Al Ross & The Planets

Blue Crystal

AFR/Wienerworld, 2021

9/10

Listen to Blue Crystal

On this sophomore album, Al Ross holds down bass and vocals and brings along David Brammer (sax), Terry Mascall (drums), Alex Mungo (backing vocals), Julian Mungo (acoustic guitar) and Marc Rapson (keys) to an extremely eclectic listen where the long running London outfit tweak pop, soul, blues, gospel and even Samba-ish grooves in their inimitable formula.

“Crossroads” starts the listen with graceful piano alongside soulful singing as the climate builds into a fuller, gospel delivery that’s quite soothing, and “Something Changed My Mind” follows with flowing melodies, where country influences are complemented by skilled Hammond organ.

The title track occupies the middle spot, and leads bare and pretty before making its way into grittier territory with firm guitar and subtle saxophone, while “In The Middle Of The Night” mixes bluesy ideas amid a gospel choir as Rapson’s key work truly shines.

“Checkin’ Out The Vibe”, the best tune present, lands near the end and displays a fusion rocker, where brass, keys, guitars and Ross’ rugged yet tuneful pipes guide the upbeat landscape that tips its hat to classic rock, and ‘Sweet Memories Of You” exits the listen and leads in piano balladry but ends up flirting with prog-rock in the dreamy, textured finish.

Recorded at the seminal Abbey Road Studios and with some esteemed session players helping out, too, some serious hurdles presented themselves to Ross and company during the process, namely Covid. Travel restrictions, members getting sick, and endless safety protocols threatened to derail the band’s efforts, but instead they captured the energy of their live show and documented the chemistry they’ve been refining since their inception in 1983.

Travels well with: Lee Ritenour- Dream Catcher; Ellen Foley- Fighting Words