Search - Dave Grusin :: Discovered Again

An audiophile classic

J. C. Ryan | Arlington VA | 03/09/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have two copies of this LP and take them out on special occasions so they will last the rest of my life. (I play the CD of it in the meantime). This is perhaps THE LP that started the move to top quality sound and sound systems- at least it was for me. The Direct-to-Disc recording process used here eliminated most of the hiss, distortion, and general decay associated with the multi-step analogue processes for making LPs in use at the time. Straight from the microphones to the master cutting machine! No remix - each side of the album was recorded straight through with no time outs.



Beyond that, though, the life-like quality of the piano, percussion (especially the triangle on Sun Song), the vibrato of the vibraphone, makes you feel like you're getting a private performance in your living room. If you have the right equipment, there is nothing that equals this (and I mean including the fanciest digital stuff).



Grusin wrote most of the pieces here and they highlight his style - thoughtful jazz, glistening notes (he also wrote the theme music for On Golden Pond), leaning toward the minimalist rather than showing off. He lets the rest of the group have their turn, too. His group is also tops - Lee Ritenour, Harvey Mason, Ron Carter and Larry Bunker. Hard to beat.



If you like the later Grusin stuff (I have all his records), you'll love experiencing his roots in this album. And with the quality of recording approaching perfection, this record will be the gold standard forever (or close to it)."