Record Reviews
51 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | KEVIN AYERS ~ THE BBC SESSIONS 1970-1976
HUX 073 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Another splendid release from the BBC vaults presenting the extraordinary work of Canterbury hero Kevin AyersFind albums by this artist, spanning a period from his early Soft MachineFind albums by this artist days and later solo career. The list of musicians playing with Ayers on these sessions looks like a who’s who of early 1970’s Canterbury scene, Prog and Jazz combined: Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, Mike OldfieldFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, Andy SummersFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist, David BedfordFind albums by this artist, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Archie LeggettFind albums by this artist, Ollie HalsallFind albums by this artist & Zoot MoneyFind albums by this artist. The music is as adventurous and quirky as his usual output, with often humorous lyrics and plenty of instrumental passages to spice it all. This material is of immense historical importance and opens many windows to the understanding of the simmering UK musical scene at the time. The sound quality is excellent as usual for all the BBC recorded material. A must to all Canterbury scene fans.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BROTHERHOOD OF BREATH ~ BREMEN TO BRIDGWATER
CUNEIFORM 182/183 (Barcode: 045775018225) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 - 1975 Released: 2004
This albums collects three concerts recorded by the legendary British Jazz ensemble Brotherhood Of BreathFind albums by this artist, led by pianist / composer Chris McGregorFind albums by this artist. The first recording captures the ensemble in its early days (1971) whereas the other two come from four years later (1975), towards the end of the life cycle of the first edition of the band, which came to its end with the death of trumpeter Mongezi FezaFind albums by this artist just a month after the last of these concerts was recorded. The collective lineup (which changed slightly over time) includes: Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, Marc CharigFind albums by this artist and Mongezi Feza – trumpet, Nick EvansFind albums by this artist, Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist and Radu MalfattiFind albums by this artist – trombone, Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist, Evan ParkerFind albums by this artist, Dudu PukwanaFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Bruce GrantFind albums by this artist and Gary WindoFind albums by this artist – saxophone, Chris McGregor – piano, Harry MillerFind albums by this artist – bass and Louis MoholoFind albums by this artist and Keith BaileyFind albums by this artist– drums. It is interesting to compare the development of the ensemble over this relatively short time period and see how well integrated musically and spiritually the ensemble really was. Both the individual and collective improvisations are all breathtaking and the entire concert is an orgy of sound and musical creativity. A must to all British Jazz enthusiasts and definitely worth investigating for all open-minded music lovers.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | COMMAND ALL STARS ~ CURIOSITIES 1972
REEL RECORDINGS 010 (Barcode: 676868178023) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2008
This album is a great example of what the Canadian Reel RecordingsFind albums on this label label is all about: unearthing recorded documents of the British Jazz / Avant-Garde scene dating back to the 1960s, which have been so far completely lost and (sadly) often forgotten. Considering the fact that the Golden Decade (1965-1975) was Britain´s most illustrious contribution to music, any recorded document from that period has an immense historical value and therefore the work done by this label is truly a quest worth following. The music contained herein was recorded with the intention to be released as a double album, presenting the Art of spontaneous improvisation, performed by a collective of young (at the time) but experienced British players, who spearheaded the local Free Jazz / Improvised Music scene and certainly deserved the "stardom" status in spite of the oxymoron such epithet might imply: pianist Keith TippettFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, trombonist Nick EvansFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Mark CharigFind albums by this artist, bassists Harry MillerFind albums by this artist and Johnny DyaniFind albums by this artist and drummer Keith BaileyFind albums by this artist. These musicians often played with each other in various ensembles, of which they were members, but never collectively as one group, hence the one-time opportunity to hear them improvise collectively is so attractive. Unfortunately, as it often happened at the time, even with Jazz labels as the one for which these recordings were made, the label found this music to be "too much to swallow" and the project was discarded, including whipping out the original master tapes (a crime, without a doubt). Fortunately two copies of the original four reels were recently discovered by Evans and here we are being able to finally listen to this music. The music itself needs little elucidation to people familiar with the recorded output of the protagonists – it is what they always did best, play whatever their hearts dictated at the moment, carefully listening to each other and together creating a whole, which is much bigger than its parts. The album also includes two tracks recorded later the same year (for the BBC? as the recording premises might suggest) by a sextet including Dean, Evans and Charig with guitarist Jeff GreenFind albums by this artist, bassist Neville WhiteheadFind albums by this artist and drummer Louis MoholoFind albums by this artist. This is a true "blast from the past" and an absolute must for any British Jazz / Avant-Garde fan, wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ELTON DEAN ~ THE VORTEX TAPES
SLAM 203 (Barcode: 5028386020325) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1992
This is a live album by British Jazz saxophonist / composer Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, recorded at the legendary London’s Vortex club during the five days of the last week of September 1990, each night with a different lineup, four of which are quartets and one is a sextet. The list of the participating musicians reads like the Who’s Who of the British Free Jazz / Improvised Music scene at the time and includes pianists Keith TippettFind albums by this artist and Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist, Jerry UnderwoodFind albums by this artist and Simon PicardFind albums by this artist, trombonists Nick EvansFind albums by this artist and Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist, bassists Marcio MattosFind albums by this artist and Paul RogersFind albums by this artist, drummers Louis MoholoFind albums by this artist, Mark SandersFind albums by this artist, Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist and Tony LevinFind albums by this artist. The fact that Dean managed to invite all these great musicians to play with him during one week speak volumes about his position on the scene and the respect he earned over the years. The album presents five tracks, three of which are over ten minutes in duration. All the music was composed by Dean.
The music is absolutely in sync with what one might have expected from such esteemed players, Free Jazz oriented, full of passion and incredible dialogues between these musicians, who often played with each other in various settings. The incredible intensity of the music still allows for excellent individual contributions to be clearly heard. The sextet (four saxophones) track is a wonderful example of group improvisation, where the mutual respect is fully observed and the saxophone quartet is featured as an organic micro-orchestral unit, later joined by the rhythm section.
There is so much superb music on this album, that writing about it is actually pretty redundant, and should simply encourage to grab a copy of this gem, before it completely disappears from the market. British Jazz enthusiasts and even listeners who are aware of Elton Dean only through his association with Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, should make to bold step forward and embrace this facet of Dean’s incredible talent.
Overall, this is a monumental document of the British Free Jazz scene by the end of the 1990s, when it was at its absolute peak. The tornado swirl on the album’s cover reflects the power and spirit of the music perfectly and fans of this kind of music should find this album indispensable. Lucky for us this music was captured on tape and released, staying with us for posterity. A true force of Nature!
| | Updated: 24/06/2023Posted: 24/06/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ELTON DEAN ~ INTO THE NIERIKA
BLUEPRINT 292 (Barcode: 604388113224) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1998 Released: 1998
The recorded legacy of the legendary British saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, one of the great icons of British Jazz since the late 1960s, is fortunately quite extensive, nevertheless some of his great sessions remain relatively obscure due to their short-lived presence on the record market and the fact that many of his albums are sadly out of print. This is one of such examples, a trio recording with Italian bassist Roberto BellatallaFind albums by this artist and drummer Mark SandersFind albums by this artist. In spite of the difficulty intrinsic to a saxophone trio, Dean seems to enjoy the freedom such setup allows, improvising extensively on the three "instant" compositions included on the album. He uses the alto sax for the more explosive ventures and the saxello for the softer, lyrical moments, always in top form. The rhythm section provides a great support for the music, obviously with open ears and a massive amount of admiration and respect for the Master. Although this is quite difficult, mostly freely improvised music, Dean´s fans and admirers will find this to be just their cup of tea. Grab it, if you can find it!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ELTON DEAN ~ MOORSONG
CUNEIFORM 143 (Barcode: 045775014326) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1998 - 1999 Released: 2001
This wonderful album features ex-Soft Machine reedman Dean in collaboration with 5 other UK Jazz musicians more as a `sound-painter` than a Jazzman. The music in more introvert and dreamy, with plenty of softness and mysticism. Guitarist Mark Hewins (who appears on several other albums with Dean) is an ideal partner in this dreamy voyage. The title tune is dedicated to none other than Syd Barrett. Delightful for the more adventurous listener.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ELTON DEAN / MARK HEWINS ~ BAR TORQUE
MOONJUNE 001 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
This (sax & guitar) duo goes way back to the days when both players were members of Soft HeapFind albums by this artist, a great Canterbury Jazz-Rock outfit which followed in the steps of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist. Here they present a series of long and extended improvisations, very much in the free-jazz vain. Not for everybody, but those who like this style of musical expression will enjoy this one very much.
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Recorded live at the Jazz Café 1992, London; remixed & remastered 2000; released 2001
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEVIN FIGES ~ YOU ARE HERE
JAZZ NOW 02 (Barcode: 5060774190654) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024
This is an album by British Jazz saxophonist Kevin FigesFind albums by this artist, recorded in a sextet setting with pianist Jim BlomfieldFind albums by this artist, trombonist Raphael ClarksonFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Pete JudgeFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony OrrellFind albums by this artist and bassist Riaan VoslooFind albums by this artist. The album presents fourteen tracks, five of which were composed by Keith TippettFind albums by this artist, five were composed by other British Jazz musicians connected to Tippett throughout his career, and the remaining four short pieces were composed by the members of the sextet.
The album (and the sextet) is a tribute to the music of the legendary British pianist / composer / bandleader Keith Tippett, one of the most important figures of the modern British Jazz. Figes and a few other members of the sextet played with Tippet before his untimely demise in 2020, and the leader directed a series of concerts commemorating Tippett’s music, leading to the creation of this album.
The music is a wonderful tribute to Tippett’s giant contribution to the development of British Jazz since the late 1960s, in which he instigated some of the most revolutionary ideas, ranging from solo piano to Big Band / Orchestral projects, which are still perfectly valid today and remain beacons of ingenuity and genius, sadly not present on the contemporary scene.
The music is splendidly performed and recorded and offers a fond memory of Tippett and other heroes of the British Jazz scene, like Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Harry MillerFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, Dudu PukwanaFind albums by this artist and King CrimsonFind albums by this artist members, all of which made a tremendous contribution at their time. The material selected for this album is a superb review / retrospect glance at the finest moments of the scene.
This album is the second release on the new Jazz NowFind albums on this label label, created by the same people who run the splendid Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label, which produced an impressive series of brilliant albums, which document the development of British Jazz in past decades. Obviously the new label is meant to document contemporary British Jazz.
Overall, this is a wonderful tribute album, which offers refreshed versions of compositions by Keith Tippett and other Godfathers of modern British Jazz, splendidly arranged and performed by Figes and the sextet, a great addition to any British Jazz record collection.
| | Updated: 10/07/2024Posted: 10/07/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUGH HOPPER ~ HOPPER TRINITY BOX
CUNEIFORM 240 (Barcode: 045775024028) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2007
2nd album by Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (and the first release after he left Soft MachineFind albums by this artist), released originally on the tiny Norwegian Compendium label (same label that originally released Henry CowFind albums by this artist’s ConcertsFind albums with this title and other weird but wonderful music). Musically the album belongs very strongly to the Soft Machine experimental Jazz-Rock of the ThirdFind albums by this artist, FourthFind albums with this title, FiveFind albums with this title & SixFind albums by this artist period (when Hopper was still a member of the group). Hopper enlisted eight great musicians (Mark CharigFind albums by this artist, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, Gary WindoFind albums by this artist and others), all members of the flourishing Canterbury scene and UK Jazz circles (members in groups like Brotherhood Of BreathFind albums by this artist, GilgameshFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, IsotopeFind albums by this artist, Keith TippettFind albums by this artist Sextet, etc), who make up the duos, trios, quartets and quintets that play on this album. He wrote all the music, except one track, which was composed by Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist. This album is considered Hopper’s most consistent release ever and sounds as fresh today as when it was first recorded. For all Canterbury scene and SM fans this is an absolute must and it’s a great joy to see this album available again. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUGH HOPPER ~ JAZZLOOPS / THE STOLEN HOUR
EXPLORE RIGHTS MANAGEMENT 029 (Barcode: 5060105499616) ~ UK ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2001 - 2004 Released: 2023
This is a reissue / remaster of two albums by the iconic British Jazz / Fusion / Prog / Avant-Garde bassist / multi-instrumentalist / composer Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist. Recorded between 2001 and 2004 the albums present collaborations with many invited musicians, like saxophonists Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Didier MalherbeFind albums by this artist and Simon PicardFind albums by this artist, vocalist / pianist Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, drummers Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, John MarshallFind albums by this artist and many other musicians. “JazzloopsFind albums with this title” presents eleven tracks and “The Stolen HourFind albums with this title” twelve tracks, all originals by Hopper.
The music is mostly Free-Jazz / Improvised Music oriented, but based on steady hypnotic loops and monotonic rhythms, and kept in an Ambient / Industrial mood, creating a highly unusual atmosphere and a drone-like feel. The contrast between the saxophone improvisations and the rhythmic background offer a magic effect, which takes a while to get into, but keeps the listener in constant state of sonic intoxication.
Hopper, who was the omnipresent hero of the Canterbury scene and played in dozens different groups, like Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, IsotopeFind albums by this artist, GilgameshFind albums by this artist, Soft HeapFind albums by this artist and many others and recorded a long list of legendary albums, was also an avid Jazz musician and played with the best British Jazz musicians over the years.
His later years (he died in 2009) were dedicated to recording many projects with different musicians, which were mostly only released posthumously. His collected recorded legacy is truly monumental and he deserves to be remembered as one of the key figures of the British Rock and Jazz Avant-Garde.
Overall, this is a most welcome reissue album, which brings back to life two important albums by Hopper, which were all but gone from the market and deserve to be heard by the young generation of listeners, who most probably never heard of their existence. Warmly recommended for lovers of nontrivial challenging music.
| | Updated: 21/04/2023Posted: 21/04/2023 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PHIL MILLER / IN CAHOOTS ~ LIVE 86 - 89
CRESCENT 09 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1986 - 1989 Released: 2008
Legendary guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist and his In CahootsFind albums by this artist ensemble have been active on the Canterbury / Jazz scene since the 1980s, constantly changing lineups but always producing music of the highest quality. A vehicle for presenting Miller’s intricate and highly sophisticated compositions, the ensemble’s recorded legacy through the years – both studio and live – is a great example of European Jazz. This album presents a series of live recordings from the 1980s with a stellar lineup, which includes Miller – guitar and guitar synthesizer, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist – alto saxophone and saxello, Peter LemerFind albums by this artist and Steve FranklinFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and Fred BakerFind albums by this artist – bass and Pip PyleFind albums by this artist – drums. Most of the music, except one tune by Hopper, Dean and Franklin each, was composed by Miller and is as usual exceptional, as are the performances. This is a reissue of the original edition of this album from 1989, which is now a rare collector´s item. Highly recommended!
| | | CD-R 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PHIL MILLER / IN CAHOOTS ~ LIVE IN JAPAN
CRESCENT 02 (Barcode: 5020522080224) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1993
Guitarist / composer Phil MillerFind albums by this artist and his In CahootsFind albums by this artist ensemble have been a consistently excellent source of great music for many years. This particular lineup is a sextet and includes: Miller – guitar, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist – sax, Jim DvorakFind albums by this artist – trumpet, Peter LemerFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Fred BakerFind albums by this artist – bass and Pip PyleFind albums by this artist – drums. Recorded live during a Japanese tour, this album presents the group performing the wonderful Miller’s compositions in an extended form, with many outstanding solos by all the players. Much of the set is drawn from Phil´s solo album Digging InFind albums with this title and it is interesting to compare the carefully controlled studio versions with these loose, fiery, live ones. Miller always talks about himself first as a composer and only then as a guitarist, and rightly so since although he is an excellent player, he has very few equals as a song-weaver. Excellent stuff!
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  | PHIL MILLER / IN CAHOOTS ~ OUT OF THE BLUE
CRESCENT 05 (Barcode: 604388476626) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2000
Guitarist / composer Phil MillerFind albums by this artist and his In CahootsFind albums by this artist ensemble have been a consistently excellent source of great music for many years. This album is very special in their discography, as Phil wrote the music for this album during the period when his brother, pianist Steve MillerFind albums by this artist became ill with the cancer which eventually killed him in December of 1998. Phil had originally hoped that Steve would play on the recording but, as his illness progressed, that ceased to be a possibility. In a way this album is a tribute to Steve and is dedicated to his memory. This is a real return to roots for Phil, harking back to earlier days when he, Steve and Pip played together in DeliveryFind albums by this artist, a band which leaned heavily on the blues for its starting point and it coincides with CuneiformFind albums on this label Records re-release of the Delivery album Fools MeetingFind albums with this title. It represents something of a departure for Phil, being his first venture into the blues for 30 years. The writing is simpler and there is more of a groove in the rhythm section. The usual In Cahoots sextet line up of Phil Miller - guitar and guitar synthesizer, Fred BakerFind albums by this artist - fretless bass guitar, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist - alto sax and saxello, Peter LemerFind albums by this artist - keyboards, Jim DvorakFind albums by this artist - trumpet and Pip PyleFind albums by this artist - drums is augmented by Doug BoyleFind albums by this artist on guitar. Excellent music from start to finish, which of course is not surprising for a band that keeps delivering one great album after another.
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  | PHIL MILLER / IN CAHOOTS ~ SPLIT SECOND
CRESCENT 10 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2008
Legendary guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist and his In CahootsFind albums by this artist ensemble have been active on the Canterbury / Jazz scene since the 1980s, constantly changing lineups but always producing music of the highest quality. A vehicle for presenting Miller’s intricate and highly sophisticated compositions, the ensemble’s recorded legacy through the years – both studio and live – is a great example of European Jazz. This album presents a series of studio recordings from the 1980s with a stellar lineup, which includes Miller – guitar and guitar synthesizer, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist – alto saxophone and saxello, Steve FranklinFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Fred BakerFind albums by this artist – bass and Pip PyleFind albums by this artist – drums on four of the eight tracks and the other tracks are collaborations with Canterbury heroes Dave StewartFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist – vocals, Barbara GaskinFind albums by this artist – vocals and John MitchellFind albums by this artist – keyboards and percussion. Most of the music was composed or co-composed by Miller and is as usual exceptional, as are the performances. This is a reissue of the original edition of this album from 1988, which is now a rare collector´s item. Highly recommended!
| | | CD-R 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEVE MILLER ~ MEETS ELTON DEAN
REEL RECORDINGS 007 (Barcode: 641444027729) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1976 - 1985 Released: 2008
British pianist Steve MillerFind albums by this artist (brother of guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist) started his way on the Canterbury scene when he played with legendary bands like DeliveryFind albums by this artist and CaravanFind albums by this artist, but by the late 1970s he reexamined his ambitions and musical approach and moved to play Free Jazz, as did many of his Canterbury cahoots. In the mid 1980s Steve led his own trio with Tony MooreFind albums by this artist on bass and Eddie PrevostFind albums by this artist on drums, performing a series of concerts with guest saxophone players, which included Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist, Bobby WellinsFind albums by this artist, Harrison SmithFind albums by this artist and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist. The recording on this album present the concert with Dean and it is a remarkable document of the British Avant-Garde Jazz at the time. As a bonus an earlier encounter between Miller and Dean, featuring another Canterbury hero, the drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, is also included. Considering the fact that Miller died prematurely in 1998 and Dean is also already on the other side since 2006, this album is a splendid addition to their legacy and a delight to their many admirers. British Jazz enthusiasts will of course be especially delighted to hear this material. Recommended!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | POLYSOFT ~ TRIBUTE TO SOFT MACHINE
TRITON 03506 (Barcode: 3426300163301) ~ FRANCE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2002
This fabulous tribute to the music of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist was recorded live at the Parisian club `le triton` and features the French group PolySoftFind albums by this artist and former SM members Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (bass) and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (sax). The ensemble plays a selection on favorite SM tunes from all periods, with skill and imagination. Mostly very jazzy and improvised, but close in spirit to the originals. Highly recommended!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I was put off this album for a long time, because "tributes" are usually pale imitations; but Polysoft have something new and valuable to say about these familiar pieces and of course HH & ED guarantee authenticity
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PSYCHIC WARRIOR ~ PSYCHIC WARRIOR
HUX 059 (Barcode: 682970000596) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2004
Only album by the brilliant, but short-lived British quartet comprising of keyboardist Alex MaguireFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, bassist Fred BakerFind albums by this artist and drummer Liam GenockeyFind albums by this artist. The first three musicians in the lineup are of course associated with the Canterbury scene, mostly on the Free Jazz and Improvised Music side of the genre. Maguire wrote most of the music for this session, with Dean co-composing one track. The music is, as always in the case of such great musicians, a brilliant display of both individual virtuosity and group improvisation, which need little introduction to connoisseurs of the genre. In view of Dean´s death, this is one of the latest studio sessions he played on and therefore a treasure. Not to be missed!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOWARD RILEY ~ ANGLE / THE DAY WILL COME
HUX 141 (Barcode: 682970001418) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second and third albums by British Jazz pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, both recorded in a trio format with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist plays on one track of the debut album, which presents eight original compositions, all by Riley. The second album presents twelve original compositions, six each by Riley and Guy. These two albums were originally released in 1969 and 1970 respectively, by CBSFind albums on this label (the European branch of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). This reissue is in fact a reissue of the 1999 remastered editions of these two albums, which disappeared from the market immediately following their release.
Together with these two albums, CBS, initially under the Realm Jazz moniker and later just as CBS, released also several albums by other British Jazz musicians such as the first two albums by drummer / composer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, the first three albums by guitarist Ray RussellFind albums by this artist and debut albums by vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, as well as albums by groups like Rock WorkshopFind albums by this artist, Soft MachineFind albums by this artist and others. All these are exceptional examples of completely non commercial / highly artistic music released by a Major record label, a phenomenon which reflected the spirit of that particular era and lasted for a very brief period of time, sadly never to be repeated again
By the time this music was recorded, i.e. by the late 1960s, British Jazz underwent a dramatic transformation, a quantum leap no less, from imitation to innovation. After copying the American Jazz tradition for decades, the post WWII generation rebelled and rapidly found its own methods of expression, embracing such diverse influences as contemporary European Classical music, World-Music and Rock and amalgamating them into a new identity, which would become first modern British Jazz and soon after copied all over Europe, including even the countries behind the Iron Curtain, modern European Jazz. In the aftermath of these remarkable events British Jazz scene was encompassing a diverse rage of stylistic alternatives, from Jazz-Rock and Jazz-World Fusions, via modern mainstream to a whole range of alternative / Avant-Garde experimentation including Free Jazz and Improvised Music.
It takes just a brief moment into the first album to realize that Riley belongs to the Avant-Garde oriented group of British musicians, who value freedom of expression and individuality more than convention and acceptance. Even on these two early albums he is already well advanced in his experimentation, keeping melody only as an entry point to his music, which is entirely based on the dialogue (or in this case trialogue) and collective improvisation, rather than on following the chord progressions of standards and keeping regular time signatures. Guy, who was just over twenty years old when this music was recorded, proves to be an ideal partner, a born adventurer and complete nonconformist. His bass playing on these two albums is an encyclopedic textbook of improvised music moves for fellow bassists, developed completely spontaneously and subconsciously. But it is Jackson, who is the biggest surprise on these albums, considering his almost entirely conventional background before these sessions as one of Britain´s most sought after modern mainstream drummers. His wonderful integration with Riley and Guy here is simply sensational and a superb proof of his open-mindedness and musicality.
In the years that followed these sessions Riley would record many more wonderful albums in many different settings, but these two albums would always symbolize his individuality and prophetic vision. The early signs of his exceptional abilities, which were about to push the boundaries of music and contribute to its development, influencing generations of players, are clearly evident herein, turning these albums into instant classics.
The most startling realization one is faced with, while listening to these two albums, is the fact that not only the music did not age or lost any of its relevance, but it still is right there on the forefront of the musical Art Form, exactly where it was almost fifty years ago. These iconic recordings have earned their position in the Pantheon of British Jazz right from the moment they were recorded, and their unavailability during most of the time that passed since was a crime against culture, somewhat repented by this current reissue.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOWARD RILEY / ELTON DEAN ~ ONE TO ONE
SLAM 234 (Barcode: 5028386023425) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1993 - 1999 Released: 1999
This is an album by the British Jazz duo of pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist and saxophonist / composer Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, one of several recordings the two great musicians made together. The album presents eight tracks, all recorded live, which originate from two performances captured six years apart. Five of the tracks are co-credited to the two musicians, two are their interpretations of music composed by other Jazz greats and one is their take on a standard.
The music is very intensive, partly based on melodic themes but largely improvised, with was the usual modus operandi of this duo, when working together. Both musicians cooperated for many years and offers a very tight rapport, which is beautifully portrayed herein.
Dean, who is mostly known for his work as a member of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist and other Canterbury scene ensembles, was in parallel involved with the Improvised Music / Free Jazz scene, which naturally is significantly less popular and widely known. His death in 2006 robbed the British Jazz scene not only of one of its greatest musicians, but also a kind and much loved human being.
Overall, this album is an important document of the British Free Jazz / Improvised Music scene in the 1990s, with a superb “Art of the Duo” performances by two brilliant musicians, who took no prisoners in their total approach to the music, and stayed faithful to their aesthetics, disregarding the musical fads and fashions, which came and went over the years.
| | Updated: 16/04/2023Posted: 16/04/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT HEAP ~ SOFT HEAP
ESOTERIC 2131 (Barcode: 5013929723122) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
Only album by the great band Soft HeapFind albums by this artist, a short-lived Canterbury super-group where members of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist – bass and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist – sax) met with pianist Alan GowenFind albums by this artist (GilgameshFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist) and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist (GongFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist). They managed to record just this one (eponymous) studio album and disbanded shortly afterwards, with each musician pursuing their own path. The band had all the qualities that make the Canterbury scene so special; superb musicianship, great compositions and a free spirit atmosphere with a dash of typical British humor. For specialists – the band´s name (second word) is an acronym of the band members´ first names. Considering the fact that Gowen, Dean, Pyle and Hopper are no longer with us (they passed away in 1981, 2006, 2006 and 2009 respectively) this is a tremendously important document of an era, which unfortunately is long time gone. A must for any Canterbury fan!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ ALIVE & WELL: RECORDED IN PARIS (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2234 (Barcode: 5013929733428) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft MachineFind albums by this artist switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end (for the time being).
But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock.
This, the group´s 1st formal live album, was the third of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, violinist Rick SandersFind albums by this artist, guitarist John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist (who replaced Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist), bassist Steve CookFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. It was recorded live at the Parisian "Theatre Le Palace, Monmartre". The music includes material from the two previous Harvest albums, as well as previously unrecorded tunes. There is plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized.
Overall, in retrospect this is still a very solid album by a great band and an absolute must to all Soft Machine fans. This expanded edition includes a whole second CD of previously unreleased material recorded at the same concert dates.
| | Updated: 06/07/2024Posted: | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ ALIVE IN PARIS 1970
VOICEPRINT 045 (Barcode: 604388704200) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
Although the early period of the legendary Canterbury band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist is relatively well documented on record, especially in the last decade when many live recordings of the band have been unearthed, cleaned up and released, video material was so far almost completely nonexistent. Therefore if there is a Holy Grail of Canterbury scene, and of course of Soft Machine, this is it! This footage, filmed by French TV at the Theatre de la Musique is not only a stellar visual experience but also a great sonic document due to the theatre´s superb acoustic. The band is at their most creative peak of course and what´s more the quintet lineup here, including Lyn DobsonFind albums by this artist on saxes and flute, existed for a mere few months and is almost undocumented on record. Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and Robert WyattFind albums by this artist are the band´s backbone and of course everybody plays their hearts out in glorious harmony and high-spirited atmosphere. I don´t need to emphasize how great and groundbreaking this music is (as I have done repeatedly so many times already), so let´s just say that this is an essential piece of music history, which deserves a place in any serious music collection.
| | | DVD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ BREDA REACTOR
VOICEPRINT 345 (Barcode: 604388318520) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2004
Recorded live in Holland (Breda), this album documents the brief period in the history of this legendary band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (lasting only for about 3 months) when it included as a fifth member (in addition to the core members) the talented multi-instrumentalist Lyn DobsonFind albums by this artist. This marks a more jazzy sound then ever before, with both Dobson and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist exploring long and comples saxophone solos. The sound quality is surprisingly clear (as opposed to many other SM live recordings) and this is a most important document of the era.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ BUNDLES
ESOTERIC 2196 (Barcode: 5013929729629) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft Machine switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end. But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock. This was the first of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist helps out on one tune. The music is quite different from anything the band recorded previously, based upon shorter and beautifully composed melody lines. There is still plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized. Holdsworth delivers some of his best playing to date but the overall level of musicianship is astounding. In retrospect this is still one of the best British Jazz-Rock albums and a magnificent piece of music history. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ DROP
MOONJUNE 023 (Barcode: 692287902322) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
Australian-born drummer Phil HowardFind albums by this artist stayed with Soft MachineFind albums by this artist just for five months, but his influence on the group´s transition into free improvisation music was tremendous. He recorded just one side of an LP with the group (the first side of "FifthFind albums with this title") and played quite a few gigs in UK and Europe with the band, which included also saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (who brought Howard into Soft Machine as a replacement for the departing Robert WyattFind albums by this artist), keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist and bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist. The European gigs included the legendary appearance at the most prestigious European Jazz Festival at the time, the Donaueschingen Musiktage, organized by Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist.
Howard brought into the quartet a ferocious "wall of sound" technique, which drove the quartet to unprecedented peaks of improvised music, only roughly based on themes stated at the start of every tune, very much in the same pattern as all free jazz, which flourished at the time, following the pioneering explorations of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and many others. Alas Howard´s days in the band were numbered, as the band was waiting for his replacement, John MarshallFind albums by this artist, to finish his previous engagement with Jack BruceFind albums by this artist. Sadly, following his departure from Soft Machine, very little was heard from this immensely talented drummer, which is a great pity. He can be heard on the Elton Dean´s debut solo album "Just UsFind albums with this title" (a must if you don´t have it yet!).
The music included here, all captured live during Soft Machine German tour, which followed the festival appearance, is a premiere example of their immense quality at that time, delivering some of European Jazz mightiest moments, definitely something that can be enjoyed not only by the dedicated fan base, but also by every Modern Jazz lover the world over. This is s brilliant document, which deserves slow and careful digestion with saliva drooling from one´s mouth, sure more than once. God bless the invention of a sound recorder!
| | Updated: 01/02/2016Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ FACELIFT
VOICEPRINT 233 (Barcode: 604388306725) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2002
Any previously unreleased material by the seminal British band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist is always a great source of joy to the band´s many fans all over the world, even if similar material exists on other studio and live recordings. By the time this live recording was made, the band, which comprised of saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, made a dramatic transition from their initial psychedelic period into Jazz-Rock Fusion, with often bordered on Free Jazz. This recording, from April 1970, was made just prior to the band entering the studio to record their masterpiece "ThirdFind albums with this title" and following their six-night residency at the prestigious Ronnie Scott´s club in London. They were at one of their musical peeks, having played the material included on this album for quite some time, which of course allowed them to stretch out and take risks, as well as re-invent the music at a greater rate of freedom that is usually possible with new pieces. This explains why several of the pieces are expanded to last well over 10 minutes and one even over 20 minutes. Most of the music was composed by Ratledge, with Hopper contributing a few of his own pieces and one piece by Wyatt. There is no doubt that this was a very special night, as the level of interplay and inspiration is truly extraordinary, with some of the most adventurous improvisations ever achieved by these illustrious musicians. While playing this music, the band was literally changing the shape of music as known up to that point, clearly pointing towards uncharted territory. Definitely one of the great moments of early British Jazz, not be missed by anybody interested in Soft Machine or the period´s music. This album is often criticized for its poor sound quality; indeed it suffers from the primitive recording source, but honestly I think that every minute of this music is worth more that almost anything else recorded at the time, so poor sound quality or not, this is a treasure!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ FIFTH (EXPANDED EDITION)
SONY BMG 687290 (Barcode: 828768729021) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 2007
5th album, which is also the first Soft MachineFind albums by this artist recording following Robert WyattFind albums by this artist’s departure from the group. Elton DeanFind albums by this artist enlisted the Australian drummer Phil HowardFind albums by this artist as Wyatt’s replacement. Howard played on Dean’s first album (Just UsFind albums with this title) recorded just a few month earlier and seemed a natural choice. However, after playing with the band for a few months in 1971 and then recording about half of the tracks on this album, the rest of the group felt that Howard’s free style didn’t feel completely right with their Jazz-Rock explorations and decided to look for a replacement. Fortunately they were able to enlist the absolutely best Jazz-Rock drummer on the UK scene at the time, John MarshallFind albums by this artist, who was a member of the fabulous Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist. Marshall brought to the band not only his amazing technique, but also more importantly his inventiveness and stability, which would serve as the perfect basis for the other members’ improvisations. The band completed the rest of the tracks on this album with Marshall at the drum chair. No horn-section was employed on this album, but the double bass player Roy BabingtonFind albums by this artist was used again to strengthen the rhythm section and allow more freedom and space for Hopper’s explorations. The album includes shorter pieces (in contrast to the LP’s sidelong tracks of ThirdFind albums with this title and FourthFind albums by this artist), creating a much more concise and focused musical opus, surely one of the best SM ever recorded. Listening to this album today will perhaps restore for some listeners the full glory it deserves, which was often overlooked by critics and fans alike, which usually prefer the Third album. This beautiful new remaster improves the original sound tremendously and the bonus track (alas only one) is a gem. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ FOURTH (REMASTERED)
SONY BMG 687291 (Barcode: 828768729120) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
4th album, which finds Soft MachineFind albums by this artist back in the quartet format with Elton DeanFind albums by this artist as the new permanent member. Following the direction set on the previous album, SM moved even further away from their original psychedelic direction into experimental Jazz-Rock, which was groundbreaking and innovative to the extreme and aeons ahead of its time. In similar fashion to the previous album, the band used a horn-section to utilize a much more powerful sound and limitless sonic possibilities, which included the creme de la creme of (then) contemporary and burgeoning young UK jazz scene, including Roy BabingtonFind albums by this artist – acoustic bass, Nick EvansFind albums by this artist – trombone, Mark CharigFind albums by this artist – cornet, Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist – saxes and Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist – saxes. This expanded ensemble recorded one of the most beautiful and most sophisticated albums of the era, which is completely timeless and inspiring to this very day. This new direction created some tension (to put it mildly) between the jazz oriented trio and the band’s original drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, which led to Wyatt’s departure from the band by mid-1971 (to start Matching MoleFind albums by this artist), before the next album would be recorded. Therefore this was to be the last SM album to feature his extraordinary drumming skills. This beautiful new remaster finally (for the first time ever) gets rid of the muddy and hollow sound from which this album suffered badly, obscuring much of the music it contained. Absolutely essential!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
It´s great to hear this properly at last - I have been listening to it over and over again since I broke the seal last night!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ GRIDES
CUNEIFORM 230/231 (Barcode: 045775023021) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2006
The Soft MachineFind albums by this artist archives keep offering new treasures on a pretty regular basis, taking the fans by surprise time after time. This album offers a live recording in Amsterdam from October 1970 (with the classic lineup Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist and Robert WyattFind albums by this artist), shortly after the release of ThirdFind albums with this title. The material includes some of the material from Third and early versions of material from the forthcoming FourthFind albums with this title. As usual with SM, although we all heard these tunes before, they do play them quite dramatically differently each time, so there is no fear of redundancy. In addition, this time the sound quality is truly great. As if the newly discovered materiel was no enough, this release also includes a 20 minutes DVD filmed in 1971 by Radio Bremen (at the same day when the VirtuallyFind albums with this title album material was recorded, but a different set). This is the first ever SM DVD material, which of course should make all the SM fans ecstatic. Essential to all SM fans and Canterbury aficionados!
| | | CD+DVD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ LIVE AT THE HENIE ONSTAD ART CENTRE 1971
REEL RECORDINGS 014/015 (Barcode: 775020975323) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2009
This a live recording by the seminal UK band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist recorded in Norway at the very creative peak of the band´s outstanding career. Saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist perform two continuous, mostly improvised sets, each about 45 minutes long, which makes this particular album different from all the other Soft Machine live albums, where the band performs compositions previously recorded in the studio. In addition, the perfect sound quality of this recording, which was done professionally, is undoubtedly the best ever Soft Machine live recording sound captured on tape. In addition, this release is accompanied by a CD-ROM audio-visual documentary about the band and the circumstances of this recording, which is superbly done and highly educative. In short this is truly an outstanding musical document of great value, not only to the band´s fan base but to all enthusiast of British Jazz as well. A must and a feast to our ears!
| | | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SIX (REMASTERED)
SONY BMG 687591 (Barcode: 828768759127) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2007
6th album by Soft MachineFind albums by this artist released originally as a double LP. Soon after recording FifthFind albums with this title, SM was facing more personnel changes with Elton DeanFind albums by this artist leaving the band to pursue his free jazz vocation. His replacement was another ex-NucleusFind albums by this artist founding member Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist. Jenkins was a classically trained musician with exceptional gift for composing beautiful melodies. In addition he was also a multi-instrumentalist and therefore was able not only to replace Dean on saxes, but he also played beautiful oboe and both acoustic and electric piano. The addition of Jenkins was a decisive factor for SM, adding to the band for the first time a touch of professionalism and virtuosity, this in addition to the great spontaneity and vitality the group always possessed. Jenkins turned out to be the group’s most prolific writer and more than half of the music on the new album was his contribution. The new lineup started touring immediately after Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist completed the recording sessions for his first album (1984Find albums with this title) and some of the shows were recorded with the intention of serving as part of the new album (first LP of the set). In late 1972 the group recorded the studio material for the album (second LP of the set), returning to the format of longer and more complex tunes. The music on this album is quite different from what SM played on ThirdFind albums with this title, FourthFind albums with this title and Fifth: it is much more melodic and atmospheric and of course not as much free jazz oriented. In fact this is one of the most essential examples of Jazz-Rock Fusion ever recorded, a direction SM was to follow from now on. This beautiful new remaster improves the original sound tremendously. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SOFTS
ESOTERIC 2202 (Barcode: 5013929730243) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft Machine switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end. But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock. This was the second of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, saxophonist Alan WakemanFind albums by this artist, guitarist John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist (who replaced Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist), bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. The last founding member of Soft Machine, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist left in the midst of recording of this album and his contribution here are minor. The music is a continuation of the direction set by its predecessor, based upon shorter and beautifully composed melody lines. There is still plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized. In retrospect this is still a very solid album by a great band and an absolute must to all Soft Machine fans.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ THIRD (EXPANDED EDITION)
SONY BMG 687293 (Barcode: 828768729328) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
3rd album by Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, originally released as a double LP. Although basically a trio at this point (Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist & Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist) they use a horn-section to expand the sound of the band, which includes among others Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (soon to be a full time SM member) and Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist (brother of Pye HastingsFind albums by this artist from CaravanFind albums by this artist). The music is of course one of the most pivotal recordings of the era and widely accepted as one of the greatest epics of Prog and Canterbury music, with brilliant improvisations and incredibly strong writing. Almost entirely instrumental, with Wyatt`s occasional scatting, this album marks the band’s transition from early psychedelic pop / rock to Jazz-Rock and later eventually to free jazz. With constantly changing lineup the band managed in the span of just a few months, between late 1969 and early 1970, to create an entirely new genre in itself, as nothing else done by any other band would ever sound similar to Soft Machine (of that period). This music is as revolutionary and groundbreaking as the stuff Miles DavisFind albums by this artist was creating at the time on the other side of the pond, and equally brilliant. The beautiful new edition adds a full bonus CD, which contains a live recording at the Royal Alert Hall (August 1970), done by the BBC (a trademark of sonic quality), previously unreleased. An absolute masterpiece, beyond essential!
| | | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE LEGACY ~ STEAM
MOONJUNE 016 (Barcode: 692287901622) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
Following the death of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist veteran member Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, the Soft Machine LegacyFind albums by this artist drafted a younger, but well established British saxophonist Theo TravisFind albums by this artist into their ranks to continue the band´s path and quest to commemorate the original Soft Machine tradition. This, their 3rd album, includes also the band veterans John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist on guitar, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist on bass and John MarshallFind albums by this artist on drums, playing a mixture of new compositions and older Soft Machine material, freely switching between Jazz-Rock Fusion and freely improvised passages, always with gusto and incredible musicianship. Travis, although in an incredibly tough spot to follow the great Elton Dean legacy (a legacy inside a legacy so to speak) does a fabulous job and fits in as if he was always there, which is of course nothing short of a miracle. There is hardly any need to tell people how good this music is; anybody familiar with these musicians knows that their "no bullshit" attitude has been their motto for years, so just lay back and enjoy! Absolute must for every Soft Machine fan and hopefully an ear opener for the younger generation, less familiar with the veterans.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT WORKS ~ ABRACADABRA IN OSAKA
MOONJUNE 112 (Barcode: 692287911225) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2021
This is an archival album documenting a live concert by the short-lived British quartet Soft WorksFind albums by this artist, comprising of ex-Soft MachineFind albums by this artist members: saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (who also plays Fender Rhodes here), guitarist Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. The music was captured during the group’s tour in Japan in 2003. The 2CD album presents eleven tracks, some of which were originally composed for the group’s only studio album “AbracadabraFind albums with this title”, and others which belong to the classic Soft Machine repertoire.
With tracks running on average over the ten-minutes mark, the music is everything the listener familiar with Soft Machine stuff might expect, i.e. long instrumental jams, featuring extensive improvisations by Dean and Holdsworth, superbly supported by the rhythm section. As a result, the music constantly swings like a pendulum between Jazz (Dean) and Fusion (Holdsworth), with the rhythm section swinging on its own right.
Probably the most impressive are the solo parts played by Holdsworth, who obviously feels unconstrained by any time limit obligations and psychological pressures, and simply pours his heart out, producing some of the best guitar oriented Fusion moments ever. I always thought that Holdsworth was one of the tragic figures on the guitar arena in many respects. He was simply too talented for his own good, never actually managing to create the music he really wanted to, from the earliest days of his career and to the very end of his life. His studio recordings are all very far from what he really had to say and as a member of group efforts he simply never found a team that could march his stratospheric imagination, which always soared to the stars. This album probably captures some of his best playing ever, like what I remember when he used to play in dinky pubs around London, completely relaxed sitting a couple of feet away from his audience.
Although there is a lot of open space in this music, with pretty wild improvisation around, the music stays well organized for the duration, and eschews the Free Jazz idiom, which might have disrupted the connection with the audience. Complex and challenging – yes, but never chaotic, would be the best description of these proceedings.
Overall this is a wonderful document of this particular chapter in the long Soft Machine family tree history, which is of course fascinating and absolutely worthy of exploring. Thanks to Leonardo PavkovicFind albums by this artist, the one-man musical army who made it all possible at the time as a tour organizer and now as the owner of the MoonJuneFind albums on this label label, which released this music on record. Pavkovic tells the story behind the music in the album’s booklet, but the story of his collected activities can fill a huge volume, hopefully to be properly written. Proud to be your Friend, Amigo!
| | Updated: 25/04/2021Posted: 25/04/2021 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | SUPERSISTER ~ ISKANDER
ESOTERIC 2058 (Barcode: 5013929715820) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2008
4th and last album by the brilliant Dutch band SupersisterFind albums by this artist, which almost singlehandedly were Europe´s answer to the British Canterbury scene. Often compared to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (circa "ThirdFind albums with this title"), in fact the group is more comparable to later Canterbury groups like Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist and even later CaravanFind albums by this artist, although chronologically they preceded these groups by several years. Obviously influenced by Soft Machine´s jazzy free improvisational excursions, the band was also influenced by many other experimental Rock (Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist), Jazz musicians and contemporary Classical composers. Following the recording of the previous album, the band´s flautist and drummer left to pursue their careers were replaced by a new drummer and the great American-born but living in Europe saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist. Naturally as the result the band´s music became even more Jazzy. The album was recorded in England (with some guest musicians) and this time it was a concept work dedicated to Alexander the Great. Unfortunately soon after the album was recorded Mariano left and the group disbanded, after the legendary Elton DeanFind albums by this artist played with tem for a while, leaving us the legacy of four wonderful albums.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT WYATT ~ THE END OF AN EAR
COLUMBIA 493342 (Barcode: 5099749334229) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 1998
1st album by drummer / keyboardist / singer / composer and one of the Canterbury movement founding figures, Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, recorded while he was still a member of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist. Sadly often overlooked, this revolutionary recording shows Wyatt´s visionary approach to music and his deep involvement with the UK Avant-Garde Jazz scene, which was approaching a peak of its development at the time. Overall this album is more radically Jazz oriented than the music created by Soft Machine at the time, which was still related to Rock roots and essentially an extension of the early Jazz-Rock Fusion efforts. The only Soft Machine member appearing on this album is saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, who shared Wyatt´s passion for Jazz. The rest of the players are prominent UK Jazz musicians like bassist Neville WhiteheadFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Mark CharigFind albums by this artist, pianist Mark ElidgeFind albums by this artist and Canterbury legend Dave SinclairFind albums by this artist on organ. Wyatt composed all the music except one tune, which is a Gil EvansFind albums by this artist composition heavily arranged by Wyatt. Wyatt´s drumming on this album is spectacular, completely unique in his rhythmic approach and closely related in the form of collective improvisation to the expressions of his partners. One can only imagine how Wyatt´s involvement with the British Avant-Garde Jazz scene would have developed, if not for the tragic accident, which cut short his drumming career. Therefore this album becomes even more historically important, presenting that aspect of the man´s genius. For listeners acquainted with Wyatt´s later years, this album should be quite a revelation, although probably a much tougher musical challenge. In retrospect this album remains as essential document of an era, when breaking musical barriers was completely acceptable and music was making giant steps towards a new horizon. This is a visionary work in every respect, which should be cherished and returned to periodically, to be re-discovered. A must for any serious music lover!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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