Magnetic

Epic album from 1986 by Steps Ahead. Fronted by legendary saxophonist Michael Brecker they purveyed an immaculate brand of funky jazz fusion. Apart from their haunting interpretation of Ellington’s In a Sentimental Mood, the songs are original compositions; beautiful tunes beautifully performed. Memorable arrangements artfully combine electronic instruments with conventional counterparts. 35 years on the recording still sounds fresh and unfettered by studio fashion. A timeless classic.

Magnetic sounds amazingly 80s and I love it. The level of musicianship here is incredible, with top notch playing from everyone. My favourite tracks are In A Sentimental Mood, which features Michael Brecker's EWI and his playing is very expressive. Beirut is another great track which has another amazing Michael Brecker solo.It does sound very 80s and dated, but I think that's part of the charm. Highly recommended, especially if you're a Michael Brecker fan.

Heard one track of this on radio when it first came out.Never been able to get hold of it until now.So glad ive got a copy at last.

The Steps Ahead Magnetic LP is acceptable 2 track from side 1 is slight scuffed. previous owner had write his "initial" name on the cover "art work" and on the vinyl end tracks with white paint pen. not to my likings. Should not hve written any thing on the cover or vinyls to preserve "originality".

Fabulous music.

Right on time and a very good record.

A favorite

Released in the mid-80's, it has the era's sound and feel, a mix of pomp rock, synth-orchestral fills with polished soloing mixed into the whole.The talented jazz musicians who appear on the album I believe give credence to my statement.The first track, 'Trains' is a bombastic synth-driven tune, with Peter Erskine's solid drum patterns providing a rock beat as a typically fine and multiplied sax solo from Mike Brecker and squealing solo from Hiram Bullock's guitar provide two high points among the pomp. It promises much, yet by itself would be enough.'Beirut', the next track, keeps the momentum going with an understated yet funky bass line from Victor Bailey, with unsettling synth phrasing and a solo from Mike Mainieri bringing the 8 minute track to a brash close.'Cajun' follows, a straight-up be-bop rhythm with underlying banjo plucking from Peter Schwimmer and Mainieri's vibes helping to drive it along; while Brecker's mid-point solo develops into a surprising big band sax section.Next is 'In A Sentimental Mood', the Duke Ellington staple played electronically, and this leads into the track 'Magnetic Love', the one possibly created as a single, though sounding like the track for the closing credits of one of those 80's films we endured because it was all that was left in the video store.Let's move on. 'Sumo' comes next, a quirkily funky track with elements reminiscent of the Brecker skunk-funk sound. It grows on you while grating at the same time.'All The Tea In China' is a richer sounding tune, the ensemble easing you into the penultimate track; 'Something I Said', a slow, lilting tune dominated by Brecker's sax, freed from any electronic alteration, and Mainieri's synthi-vibes. Bailey's bass provides a rumbling counterpoint to the poignant sax and mellow vibes.The last track 'Reprise (Magnetic Love)' eases in, with Brecker's sax playing over the track. It lasts just over a minute (way too short!) and closes the album.