Catalyst were a band from West Philadelphia, who managed a strong 4 album run before calling it a game. Their music is not an easy one to describe, and requires multiple listens to penetrate. Essentially one could call this modal jazz for the funk crowd, with emphasis on the former. There are some stop-in-your-tracks melodies found here, generally noted right from the beginning of each. The longer tracks allow for some jazz soloing, and can get a bit dull in places. After hearing Side 1, it starts to feel like a slog, but after hearing the stunning 'Jabali' and the sunny-skies 'New Found Truths', the mood changes. A replay of side 1 reveals more of the essence of the recording and seems more lively throughout. Sometimes that's how it works. 'Salaam' is beautiful and it's the one track one wishes would have gone longer.
"Al" Johnson is none other than bassist Alphonso Johnson who went on to Weather Report and ultimately jazz fusion fame.
Ownership: CD: 2010 Porter (on The Complete Recordings Vol. 1). Includes their second album Perception. Digipak with recording details. One bonus track.
3/27/12 (first listen); 5/24/19 (review); 1/10/24
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