Traffic - When The Eagle Flies (Island 1974) 24-bit/96kHz Vinyl Rip

This album is usually under-rated even by fans of the band. It is no wonder, because Traffic split after its release and the fact that it came out after the series of excellent albums (John Barleycorn, Low Spark and Shoot Out). But, repeated listening unveils some wonderful moments, particularly the trio of "Dream Gerrard", "Graveyard people" and "Walking in the Wind", which could have fit on any of the above mentioned highlights. The sound is even more close to jazz rock than on previous efforts, with considerable soul and blues moments. Winwood adds several nice synthesizer solos (Moog?) and Mellotron sounds, while the newcomer Gee plays a funky/reggae style of bass, very rhythmic and melodic. Capaldi is on top form as drummer and lyricist, while Wood again shows that he was one of the most neglected sax players in the rock world, playing with a confident jazz-attitude and using electronic effects. Prog Archives

Traclkisting:

A1. Something New

A2. Dream Gerrard

A3. Graveyard People

B1. Walking In The Wind

B2. Memories Of A Rock n' Rolla

B3. Love

B4. When The Eagle Flies

All written by Steve Winwood & Jim Capaldi except
A2. by Steve Winwood & Vivian Stanshall

Please note: the mastering on this LP (by Sterling Sound NY) is wonderful.
But, as you may hear, the quality of the vinyl used by EMI leaves a lot to be desired!