Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Ernie Watts - Chariots Of Fire (1981)

Great album. Ernie's proficiency comes through on Chariots of Fire followed by other funk-jazz infused tracks, obviously with Quincy's production influence. A delightful listen overall! ~ Pa Colin, Amazon.com. 

On this album saxophonist Ernie Watts blows in all directions and can easily be considered one of the masterpieces of Qwest Records led by producer Quincy Jones. The theme was the title song composed by Vangelis for "Chariots of Fire" which won the Best Picture Award at the 54th Academy Awards, and arranged by Michael Omartian. Ernie is joined by some great musicians including: Keyboardists Richard Tee, Don Grusin, Greg Phillinganes; guitarists Steve Lukather, David E. Williams, bassist Neil Stubenhaus and drummer John Robinson to name a few. Overall, a disco-fusion flavoured sound that will entertain even the most discerning of listeners, Enjoy! 

Qwest Records, QW 56 982, 1982
Qwest Records, WPCR-28018, 2014
Recorded 19th-31st October, 1981 at Westlake Audio, Los Angeles, California 

Musicians:
Ernie Watts - Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Flute, Percussion, Vocals
Larry Hall - Trumpet
Jerry Hey - Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Horn Arrangements
Bill Reichenbach Jr. - Trombone, Trumpet
Don Grusin - Keyboards, Piano [Electric], Synthesizer
James Ingram - Keyboards, Rhythm & Vocal Arranger, Vocal Effect, Vocals
Michael Omartian - Keyboards, Piano, Strings, Arranger
Greg Phillinganes - Synthesizer, Synthesizer Bass
Richard Tee - Keyboards, Piano [Electric]
Ian Underwood - Synthesizer
Steve Lukather - Guitar
Carlos Rios - Guitar
David E. Williams - Guitar [Rhythm]
Neil Stubenhaus - Bass
John "J.R." Robinson - Drums
Paulinho Da Costa - Percussion
Quincy Jones - Percussion, Rhythm Arrangements
Howard Hewett, Phillip Ingram - Vocals 

Tracks:
A1. Chariots Of Fire [Theme] (Dance Version) {Vangelis} (5:55)
A2. Hold On {James Ingram, Quincy Jones} (4:25)
A3. Lady {Lionel B. Richie Jr.} (3:49)
A4. Gigolo {Quincy Jones, Merria Ross} (4:36)
B1. Valdez In The Country {Donny Hathaway} (5:14)
B2. Abraham's Theme {Vangelis} (3:46)
B3. Five Circles {Vangelis} (3:40)
B4. Chariots Of Fire [Theme] (Slow Version) {Vangelis} (4:27) 

Total Time: 35:56 

Credits:
Producer, Liner Notes - Quincy Jones
Recording & Mixing - Bruce Swedien [Acusonic]
Mastering - Bernie Grundman
Art Direction & Design - Art Sim [11:24 Design]
Photography - Bobby Holland 

UK 12" Special Dance Mix

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