Jean-Luc Ponty - Enigmatic Ocean (1977)

Consistently imaginative, Enigmatic Ocean is one of Jean-Luc Ponty's finest accomplishments. The French violinist recorded his share of fusion gems during the 1970s, and this album is at the top of the list. Often aggressive but sometimes reflective and moody, this LP is as unpredictable as it is adventurous. Ponty has plenty of room to stretch out, let loose, and blow, and electric guitarists Allan Holdsworth and Daryl Stuermer contribute some inspired solos as well. Also quite impressive is the insightful and passionate drumming of Steve Smith, who went on to lead the superb fusion band Vital Information. Ponty takes one risk after another, and all of them pay off beautifully.

by Alex Henderson, allmusic

Tracklist:

A1 Overture
A2 The Trans-Love Express
A3 Mirage
A4 Enigmatic Ocean (12:02)
A4a Part I 2:20
A4b Part II
Guitar [Solo] – D. Stuermer, A. Holdsworth
A4c Part III
Guitar [Solo] – A. Holdsworth
A4d Part IV
B1 Nostalgic Lady
Guitar [Solo] – A. Holdsworth
B2 The Struggle Of The Turtle To The Sea (13:10)
B2a Part I
B2b Part II
B2c Part III
Guitar [Solo] – D. Stuermer, A. Holdsworth