renegade than Hendrix when it came to expressionistic frenzy; you can hear the two collide, commune and converse on such tracks as "Spanish Castle Magic."

Generally overlooked on Axis were taut, funky, could've-been-hits such as "Ain't No Telling," "Wait Until Tomorrow" and "Little Miss Lover." Axis' reputation was forged on its more mystical numbers: the achingly lyrical "Little Wing," the straight-world kiss-off "If 6 Was 9." Lyrically, Hendrix tosses out dreamy references to gold ships, golden gardens, rainbows and dragonflies -- in words and sound, he argues that the universe is a wondrous place full of magic to those willing to open their consciousness. Dig.

PARKE PUTERBAUGH
(RS 924, June 12, 2003)