Jeff Beck
Wired

We are in 1976: Jeff Beck, the virtuoso six-stringer who for almost a decade has been making history with the rock guitar first with the Yardbirds and then with the group bearing his name, in this year seeks to replicate the success of "Blow by Blow", a solo album considered as one of the high points of his career. He attempts with a new and ambitious fusion music album: "Wired".

On this occasion, he is accompanied by a very respectable lineup, consisting of his friend, keyboardist Max Middleton (present in the already mentioned "Jeff Beck Group"), the rhythm machine Wilbur "Bad" Bascomb on bass, and two historic members of the Mahavishnu Orchestra, namely Jen Hammer (also on keyboards and synths) and drummer Michael Narada Walden.

The band's chemistry is sensational, since Jeff allows each of his teammates to express themselves to the fullest of their abilities; right from the opening track "Led Boots" (a syncopated homage to his friend Page's Zeppelin and a great classic of JB's live performances), the group showcases an intense drive, great preparation, and creativity.

Speaking of Jeff: it's ironic that in this album our brilliant guitarist brings out some of the most beautiful melodies he has ever composed, one of the most expressive tones ever from his instrument, yet he is forced to take a backseat to the incredible rhythm section of Bascomb and Walden, who dive numerous times into sections rich with groove, vivid and engaging ("Come Dancing", "Play With Me").

We find more relaxing moments in the rendition of Charles Mingus's jazz standard "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat", in the sweet "Love is Green" and in the melodic "Sophie", but in general the album is characterized by funk, blues rock, and jazz-fusion sounds that are at times decidedly pyrotechnic (the influence of the Mahavishnu members is strongly felt in this regard).

If "Wired" does not manage to reach the diversity of its predecessor or have the same impact, it surely succeeds in carving out a prestigious spot in the English guitarist's discography, thanks to its enviable lineup and many profound tracks.