Molom, the soundtrack for the French movie of the same name, was recorded in 1994. Several traditional Mongolian songs are included but, the majority of the score was written by John McLaughlin. Trilok Gurtu is McLaughlin's foil for this production and their historical interplay is at full-strength.

Noting that some tunes are short and still others somewhat formless because of the inherent restrictions of a movie soundtrack format, I think most fans would be happy if Molom was a McLaughlin album on its own.

The instrumentation is limited to guitar, guitar synth and percussion. But, JM and Trilok can take these instruments and do things no others can. John plays acoustic guitar, electric straight-ahead, electric fusion and midi guitars. Sounding like Shakti at some times and the Free Spirits at other times, McLaughlin raises the energy. At other times, you will be reminded of his acoustic tone on Time Remembered. Hints of the Belo Horizonte Band will ring in your ears as well.

"The Boy's Theme", a re-working of the classic "Lotus Feet", is light and lilting and dominates the theme. "The Dream of the Boy" is Trilok's featured cut and the "Lotus Feet" theme is resurrected once again on "The Boy Cries" in a way you have never heard it. "The Boy Leaves" is also a further reworking of "Lotus Feet" motif, this time with John's somewhat current Free Spirits guitar tone. Don't worry, there is plenty in-between including "Hunting-The Witch", a somewhat low-key but sinister piece which is reminiscent of Miles, The One Truth Band and Weather Report.

Most of the Mongolian stuff is okay too, with the exception of "The Traditional Song" and the "National Song". In fact, some Mongolian folk songs, (chanting), on the album are beautiful and hint to a direction JM took on "The Promise" with the poetic verses.

Did you ever want to hear McLaughlin interpret a movie and score it? Here is your chance. This soundtrack should be in your collection. At the time of this review, this album is only obtainable as an import.

Walter Kolosky
smsi@attbi.com

Walter Kolosky is a businessman and jazz fan who lives in South Natick, MA, USA