EARL KLUGH - FINGER PAINTINGS / HEART STRING / WISHFUL THINKING

A triple-header from Earl Klugh – three records that helped redefine the sound of jazz guitar at the end of the 70s! First up is Finger Paintings – a real breakout album for Earl, and the kind of record that got him on the a-list of fusion players for the rest of the 70s! The title here is especially well-chosen – as the tunes have a gently colorful feel that's never too slick, despite the tighter setting of the album – with light arrangements by Dave Grusin that still leave Earl plenty of space to work his subtle magic on the strings of the guitar. Titles include "Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow", "Summer Song", "Dance With Me", "Dr Macumba", "Long Ago & Far Away", and "Cabo Frio".

Heart String has Klugh working in this warm, mellow mode that's mighty nice – set to gentle orchestrations by Dave Matthews, which work perfect for Klugh's groove! There's nothing too over the top here, and Earl mixes acoustic and electric in a great sort of blend – using the former instrument to help keep a sort of soul to the proceedings, and never let things get too slick. Titles include "Heart String", "Spanish Night"," Pretty World", "Rayna", "Waiting For Cathy", "I'll See You Again", and "Acoustic Lady (parts 1 & 2)".

Wishful Thinking is smooth fusion from one of the greats – and although an 80s set, a record that still holds onto most of the best warmth of Earl Klugh's earlier years! The production is surprisingly laidback at points – never too many 80s gimmicks or easy attempts at a hit – and Earl plays with arrangements from Dave Matthews, Don Sebesky, and Johnny Mandel – all top-shelf talents who know best how to keep the sound in line. All tracks are Klugh originals – and tunes include "Tropical Legs", "Wishful Thinking", "A Natural Thing", "All The Time", and "The Only One For Me". ~ Dusty Groove