Album Liner Notes
One of a Kind
If Feels Good to Me is the ignition point, One of a Kind is the sound of the band tightening the screws. The writing is more focused, the ensemble identity is stronger, and Jeff Berlin is now embedded in the group's DNA rather than appearing as a standout guest presence.
Overview
This record shows Berlin as a compositional force inside advanced fusion, not only a virtuoso instrumentalist. His writing credit on 'Five G' shows how quickly he became central to the band's identity.
The album also captures the balance that made this era work: complex enough for players to obsess over, but still direct enough to feel like a band record instead of a clinic.
It shows Jeff Berlin inside an ensemble that was evolving fast and trusting him with more than bass chair duties.
Quick Snapshot
- Released in 1979 as the second Bruford studio album.
- Jeff Berlin is credited on bass and as a co-writer of 'Five G'.
- Wikipedia cites strong critical marks including 4.5 stars from AllMusic.
Berlin in the writing
Jeff Berlin shares writing credit on 'Five G', which says a lot about his role by this point.
Critically respected
Wikipedia references strong reviews from AllMusic, DownBeat, and The Penguin Guide to Jazz.
Fusion with bite
AllMusic's cited review frames it as fusion with a healthy dose of rock, which fits the album well.
Listen For
Five G
The obvious Berlin focal point: co-written, muscular, and rhythmically alive.
The Abingdon Chasp
Holdsworth's sole writing contribution gives the record one of its most famous pieces.
The Sahara of Snow
A two-part closing statement that reinforces how cinematic this band could sound.