Pierre Moerlen's Gong

Release Overview

“Downwind,” released in February 1979, marks the first studio album by Pierre Moerlen's Gong under the Arista label. This album, catalog number SPART 1080, was recorded during the summer and autumn of 1978 at Matrix Studios in London and Througham Slad, Gloucestershire. The album is a blend of jazz and rock, often classified within the fusion genre.

Musical Composition

The album features intricate arrangements that combine high-energy mallet percussion with Latin-rock rhythms. Pierre Moerlen leads the ensemble on drums, vibraphone, and marimba, while also contributing synthesizers and lead vocals. Hansford Rowe plays both bass guitar and acoustic bass, adding depth to the sound. Ross Record provides electric and acoustic guitar, alongside vocals. Benoit Moerlen enhances the album with additional vibraphone work, while François Causse adds marimba and congas. The album's standout track is the title piece “Downwind,” co-produced by Moerlen and Mike Oldfield, who also plays guitars and bass on the track.

Guest Appearances

“Downwind” features an impressive array of guest musicians. Mike Oldfield and Steve Winwood contribute to the title track, with Winwood playing synthesizers. Mick Taylor, formerly of the Rolling Stones, delivers a notable guitar solo on “What You Know.” Didier Lockwood, a prominent figure in jazz fusion, lends his electric violin skills to three tracks, including “Crosscurrents” and “Emotions.” Additionally, Didier Malherbe adds tenor saxophone to “Downwind,” and Terry Oldfield plays flute on the same track.

Track Highlights

The album opens with “Aeroplane,” a melodic introduction that sets the tone for the fusion journey ahead. “Crosscurrents” showcases fluid improvisation, while “Jin-Go-Lo-Ba” presents a vibrant fusion adaptation of Babatunde Olatunji's work. The closing track, “Xtasea,” rounds out the album with an energetic performance that encapsulates the band’s diverse styles.

Technical Details

“Downwind” was produced by Pierre Moerlen, alongside contributions from Mike Oldfield and engineer Nick Bradford. The recording process took place at two notable locations in the UK, Matrix Studios and Througham Slad. The album's unique sound is further enhanced by the use of various synthesizers, including Oberheim and Korg models, as well as traditional percussion instruments.

“Downwind” was released in February 1979 under the Arista label.