Pop Workshop - Song Of The Pterodactyl (1974 Sweden). Interesting all-star fusion band including Janne Schaffer and Tony Williams. Definitely a Coltrane-ish jazz album with strong overtones of Mahavishnu era fusion and Herbie Hancock “Headhunters” funk. A nice mix and not too far from that other Swedish based jazz rock ensemble Ablution, though I found that one to be more unique. Those that like the early 70s jazz fusion sound, will most certainly enjoy this release. On the same label as the recommended Ibis album. Borderline 11 quality, though it’s just a bit too predictable to give it such a high recommendation. Never reissued on CD
Le Grande Nebuleux - Les Pirates du Cortex (1978 France). Interesting and complex jazz rock album with some freer structures. It tends to get a bit shreiky in the sax department and the compositions stray towards the unhinged. But that’s not to say their aren’t some stellar moments as well. Rhythm section is super tight, and the guitar playing sometimes has an acidic tone, which is more than welcome. Best track, and at complete odds with the rest of the material, is a mellow hand-percussion / flute piece with quirky French voices. Had the album been more composed and less improvised, it would’ve been a monster. As it stands, it’s still quite good. Never reissued on CD.
Cortex - Le Troupeau Bleu (1975 France). A very fascinating jazz funk record. While not the most sophisticated album you’ll ever hear, it absolutely kills with breezy melodies, tribal/funky drumming and the soft/seductive French female vocals. The title track is sublime. Sits somewhere between the Belgian Canterbury Zeuhl group Cos and the more creative efforts of the NYC disco act Chic. Nice driving bass and electric piano. There’s a legit LP reissue, and I’ve seen reference to the CD, but have never actually seen one for sale. So it remains unissued as far as I’m concerned. Second album “Volume 2″, also recommended, is available on CD.