On this legendary, high-octane 1985 live studio celebration, the flagship artists of the powerhouse GRP label gather for an absolute masterclass in state-of-the-art jazz fusion. GRP Live In Session captures Dave Grusin, Lee Ritenour, Diane Schuur, and Dave Valentin pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz instrumentation with sparkling, audiophile-grade high-fidelity sound. Recorded live before an intimate studio audience, the group showcases an electrifying blend of acoustic mastery and cutting-edge 1980s technology, featuring Grusin’s dazzling array of DX7 and Jupiter synths alongside Ritenour’s legendary guitar and SynthAxe mastery. Backed by the unmatched, driving rhythm force of bassist Abraham Laboriel and drummer Carlos Vega, the ensemble delivers fiercely syncopated performances. From the sweeping, cinematic energy of Grusin's classic "Mountain Dance" and the explosive, funky syncopation of Ritenour's "Rio Funk," to Diane Schuur's jaw-dropping, powerhouse vocal performance on "Reverend Lee," this session remains a definitive, essential document of 1980s fusion grandeur at its peak.

As well as being the great vibraphone innovator of the era, Gary Burton is known for his unparalleled intuition as a talent scout. In 1973, The New Quartet introduced Abraham Laboriel: this was the first recording of the bassist who would soon become one of the most in-demand session players across all genres. “It must be emphasised that Laboriel sounds like a major artist in the making with his astonishing bass work,” wrote Melody Maker. Guitarist Mick Goodrick also emerged as a player to watch on this album, shining in a well-conceived programme with compositions of Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Carla Bley, Mike Gibbs and bandleader Burton.