Third Eye - Connexion (1977)

Embark on a sonic voyage with Third Eye’s transcendent masterpiece, “Connexion,“ a mesmerizing fusion of modal jazz, spiritual vibes, and pulsating grooves. Led by bassist Ali Haurand, this international ensemble brings together a stellar lineup of jazz luminaries to create an album that defies genre boundaries and captivates the listener from start to finish. At the helm of this musical odyssey is Jamaican saxophone legend Wilton Gaynair, whose soulful tenor and soprano saxophone melodies soar above the hypnotic rhythms laid down by Frank Köllges on drums and percussion, Rob van den Broeck on Fender Piano and Arp-Odyssey Synthesizer, and Steve Boston on congas. With Gerd Dudek adding his virtuosic saxophone and flute to the mix, the ensemble crafts a sound that is as adventurous as it is exhilarating. From the hauntingly beautiful “Maroon Dance“ to the ethereal landscapes of “Landings,“ each track on “Connexion“ takes the listener on a sonic journey that transcends time and space. The album’s intricate compositions and improvisational interplay showcase the collective genius of these seasoned musicians, while also leaving plenty of room for moments of spontaneous creativity and exploration. Recorded in 1977 at Procom Studio in Kirchhellen, Germany, “Connexion“ captures the essence of a bygone era while also pushing the boundaries of what jazz can be. With its seamless blend of Latin, African, and Brazilian influences, the album stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to unite people across cultures and continents. Originally released on the now-legendary Ring Records label in a limited edition of 600 copies, “Connexion“ quickly became a sought-after collector’s item among jazz aficionados. Now, thanks to the tireless efforts of Ekkehart Fleischhammer and Roskow Kretschmann, the album is available once again in all its glory, remastered from the original master tapes and presented in a deluxe 6-page digipack CD and limited vinyl LP format. So sit back, relax, and let the hypnotic grooves of Third Eye’s “Connexion“ transport you to a world of musical bliss. With its visionary compositions, virtuosic performances, and boundless sense of adventure, this is an album that will leave you spellbound from the very first note. //