Michael de Albuquerque - We May Be Cattle But We've All Got Names 1971,art prog funk jazz rock
Featuring the fiery fretwork of Patto guitarist Ollie Halsall and an all-star cast of legendary session players including Frank Ricotti, BJ Cole, and Gerry Conway, this album is a fusion masterpiece that transcends genres. From the intricate arrangements to the soaring melodies and explosive solos, de Albuquerque's virtuosity is on full display. Galactic Ramble states: "It's always surprising, and the more it sinks in, the better it is."
Without a doubt this album is top ten material. Right there with Marvyn Gaye's What's Going On, Derek and the Dominos' Layla, the Rascals Island of Real, and just about every Steely Dan record (in case you wonder where I'm coming from). The tragedy is it's not currently available on CD. M de A was enjoying a successful studio career (a consumate guitarist, bassist and keyboard player) when he joined the ELO as bassist. This album is his repost to months of unchallenging bass riffs, and hours of struggling to teach Jeff Lynne Chuck Berry guitar lines. Featuring legendary guitarist Olly Halsall at his peak, playing at the the speed of Joe Satriani but with the soul of Peter Green, every guitarist needs to hear this record. And that's not to detract from Michael's own exquisite playing, fine singing and overall beautiful melodies.
It's very rare, but well worth the search.Crog Aug 31 2005
Tracks
1. Dribble Dribble - 0:00
2. Oh Woman - 5:21
3. Occasion - 11:33
4. We May Be Cattle But We've All Got Names - 16:38
5. Do Right - 21:01
6. My Darling Girl - 25:55
7. Sweet Mirth - 30:02
8. Catharsis - 36:01
9. Lonely - 42:27
All compositions by Michael de Albuquerque
Bonus Track 9
Musicians
*Michael d'Albuquerque - Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals
*Ollie Halsall - Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals
*Alan Skidmore - Saxophone
*B.J. Cole - Steel Guitar
*Brian Bennett - Drums
*Chris Laurence - Bass
*Chris Pine - Trombone
*David Katz - Orchestra Contractor, Violin
*Frank Ricotti - Percussion
*Gerry Conway - Drums
*Gordon Beck - Keyboards
*Henry Lowther - Trumpet
*John Taylor - Keyboards
*John Uckeridge - Trumpet
*Robin Sylvester - Bass
*Stan Sulzmann - Saxophone
