A funky fusion classic! Second Direction are certainly not a household name – and the record has even more obscure origins than most, given that it was originally done as a small sound library project. Yet the quality of the set has given it a surprisingly wide reach with collectors and groove hounds over the years – thanks to the sharp rhythms and sweet blend of electric elements in the music! The combo mixes Latin rhythms with modal electric playing – very much in the mode of some of the best MPS work of the time, or the hipper corners of the Euro fusion scene – never too rockish and jamming, and with a great blend of the sax and flute of leader Fritz Munzer – plus the keyboards of Karl Heinz Merkel – both working with tight rhythms that often include lots of great congas. Titles include "Steamer", "Flying Carpet Ride", "Blue Dilemma", "Peace", "Storm Flute", and "Freeland". This great version also includes bonus tracks from the group's unreleased second album – Steps Ahead – seven more titles that include "Keep Going", "Tony's Choice", "Last Minute", "Steps Ahead", "Feeling Free", and "Moving Fantasy". (Jazz, Sound Library) CD