Billy Cobham

Spectrum Billy Cobham Audiophile Atlantic 75 Series edition

Billy Cobham is undoubtedly one of the greatest drummers of recent decades. As a member of the legendary Mahavishnu Orchestra, through his collaboration with Miles Davis and thanks to his inimitable playing style and impressive live performances, the American musician has earned high acclaim far beyond the jazz and rock scene. Shortly after leaving the Mahavishnu Orchestra, he released his legendary debut album “Spectrum,” which remains one of the most important and influential jazz albums of all time. Influenced by the music of the great Miles Davis, Cobham combines elements of jazz with rock and psychedelia. Funky grooves and effective guitar melodies blend harmoniously and the true soul of jazz is brought to life by Cobham's extraordinary drumming skills. “Spectrum” reached number 1 in the jazz charts worldwide and even made it to number 26 in the US album charts. Cobham's debut album became a true crossover phenomenon that had an extreme influence on the burgeoning funk/jazz and fusion movement.

“Spectrum” was recorded over three days, from May 14 to 16, 1973, at Electric Lady Studios in New York City and later remixed at Trident Studios in London. Billy Cobham also acted as producer for his Billham Cobly Productions, with Ken Scott as sound engineer. Released in the same year, “Spectrum” boasts an impressive list of contributors, including keyboardist Jan Hammer, guitarist Tommy Bolin, electric bassist Lee Sklar, Ray Barretto on congas and Ron Carter on bass.

As part of the “Atlantic 75 Series,” Analogue Productions is now honoring this fusion masterpiece with a sonically outstanding reissue, lovingly mastered by legendary sound engineer Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio: The double LP, pressed on 180-gram vinyl by industry leader Quality Record Pressings (QRP) and cut at 45 RPM, comes in a luxurious old-style tip-on gatefold double pocket jacket by Stoughton Printing.