Search - Max Middleton :: Land of Secrets

Max Middleton - Land Of Secrets

Thomas Ferrandina | 11/11/2008

(3 out of 5 stars)

"There is so little solo material of Max Middleton that when I saw this I did not hesitate to buy it. A legendary keyboardist from the early 70's with the Jeff Beck Group & through many other musical sessions including touring with guitarist Mick Taylor.



I had always felt that Max's playing and compositions enabled Jeff Beck to easily flow into the Jazz/Funk/Rock era of the early seventies. His playing in those days was not one of just an ordinary sideman, but of an his innovative and creative musician, who fully enhanced Beck's forum. His composing & playing contribution on the landmark recording of Beck's "Blow By Blow" sound as fresh today as the did 33 years ago. Sorry I can't say that about "Land Of Secrets".



I was eager to open this release and played it 3 times before I casted a firm opinion. It's a listenable recording, however does not bring out the creativeness I felt Max's had during the 1970's. Don't get me wrong, I am pleased that I bought it, but expected more.... It is difficult to find more than a few minutes of interesting melody, rhythm, arrangement, & even performance... The CD has moments, however it falls short of a unique feel I expected. I assumed great musicians like himself would branch out, not relesae a somewhat recycled recording that barely comes up to par... & with dated arrangments. Still love you Max, hope you can out do this on your next release. My recommendation is a buy for only the true fan....

"