American jazz fusion can run the gamut from being overtly cheesy to incredibly interesting, and Spyro Gyra’s 1979 album Morning Dance checks both of those boxes (sometimes in the same song). Blending elements of R&B, jazz, and funk along with virtuostic performances from as many as 10 musicians on an individual song, the band zips through jazz-inspired arrangements that reference the pop sensibilities of yacht rock in the best of moments, and a sort of off-Broadway dramaticism at its worst. The band’s propensity to take risks and send it every song is what makes it fun and ultimately rewarding, even when the jazz tropes feel a little too ham-handed. Come for the eclecticism and stay for the high notes– they’re worth it.
Standout Songs: “Morning Dance”, “Jubilee”, “It Doesn’t Matter”
