Journey to Love by Stanley Clarke (CD, Jan-1989, Epic USA)

I don't recall how this album found it's way into my album collection in the late 70's. Once it was played, it was definitely noticed and became one of those rare musical collaboration that transcends time with art. Stanley Clarkes' incredible precision and speed on his instrument would , by themselves, make this work very worthy of any mucic collectors' library. But, captured in time like an ant in amber is the transitional "coming of age" of immortal guitar legend, Jeff Beck in his metamorphosis to Jazz fusion. His rocked-out interplay with Chick Corea and Lenny White on "Hello Jeff" still quickens my pulse today, after thirty years. For all lovers of Jeff Beck, this album should be included in a catagory next to "Wired" and "Blow by Blow".
The albums' production is top notch in every department from overall dynamics to horn arrangement and vocals. Stanley Clarkes' hand in this production definitely showcases his incredible musical taste and discrimination.
Even the more eclectic parts of this album with an upright bowed bass and John McLaughlins' Mahavishnu Orchestra are masterfully arranged in such a manner as to take the listener to a world beyond this one.