Mahavishnu Orchestra – Apocalypse VG/VG

Apocalypse is the fourth album and third studio album by Mahavishnu Orchestra, a jazz fusion group led by guitarist John McLaughlin. It was released in April 1974 and features performances by the second line-up of the Mahavishnu Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra. The album was produced by George Martin, who regarded it as “one of the best records [he had] ever made”.

The album consists of five tracks, all composed by McLaughlin except for the lyrics to “Smile of the Beyond” which were written by his wife Eve McLaughlin. The tracks are:

• “Power of Love”: A fast and energetic piece that showcases McLaughlin’s electric guitar and Narada Michael Walden’s drums.
• “Vision Is a Naked Sword”: A long and complex piece that features Michael Tilson Thomas on piano and Michael Gibbs on orchestration.
• “Smile of the Beyond”: A beautiful and serene ballad that features Gayle Moran on vocals and harp.
• “Wings of Karma”: A rhythmic and groovy piece that features Jean-Luc Ponty on electric violin and Ralphe Armstrong on bass guitar.
• “Hymn to Him”: A majestic and epic piece that combines the Mahavishnu Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra in a cosmic finale.

Apocalypse is a remarkable album that demonstrates McLaughlin’s versatility and creativity as a composer and a musician. It is a unique fusion of jazz, rock, and classical music that will take you on a musical journey beyond the sun.