Digitally re-mastered two-fer containing a pair of albums from the Jazz Fusion band: Caldera (1976) and Sky Islands (1977). The brainchild of guitarist Jorge Strunz, the nucleus of the band included Eduardo Del Barrio (keyboards); Steve Tavaglione (sax); Mike "Baiano" Azevedo (percussion); Carlos Vega (drums); and Dean Cortez (bass). The album Caldera (which featured the R&B-charted single, 'Out of the Blue') was produced by former member of the Crusaders, Wayne Henderson and featured primarily compositions by Strunz and Del Barrio. The group's acclaimed second album, Sky Islands, was produced by Del Barrio, Strunz and Earth, Wind & Fire keyboardist Larry Dunn (in his first outside production). in addition to Dunn as a musical guest, the album also featured a then-unknown Dianne Reeves on the title track (which she co-wrote with Dunn) and the much-revered standout cut, 'Ancient Source.' the LP achieved US chart status and has since become a classic among Jazz Fusion and Jazz Funk fans worldwide. SoulMusic.
A**S
Another Lost Treasure - Recovered!
This dual album release completes my CD collection of the four recordings that Caldera produced from 1976 - 1979. I was missing "Sky Islands" and jumped on this purchase opportunity even though I already owned an import copy of their self-titled first recording. All I can say about this group is that their intense hybrid-Latin-Jazz vibe really resonates with me. I especially like how they blend in the vocal tracks on "Sky Islands" to give us our first glimpse at future Jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves. She is exceptional on the "Ancient Source" track. You can definitely hear and feel the inspiration of Earth, Wind and Fire throughout this disc thanks to Larry Dunn's contribution. The 70's produced a lot of gems like this that took Jazz Fusion into new and exciting areas. These recordings did not get much exposure back then, but I am glad that a college friend turned me on to Caldera, Matrix and the Simon & Bard Group.Thanks Soul Music Records for releasing these recordings. You have made a lifelong music fan very happy. - PeaceA. Stan Davis
A**R
I Found This Great CD
I was Lucky Enough to See This Great Band when They were just Startingat The Lighthouse in Hermosa Beach. I do have Both Vinyl Recordsabout 40 Years Old. Time for Cd's when you can find them.
Z**M
A Loved Classic returns.
I first heard these two albums in the summer of 1977, (I had begun to become interested in Progressive music a year earlier.) Upon hearing "Caldera" & "Sky Islands" I was hooked, (perpetual lending and playing brought these albums led to an unceremonious death by the mid 1980's!) CD's were making their inroads at this time and trying to find replacements had never ceased. I had tried to look for CD reissues, (I scoured music stores from Seattle to Montréal, Central Texas, L.A. Vegas and AZ. Napster etc. but to no avail. in the intervening years I'd hyped this group, to many friends who were unaccustomed to Progressive music, (having no copy from which to refer, left my "Opinion" a little wanting.) these truly are among the finest examples of the progressive era.
T**D
50% Good Set
I love the Sky Islands CD, Which is why I purchased this duo set.
A**R
Loved their Music every since
A Friend of mine Turned me on to this group way back in high school (1979-80). Loved their Music every since. Had all of their albums awhile back, but lost them due to a fire. When capitol records folded, I was never able to find them again until now. Thanks to Amazon for helping me to finally end this long search for this Group. They will now stay in my music collection forever! Caldera is the best Latin Jazz Group I have ever heard. Their music is AWESOME!!!!!!Ollie, Los Angeles, Ca.
R**S
Great, Nostalgic Music
I first heard Caldera about 30 years ago -- I had the vinyl. It's great to have the CD.
E**O
Classic Fusion
With a world music twist. I've been waiting decades for Sky Islands to come out on CD. It is still as perfect and powerful as it was when it came out. I actually heard a Diane Reeves vocal version of Sky Islands last night. Beautiful! This CD has the bonus of including Caldara's first album as well. This really stood up to the test of time. Fusion jazz and progressive rock get a bad rap, but they are still among my favorite genres of music.
H**Z
Easy listening music
Caldera has a good melody and relaxing when you are in a peaceful mood or place
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