Recorded in May 1979
Vitous is an extraordinary bassist, and First Meeting is a terrific record by a powerful band.
Vitous is probably still best-known for his stint in the first incarnation of Weather Report. Perhaps less well remembered is the fact that Vitous was one of three co-founders of the band, along with Joe Zawinul and Wayne Shorter. They actually considered naming the group Triumvirate.
Turning to First Meeting: When John Surman picks up his soprano, one can't help but think of this group as a sort of reconfigured Weather Report with Vitous in the sole leadership role. But regardless of his intentions, the music is wonderful.
This is a great record, and one that represents the best aspects of the ECM style in the 1970s. Not dreamy or understated, the program features real compositions and strong interplay among the players. Surman is perfect for this setting, as is Christiansen. The surprise is the American Kenny Kirkland on piano. But it all works, on every track.
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