Interesting that I've been absorbing tons of American jazz funk and fusion, when along comes this old chestnut from Spain. This isn't my first encounter with the album, as I was introduced to it when I first discovered (back in the early 90s) bands such as Iceberg, Ananga Ranga (Portugal), Secta Sonica, Musica Urbana, Companyia Electrica Dharma, and many others. It was too much at once, and many of them didn't make the first cut. Today, I hear this album with a different perspective. One that combines the aforementioned American fusion scene with that of Spanish culture. It's a winning combination, and Borne balances those two aspirations expertly. In particular, guitarist Victor Molero is enjoying the spotlight, and his rougher edged solos are much welcomed in an oftentimes all too sterile genre. It's not unfair to suggest Borne has tapped into the same well as Al Di Meola did on his classic first 3 albums. To American eyes, seeing the cover and a title that looks like something esoteric such as "Experimental Orange", it's a bit disappointing to learn that it simply means "squeeze the orange". OK. In any case, essential listening for all fusion fans who appreciate an edge, along with some indigenous melodies and sounds.Ownership: 1979 Chapa Discos (LP). Gatefold.
1994 (first listen); 4/11/21 (review / new entry)
