"Crossroad" by Manfred Schoof is a captivating blend of free jazz, French house, and nu disco, released on August 13, 1992, under Berlin Production Music TV. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, this album is a testament to Schoof's innovative spirit and genre-defying prowess.
The album opens with "Rainbirds," setting the stage for a journey through a diverse soundscape. Tracks like "Sky And Ocean" and "Seasons End" showcase Schoof's ability to merge jazz improvisation with electronic beats, creating a unique fusion that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. "Reflections" and "Salt Desert" delve into more introspective territories, while "Emotion" and "Smiling Helicopter" bring a sense of playfulness and rhythm.
The title track, "Crossroad," serves as a pivotal point in the album, leading into the atmospheric "Garden Of Glass" and the introspective "Air." The latter half of the album continues to surprise with tracks like "Spacecraft Parade" and "Iceland," each offering a distinct flavor that keeps the listener engaged. "Feelin' Free" and "Apocalypse" bring a sense of liberation and intensity, respectively, culminating in the reflective "What I Like."
"Crossroad" is not just an album; it's a journey through sound, blending the spontaneity of free jazz with the pulsating energy of French house and nu disco. Manfred Schoof's masterful composition and performance make this a standout piece in his discography, offering a rich and varied listening experience.