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: 1975 ECM USA (2xLP). Reacquired in 2022. First purchased in 1986.1986; 12/21/22 (review)
Like with John Abercrombie's Timeless, I thought I'd already heard Rypdal's 3rd solo album What Comes After. But this listen confirmed that I had not. One of his more abstract works, the album is very spacious and a bit on the noirish side. Great for late night solo listening. There's a bass heavy focus, while Rypdal adds plenty of atmospheric electric guitar. Fine album if in the right mood - which apparently I was.Former ownership: 1974 ECM USA (LP). Acquired in 2021. Downsized in 2026.12/18/21 (review)
Also own: To Be Continued
Once owned: Whenever I Seem To Be Far Away; Terje Rypdal / Miroslav Vitous / Jack DeJohnette; To Be Continued; Chaser
All the above are fine albums, and some I'd like to hear again.
12/18/21 (new entry)
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