Mike Pinera - Isla. 1978 Capricorn (LP). When I found this album in the 25 cent bin recently, I said to myself that I know this name but cannot remember why. Oh, that's right, he was the guy who shared the marquee with Iron Butterfly on their final first phase album. I couldn't tell you anything about his contributions there, an album I didn't exactly praise too highly. His recording career is quite extensive, beyond his own solo works. He's also the guy behind the label Illusion, which is filled with collectable titles. When deciding if I wanted to waste valuable time listening to this album (a beauty of a copy too), I read it was Yacht Rock. Like many of my generation, I have a sort of fondness for the cruise ship era, even if it was just a tad before my own high school years. And you know, the tag definitely fits. It's definitely rock oriented, not a cover-up for smooth jazz funk. Pinera plays a pretty mean guitar too. It seems he's on the verge of being the next Frank Marino, before jumping back onto the boat. Love the period synthesizers, and even some old fashioned organ can be heard. Good head boppin' and toe tappin' music. Were this a private release - say on the Illusion label haha - then it would be an easy three figure album. But alas, it's not. (4/6)
Azteca - Pyramid of the Moon. 1973 CBS Netherlands (LP). I've had this LP since 2003, and I don't think I've heard it again until today. During that period, my interest in Latin Rock has shot up considerably. Especially considering bands like Malo, Naked Lunch, Sapo, and Sincerely Antique. I was very familiar with Chango and Dakila back then, and I think it would have been unfair to expect every Santana influenced group to sound like those two. Even before owning this LP I had the debut on CD. It never clicked and I sold it off many years ago. In hearing Pyramid of the Moon I can understand why I did that. This isn't the raucous sound we've become accustomed to from the early 70s. Definitely more Latin soul influenced. Not to suggest there aren't moments of goodness here. Would have loved to hear more guitar from Neal Schon, as but one example, but he only guests on one track. Overall it's a smooth and commercial sound. Comparisons to Sergio Mendes wouldn't be unfair, from a glossy sound standpoint. Not something I need to hold onto at this stage. (2/17)
Offenbach. A&M (CD) (1977). Montreal's Offenbach is one of those groups that I've read about since the 1980s but never actually heard. This self-titled album is their 6th release. What you get here is nine short blues rock tracks with grungy guitar not much different from early ZZ Top. Most tracks mix in old fashioned rock n' roll, and couple of creative bits including organ and flute. Too straightforward overall for me though. (1/24)
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