Intents & Purposes

It’s ironic that a guitarist (arguably the lynchpin of jazz-rock) would do acoustic interpretations of ‘70s fusion tunes. But there’s no winking from Rez Abbasi (joined here by vibesman Bill Ware, bassist Stephen Crump, and drummer Eric McPherson). Instead, we have thoughtful interpretations that shed new light on these compositions. Weather Report’s “Black Market” holds up quite well, as do a slightly disorienting take on Herbie Hancock’s “Butterfly” and a ruminative version of Return to Forever’s “Medieval Overture.” Surprises range from Pat Martino’s surging “Joyous Lake” to Billy Cobham’s groovy “Red Baron.”