Joshua Bell, Treasure Dub Vol. 1, Placebo and the soundtracks Chicago The 1997 Musical London Cast and The Man with the Iron Fists.
Placebo's eponymous third album is glossy, elaborate Benelux Jazz-Rock which could be labelled Library music as well - having themes that could easily accompany a cult 70's detective series. Its seductive rhythms, combined with tasteful arrangements, make this LP difficult to walk away from. The grooves go deeper compared to their earlier works and the solos are intense and unique.
The 1973 album continues in the same vein as Ball of Eyes, though it's definitely funkier and head boppin' than the debut. The real-ear grabber is the superb Moog soloing by Moulin. Placebo is grooving your socks off in the first half of the album and a more concentrated jazzy swing can be found on the second half. Original copies of 1973 are in short supply and overwhelming demand, making this official reissue a much-needed one!
Placebo's debut LP Ball of Eyes is a remarkably focused Soul Jazz record, without the experimentation or Free Jazz moments which were still in vogue during the first half of the '70s. Excellent covers of Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues" and Sam & Dave's "You Got Me Hummin'" as well as his own compositions make Ball Of Eyes a perfect example of the genius of Marc Moulin and his incredible band.
21-09-2018
