Steps Ahead-Magnetic (1986)

This is another gem of the jazz fusion genre, created by one of the most famous jazz-rock groups of the 1980s, a band that masterfully combined the fundamentals of jazz with R&B and other musical genres, driven by the massive use of electronic instruments. In this fourth release, in addition to band leader Mike Mainieri (vibraphone), the lineup includes Michael Brecker (saxophone), Peter Erskine (drums), Chuck Loeb (guitar), Hiram Bullock (guitar), and Victor Bailey (bass), among other important American jazz-rock musicians such as singer Dianne Reeves and percussionist Joe Chambers. Despite the rejection from jazz purists, due to the wide fusion of styles in this work, where fusion completely dominates every groove of the record, the instrumental skills of Michael Brecker, the precision of Mike Mainieri, and the talent of musicians like Chuck Loeb and Victor Bailey are also noteworthy. Tracks like "Cajun", "Beirut", "Trains", "Magnetic Love" or the magnificent version of Duke Ellington's classic "In A Sentimental Mood", make up one of the most enjoyable jazz fusion albums of the eighties.