Released: 1975

Genre: Fusion-jazz

From: US

Label: Marlin

Why you should listen: John Tropea is a jazz guitarist from New York City. He’s worked previously with the likes of Brazilian legend Eumir Deodato, who he toured and recorded with, Van Morrison, Dionne Warwick, Billy Cobham, Eric Clapton and John Lennon, among others. I bought his 1975 debut Tropea on vinyl not too long ago and played it for the first time the other week at my friend’s place, and was blown away by the grooves and funky guitar leads that shaped the sound, melody and most importantly energy, of the album. From the light and almost disco-inspired opener “Tambourine” to reflective closer “Dreams”, the talented guitarist and composer is able to create a mesmerising, and captivating body of work from start to finish. The heavier and more emphatic compositions on “7th Heaven” are funky and atmospheric, with rhythmic changes throughout that keep the track engaging and infectious. “The Jingle” has an upbeat groove with incredible keyboard playing from Kenny Ascher, who brings the fire, along with the emphatic drumming and guitar leads that make this one a memorable listen. The reflective and atmospheric “Just Blue” has this cool and groovy guitar melodies that add to the rhythmic drumming and basslines throughout the track, with a playful tone that is groovy and infectious. “Muff” and “Cisco Disco” are both colourful and upbeat cuts on the album, while the meandering guitar leads on “The Bratt” are hypnotic as well. John Tropea’s debut album was quite the listening experience for me and my friend. Both of us were geeking out at the beautifully arranged compositions and the knack for pure experimentation on the album with the help of some incredibly talented musicians around him.

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