[Hidden Gem] Zbigniew Namyslowski/Air Conditioning Follow Your Kite

I've always associated Namyslowski with the folk-tinged fusion of Kujaviak Goes Funky, or the experimentally-tinged bop of Winobranie or the Zbigniew Namyslowski Quartet.

But I came across this release while flicking through records in a record store during a recent visit to Poland. I'd never heard of it, but since the group's name, Air Conditioning, immediately signalled fusion to me, I bought it.

The album consists of six pieces in a lighter fusion style, occasionally touching on funk, with even some smooth elements. It's not as groundbreaking as Namyslowski's other albums, but it is a good listen nonetheless.

I might be biased, but for a record cut in communist Poland, separated from the world music scene by an Iron Curtain, this sounds very much on par with many western releases from the era.

A good album to play in the background, while you're writing, working, studying... It does not demand constant attention to enjoy, but provides a wonderful musical backdrop.