Description

Spyro Gyra featuring Jay Beckenstein – Fast Forward – Vinyl Record

Fast Forward is an album by the American jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra, featuring saxophonist Jay Beckenstein. It was released in 1990.

‘Fast Forward’ showcases Spyro Gyra’s signature blend of jazz, fusion, and smooth elements. The album features Beckenstein’s virtuosic saxophone playing, as well as the band’s tight ensemble work and intricate arrangements.

Spyro Gyra’s first album for MCA after their longtime label, GRP-Crescendo, was absorbed into its corporate parent, 1990’s Fast Forward carries the curious band subtitle ‘featuring Jay Beckenstein.’

Saxophonist Beckenstein has certainly always been the band’s leader, writing a good chunk of the material and producing the albums, but given that the lineup is basically unchanged from the previous few Spyro Gyra albums, the new nomenclature is puzzling.

It also goes against Spyro Gyra’s entire musical aesthetic, as the group’s unabashedly commercial and melodic style works against the traditional jazz concept of soloists and sidemen. Everyone on Fast Forward plays the melody, the whole melody, and nothing but the melody, with no improvisations or sidebars.

Notable tracks from ‘Fast Forward’ include the title track ‘Bright Lights,’ ‘Para Ti Latino,’ and ‘Ocean Parkway.’ The album highlights Spyro Gyra’s ability to combine catchy melodies, improvisational solos, and infectious rhythms, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience.

Spyro Gyra has been a prominent force in the jazz fusion scene since their formation in the 1970s. They are known for their high-energy performances, incorporating elements of jazz, funk, pop, and Latin music into their sound.

Fast Forward is among the numerous albums released by Spyro Gyra throughout their long and successful career, and it demonstrates their musical versatility and ability to push the boundaries of contemporary jazz fusion.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic plus promo cut in spine

GRP Records

Track Listing
Bright Lights
Para Ti Latino
Alexandra
Ocean Parkway
Speak Easy
Futurephobia
4md
Shadow Play
Escape Hatch
Tower Of Babel