Shamal (album)

Shamal is the ninth studio album by the progressive rock band Gong, released in 1975. It marks a significant shift in the band's sound, departing from the "Radio Gnome Invisible" trilogy's whimsical space rock towards a more jazz-fusion oriented style. This transition was largely due to the departure of key members Daevid Allen and Gilli Smyth, and the subsequent leadership of guitarist Allan Holdsworth and drummer Pierre Moerlen.

The album's title, "Shamal," refers to a northwesterly wind that blows over the Persian Gulf. The music features complex instrumental arrangements, showcasing Holdsworth's virtuoso guitar playing and Moerlen's precise and powerful drumming. Compared to earlier Gong albums, Shamal is less focused on lyrical narratives and more on instrumental exploration.

Key personnel on Shamal include:

• Pierre Moerlen (drums, percussion)
• Allan Holdsworth (guitar)
• Didier Malherbe (saxophone, flute)
• Mike Howlett (bass)
• Patrice Lemoine (keyboards)
• Miriam Klein (vocals)

While Shamal is often considered a Gong album, its distinct sound and different lineup compared to the band's earlier work have led some to view it as a separate entity or a transitional phase in Gong's history. The album has been generally well-received by critics for its musicianship and complex compositions, although some fans of the classic Gong sound find it less appealing.