Total Eclipse
Billy Cobham · 1974
44 min · 8 tracks · funk
A vibrant fusion of jazz and funk, driven by intricate rhythms and powerful percussion layered with rich melodic textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Solarisation: A) Solarisation B) Second Phase C) Crescent Sun D) Voyage E) Solarisation-Recapitulation Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Total Eclipse — The title track embodies the album's essence, combining dynamic drumming with a haunting melody that reflects both tension and release throughout its progression.
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Solarisation — This multi-part suite showcases Cobham’s virtuosity as it shifts through various thematic sections, highlighting complex rhythms and improvisational elements that define the album.
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Sea of Tranquillity — With its expansive soundscapes and meditative grooves, this track stands out for its ability to blend serene melodies with intricate rhythmic patterns, reflecting Cobham's mastery of dynamics.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Total Eclipse features intricate compositions and strong rhythms, establishing Cobham's unique sound in jazz fusion.
What we noticed
- Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections where the percussion dominates, creating a dynamic interplay with the melodic instruments.
- The album includes abrupt transitions between tracks, often moving from intricate arrangements to more straightforward grooves.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic exploration of celestial themes
- wave-like pacing with intricate rhythms
- short bursts of energetic expression
- immersive listening for focused moments
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Solidified Cobham's reputation in jazz fusion after his earlier work.
- Career context
- Released in 1974, Total Eclipse was Billy Cobham's third studio album following the groundbreaking Spectrum. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from his role as a drummer with the Mahavishnu Orchestra to establishing himself as a solo artist, showcasing his unique blend of jazz fusion and rock influences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Mahavishnu Orchestra· Chick Corea· Weather Report
Tracklist
- 1 Solarisation: A) Solarisation B) Second Phase C) Crescent Sun D) Voyage E) Solarisation-Recapitulation Start here 11:09
- 2 Lunarputians 2:33
- 3 Total Eclipse 5:58
- 4 Bandits 2:32
- 5 Moon Germs 4:57
- 6 The Moon Ain't Made of Green Cheese 0:58
- 7 Sea of Tranquillity 10:43
- 8 Last Frontier 5:21
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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