Other than a couple of obscure efforts for Buddah in 1970, this was percussionist
Airto's debut as a leader, and this is still his most famous record. A brass section arranged by
Don Sebesky is heard on two tracks, and such all-stars as keyboardist
Chick Corea, flutist
Hubert Laws, the reeds of
Joe Farrell, and even pianist
Keith Jarrett and guitarist
George Benson make worthwhile appearances.
Flora Purim joins
Airto in the one vocal piece ("Free"), and "Return to Forever" receives an early recording. The music combines together jazz, Brazilian music, and aspects of fusion and funk quite successfully. ~ Scott Yanow