"Procession" is the eleventh studio album by American jazz fusion band, Weather Report. Released in 1983 by Columbia Records, it marked an important phase in the band's journey. It was also the first Weather Report album to feature drummer Omar Hakim and percussionist Jose Rossy.
Featuring six tracks, "Procession" continued the legacy of Weather Report's innovative experimentation in the genre by using rhythms from Africa, the Middle East, and South America, brought in by the new band members. The album is dominated by Wayne Shorter's saxophone and Joe Zawinul's keyboards – the two central figures of Weather Report since its formation.
The album opens with "Procession," a piece co-written by all members of the band, setting a tone for the collaborative nature of the album. "Plaza Real," composed by Shorter, offers contrasting acoustic piano and soprano saxophone interplay, showcasing the group's talent for tempo and structure.
Despite not being one of the band's more popular albums at the time of release, "Procession" holds an important place in Weather Report's discography for its unique blend of global influences and meticulous compositions, marking a shift in the musical journey of the band.
Overall, "Procession" is an album that showcases Weather Report's adaptability and willingness to evolve and experiment while staying true to their unique blend of jazz fusion.
