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Bob Holz A Vision Forward Review by Gary Hill This is a fusion album that leans on the mainstream jazz end of the equation. We generally land fusion under prog, though, so that's where this goes. Whatever you call this, it's an effective set of music. Among the musicians with drummer Bob Holz on this release are notables such as Larry Coryell, Randy Brecker and Mike Stern. This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) form in Music Street Journal: 2021 Volume 3. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2021.

Track by Track Review

Moving Eyes This launches right into it and quickly shifts toward a melodic fusion texture that makes me think of things like Spyro Gyra. This is a classy tune that makes a great opener.

A Vision Forward There is some funk in the mix here. This thing is another classy tune. There is a cool keyboard dominated break later in the track.

Harper This classy jazz piece features some exceptional guitar soloing. Other instruments get the chance to show off in style, too.

Avalon Canyon I love the cool jazz groove of this number. The tune works really well. As good as the guitar work has been on the previous cuts, it really excels here. This is such a powerhouse tune.

Mighty Mojo This is definitely a highlight of the set. It has a powerful rocking motif to it. All the musicians seem to really be on fire here. I love the funky bass break, too. There are parts of this that even make me think of Deep Purple just a little.

Yes We Can A mellower, jazz groove is on display here, bringing a lot of style and charm with it. There is some pretty interesting bass work on this, and the cut has a real blues ballad vibe to it.

Shared Sunsets A fairly mellow concept is in the driver's set on this one. I really love some of the guitar work on this number. Then again, the whole tune oozes class.

Shooting Range This reminds me a little of the electronic era of Herbie Hancock, but with a more standard fusion basis. The jamming is sometimes angular and always brilliant here. This is one of the highlights of the disc.

The Stand Up I love the tasty jazz groove on this tune. There is some serious funk at points, and the number makes good use of changes in intensity and mood throughout. Everyone puts in a great performance on this thing.

Spent Flowers I love some of the guitar work on this so much. The whole tune has a jazz arrangement that's pure class.

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