Search - David Earle Johnson :: Time Is Free

Underrated jazz-rock fusion

Nate Olmos | Los Angeles, CA | 12/30/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

""Time is Free" was the first of two collaborations between percussionist David Earle Johnson and ex-Mahavishnu Orchestra keyboardist Jan Hammer. Released in 1978, around the tail end of jazz-rock fusion's heyday, Hammer's synthesizer pyrotechnics (and drumming) and Johnson's percussion flurries combine to create a rhythmically- and sonically-textured album.What sets "Time is Free" apart from the usual fusion dreck being released then are the excellent compositions (primarily written by Johnson, along with a few collaborations with Hammer) and the empathy between both musicians, which is evident throught the entire album. "Grandma's House" rocks out with a memorable heavy riff played on the Moog, followed by an entertaining, if at times over-the-top, synth solo by Hammer before settling into a funky percussion duet between Hammer's drums and Johnson's congas and timbales. "Ramtide" is a percussive slugfest with Hammer and Johnson trading blows. What also makes "Time is Free" such an interesting album is the way Johnson and Hammer try their hand at various musical styles and make them work, which reflects the consistency of the album. Tunes such as "Sea, Sand and Sun" and "Skin, Long and Street Suite" show a sure grasp of Latin rhythms, from the salsa rhythms of the former to the Brazilian freneticism of the latter. The display of textures ranging from lush and moody to intense and danceable also adds to the album's appeal."Time is Free" is one of those albums that stand out like diamonds in the rough. It has its own unique charm."