| Jazz |
It is not always easy to find this LP that has not yet been reissued, however, if you come across an original 1977 version, just a few years before the release of the first CD, you will notice that the audio quality had significantly improved compared to the early 1970s. “In Flight” is a jazz album infused with disco rhythms, showcasing the genius guitar and vocal skills of George Benson. This album features the track “Nature Boy,” which has been somewhat tarnished by various European jazz singers, more or less talented, as you can hear, for example, on certain albums from the ACT label. My favorite track on this album remains “The World is A Ghetto,” which resonates with my feelings when I used to live in France. Since then, I have been much better, thank you.
George Benson is undoubtedly one of the greatest artists of the twentieth century, who brought a modern vision to jazz in his own distinctive style. Often imitated, never equaled. On this album, we have Benson on guitar and vocals, Phil Lipmurch on rhythm guitar, Ronnie Foster on piano and Mini-Moog. For those who may not be familiar with that era, the Mini-Moog was the first synthesizer, well before Yamaha’s DX7 or Roland’s Juno. Jorge Dalto contributes on Clavinet and piano, Stanley Banks on bass, Ralph MacDonald on drums, and it was produced by Tommy LiPuma.
Track Listing:
A1 – Nature Boy (5:58) A2 – The Wind And I (5:04) A3 – The World Is A Ghetto (9:41)
B1 – Gonna Love You More (4:37) B2 – Valdez In The Country (4:29) B3 – Everything Must Change (8:07)
Listening to this album is like immersing oneself in that joyful period from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, a time when one felt free and believed that anything was possible. This sentiment is particularly evident in George Benson’s music. Each of us has a favorite track by this artist that lingers in our minds, as he has left an indelible mark on generations with the gentleness and generosity of his art.
Another aspect to love about this album is the prominent role of the guitar, allowing us to fully appreciate the talent of this artist. “In The Night” is one of the best-selling jazz albums of its time; it achieved platinum status. A collector’s item for enthusiasts, let’s hope that Warner will provide a reissue soon, with today’s mastering techniques. That would truly be great news!
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, August 9th 2023
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