Phil Collins sat out on the sessions that produced MASQUES, Brand X's 1978 entry in the almost-forgotten early fusion-era sweepstakes. MASQUES rocks a bit heavier than the previous MOROCCAN ROLL, but still offers delightful dense passages of jazz, rock, funk, complex arrangements, and tight ensemble playing.
"The Poke" is pretty straightforward prog-jazz riffing, with an arresting synth melody and thorny basswork from Percy Jones (John Goodsall is no slouch on guitar, either). "Black Moon" allows percussionist Morris Pert to break out his arsenal of percussive sundries, sprinkling them across a late-night jazzy etude. The fireworks really erupt throughout "Access to Data," where Goodsall lets loose a fusillade of sparkling guitar riffs, while quacking keyboards react to the amplified overload. MASQUES is another important chapter in British jazz-fusion history for the uninitiated to explore.
Recording information: Trident Studios, London, England (05/1978-06/1978).
Photographer: Chris Kutschera.
Brand X: Morris Pert, Percy Jones, Peter Robinson, Chuck Burgi, John Goodsall.
Personnel: John Goodsall (guitar); Morris Pert (piano, percussion); Peter Robinson (keyboards); Chuck Burgi (drums).
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