STYLE: Jazz RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 29013-17487 LABEL: Sparrow SPD1116 FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1 RRP: £4.99
Reviewed by Mike Rimmer
'Frontline' was the third album for the band formed in 1980 and reflected a style of jazz funk akin to more commercially successful artists like Weather Report, Alphonse Mouzon, Lee Ritenour and The Crusaders. Koinonia's line up featured some of the era's top session musos including bassist Abraham Laboriel, drummer Bill Maxwell, guitarist Hadley Hockensmith and woodwind virtuoso Justo Almario. The combination of sheer talent and imagination always made Koinonia albums a joy and 'Frontline' was no exception. From the funky workout of "Chuncho" to the rockier vibe of the title cut or the easy listening feel of "Greatest Love", it always felt as though the band could turn their hand to anything. Other highlights were the Laboriel penned "Senor", a rare song featuring vocals while the opening groove of "Gazoot" is another gem.
The opinions expressed in this article are
not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed
views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may
not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a
later date.
Interested in reviewing music? Find out
more here.