Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.

Still WarmJohn Scofield

John Scofield-Still Warm

When it comes to jazz guitarists with such a distinctive tone that you can tell who’s playing from just one listen, John Scofield comes to mind.

The album he released in 1986, before his individuality fully exploded, is Still Warm.

The title track, Still Warm, is a laid-back piece characterized by floating chords and a smooth sound, and the phrases—underpinned by John’s unique sense of rhythm that was evident even back then—are seriously cool.

Take Me to the Mardi GrasBob James

Bob James – Take Me To The Mardi Gras (audio)

“Take Me To The Mardi Gras” is a track included on American pianist Bob James’s album Two.

The song was originally composed by Paul Simon and is known for its acoustic, unadorned charm.

In Bob James’s version, the vocal melody is played on a Rhodes piano with a wah effect, and combined with master drummer Steve Gadd’s tight groove, it turns into a very funky rendition.

HopoponoGoGo Penguin

GoGo Penguin – Hopopono (Official Video) [Gondwana Records]

Formed in Manchester, UK in 2009, GoGo Penguin captivate many music fans with a sound that, while taking the form of a traditional piano trio, truly “fuses” jazz, electronica, and classical music.

A track from their acclaimed album v2.

0, released in March 2014, seems to epitomize that musicality.

Chris Illingworth’s piano sometimes delivers minimal phrases reminiscent of Ahmad Jamal, interwoven with electronica-derived rhythms and Nick Blacka’s powerful bass lines, creating a unique sense of weightless flow and driving momentum.

The album v2.

0, which includes this track, was highly praised and was even nominated for the Mercury Prize that same year.

It’s perfect not only as a companion for a drive, but also as background music when you want to focus—this work will surely create a wonderful atmosphere.

Be sure to experience their music as they explore new forms of jazz.

Survival ImperativeJustin Stanton

Survival Imperative

Survival Imperative, a fusion track by American musician Justin Stanton.

Released in 2019, it could be counted among the latest fusion numbers.

Compared to the fusion boom of the 1970s, the sound is even clearer, the electronic instruments more diverse, and you can feel an infinite interweaving of sounds.

Race With Devil On Spanish HighwayAl Di Meola

Al Di Meola Race With The Devil On a Spanish Highway 1977

A fusion guitarist I’d recommend to fans of hard rock and metal is Al Di Meola.

His lightning-fast phrases, delivered with impeccably precise picking, really stand out even in the fusion world.

A track where you can fully enjoy his playing is Race With Devil On Spanish Highway from his 1977 album Elegant Gypsy.

The barrage of hard-edged riffs and high-speed lines is an absolute thrill to listen to!

THE LOW SPARK OF HIGH HEELED BOYSTraffic

TRAFFIC – THE LOW SPARK OF HIGH-HEELED BOYS – The Low Spark Of High-Heeled Boys (1971) :: SOTW #22

Traffic is a fusion band also known for having British blues-rock musician Steve Winwood as a member.

“The Low Spark of High-Heeled Boys” is the title track of an album released in 1971, and unusually for fusion, it’s a vocal number.

That said, its groovy performance and the players’ individual improvisations make it very much a quintessential fusion sound.

Is It You?Lee Ritenour

Is It You? – Lee Ritenour featuring Eric Tagg (1981)

“Is It You?” is a collaborative track by fusion guitarist Lee Ritenour and singer Eric Tagg.

The album Rit, which features this song, also includes several other vocal tracks and is the most AOR-leaning work in his catalog.

With Ritenour’s tight, song-serving guitar interweaving with Tagg’s sweet vocals over a crisp groove, it’s an irresistible tune for AOR fans.