by Robert Taylor
The third and final Shakti recording from the '70s. The songs here are shorter than those on Shakti and Handful of Beauty, but no less impressive. The novelty of combining Eastern and Western musical styles had worn off and McLaughlin sounds comfortable. This allows for memorable compositions and interchanges, rather than the blistering virtuosity that characterized the first two releases. From the intense (&Daffodil and the Eagle&) to the joyful (&Happiness Is Being Together&), Natural Elements stands as a milestone in McLaughlin's illustrious career.