I first found this album while still in college in the middle 80s. It just wasn't for me at the time. In reacquiring the album and hearing it for the first time in over 25 years, I can understand why. I was expecting a more active jazz rock / fusion, fields of music I was just getting into in my early 20s. That's not what Odyssey is about. It's a sprawling double album made up of primarily late night noirish jazz. The kind that is usually the sole reserve of the saxophone. But Rypdal substitutes his electric guitar and it's thick, rich, and wonderful to hear. As mellow as it comes but with an acidic tone that gives it a back end bite. Also worth pointing out are the longer tracks that feature hypnotic bass and drums. This aspect recalls Joe Henderson or Miles Davis. Or even fellow Norwegians Tangle Edge, who would apply this same technique many years later but for the psychedelic jam audience. Odyssey is an investment of time, and is best taken in on a quiet peaceful evening.
Ownership: LP: 1975 ECM (USA). 2xLP gatefold. Recent acquisition from Dr. Boom (2022). The first copy referenced above was picked up in 1986 at Ralph's in Lubbock, and I sold it sometime in the 90s. The gatefold is appropriately minimalistic, adding to the allure. Interesting to note that Discogs' stock LP has a cut corner. That's exactly how my first copy was. Fortunately this one does not.
12/21/22 (new entry)
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