First Circle

I listened to this cassette quite a bit back in 1985 and then left it for quite a while. Last year (2003), I was amazed to find myself humming "Yolanda, You Learn" and ordered the CD from Amazon. Discovering this music all over again was a joy. To me, this is a CD of uplifting, joyous music made by fantastic musicians offering up some incredible performances.While I have listened to other Metheny releases, nothing has touched me like this one. I would loved to have given this five stars, but the decision to include "Forward March" was a mistake. Fortunately, modern CD players can be programmed to skip tracks. My favorite tracks are "Yolanda, You Learn," "The First Circle," and "Praise." "If I Could" is so beautiful in its simplicity as to bring you to goosebumps and tears.If you are a guitarist or lover of Brazilian music, this CD is a must-have. This release is totally accessible to all lovers of quality music. Highly recommended.

I have been a Pat Metheny fan for over 30 years.I've seen him many times.I've met him.Here's how simple it is:If you like PMG's music, this is a FIVE STAR album.It's not really up for debate. Many people aren't comfortablewith Pat's true style, which may not really be what sells the mostmusic for him, unlike this album, which is more on the Grammy/more mainstream(for Pat) side. Included in his true style are pieces that sound likethe first track on this album. You have to appreciate what hedoes, (as well as Lyle Mays, Steve Rodby and some other remarkablytalented musicians), and how good they all are at what they do.That being said; Forward March can be a bit difficult to listen to,but understand the back story of the tune, and remember who's playing,and you can accept the song for what it is. The rest of the album isPat's typical fare that true PM fans can't live without. His INCREDIBLErange, speed, and ability to physically draw people in so deeply thatthey'll actually cry, is absolutely transparent on First Circle.This (along with every other note he's ever put down on wax or mp3) isdesert island material.If you even THINK that you could come to admire and respect their work,this album will blow you away. These are definitely some their most listenablepresentations, and Pat's at his best on this album.Yeah, 30 years....It's been well worth it.My personal opinion is that NOBODY is near Pat/PMG on the"Who's Your Favorite Artist" list. But I'm also unbiasedwhen it comes to reviews and I actually know what I'm talking about.Cheers! BUY IT.

one of the all time great fusion albums. I can listen to it over and over. the variety of sounds and influences are endless. Highly recommend it.

Metheny is great!

Some great numbers on this

One of the best albums PM ever made. This is the one that made me fall in love with his music.

nice!!!!!!!! music for the soul...soothing compilation of a musical genius! great buy if you love metheny or eclectic music in general!

This title seems to be out of print and I have worn out my original copy.The 1985 grammy award winning title song "First Circle" is still one of the greatest hidden secrets in the music world.....