L.A. session great
David Garfield formed
Karizma as a creative outlet in 1979. The group released four studio recordings that were mostly popular in fusion hotbeds, such as Europe and Japan, and very difficult to find in the States. This live recording reunites
Garfield with original guitarist
Michael Landau, former member
Vinnie Colaiuta (drums), and fusion veteran Neil Stubenhaus (bass). The energetic selections are a balance of original material and cover tunes, including
Weather Report's "Palladium" and
Don Grolnick's "Nothing Personal," and all are played with their trademark fervor. Guitarist
Landau's sonic explorations are a nice counterpoint to
Colaiuta's acrobatic drumming, while
Garfield shifts from style to style with ease. While not intended to be a drum-centric recording,
Colaiuta dominates the performances and proves why he has such a legendary reputation. Fusion fans and drummers are encouraged to indulge in the not-so-guilty pleasures offered by
Karizma. ~ Robert Taylor