Record Reviews
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  | NEIL ARDLEY ~ MIKE TAYLOR REMEMBERED
DUSK FIRE 103 (Barcode: 5065001032011) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007
The short and tragic life of pianist / composer Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist, an eccentric genius fallen victim to mental illness / drug abuse, which proved self-destructive and led to his death at the age of 29, is surely worthy a script adaptation for a Martin ScorseseFind albums by this artist movie. Sometimes referred to as “the Syd BarrettFind albums by this artist of British Jazz”, Taylor had close ties with a relatively small group of musicians, like Graham BondFind albums by this artist and the members of his Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, which included Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist – soon to be founders of CreamFind albums by this artist. Many people will be surprised to learn that three songs co-written by Ginger and Mike appear on Cream’s Wheels Of FireFind albums with this title album (“Pressed Rat And Warthog”, “Those Were The Days” and “Passing The Time”). Another one of his superb songs – “Jumping Off The Sun” – was recorded by ColosseumFind albums by this artist and appears on several of their albums.
Although known intimately by very few people at the time, the legend lives on and periodically the flame of interest is rekindled among the modern British Jazz fans, like in the case of reissue of his only two existing recordings: PendulumFind albums with this title and TrioFind albums with this title. Even fewer people are aware of the spectacular tribute album recorded by Taylor’s musician friends three years after his death. Recorded under the musical direction of another British Jazz legendary figure, composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, who discovered Taylor’s genius immediately and scored some of his compositions for the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist when Taylor was still alive. Unfortunately the concert, which was to feature NJO and Mike’s trio never materialized, since Taylor (already very ill at the time) simply missed the gig. Nevertheless Ardley continued to use Taylor’s music as part of the regular NJO repertoire and suggested to Denis PrestonFind albums by this artist, owner of the legendary Lansdowne Studios in London, where most of the pivotal modern British Jazz was recorded, to produce a tribute album to Mike Taylor’s musical genius. Preston, who recorded the two Taylor albums, needed no persuasion and funded the complex and costly project with no hesitation, considering it a most appropriate gesture.
Ardley assembled a group of 20 musicians to record this project, sharing the scoring of the music for a large ensemble with others, who were close to Taylor and new him well, like Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist and Dave GellyFind albums by this artist. One of the tracks is based on a previously unreleased Taylor quartet recording, with the ensemble overdubbed on top of the original recording, which makes Taylor’s participation in this project almost “in person” as well as “in spirit”. The list of the participating musicians reads like the who’s who of modern British Jazz and includes among others: Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Chris PyneFind albums by this artist and David HorlerFind albums by this artist on trombone, Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist and Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist on saxophone, Peter LemerFind albums by this artist and Alan BranscombeFind albums by this artist on piano, Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist on bass, Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist on drums and of course the divine Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist on vocals. I can’t think of a more appropriate tribute than this one, full of love, dedication and music genius by all the people involved.
Considering the fact that this album combines the genius of Taylor’s Jazz composition with the genius of Ardley’s Jazz scoring / arranging, we get (in mathematical terms) a genius squared result – a rare event indeed. Recommending this album would be somewhat similar to recommending someone to read some Joyce or see a van Gogh – completely superfluous. I’m sure you get the drift by now!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER ~ FALLING OFF THE ROOF
WOUNDED BIRD 2900 (Barcode: 664140290020) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2006
2nd album by the Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist trio, which includes two jazz giants: Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist on guitar and Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist on bass. Baker is of course mostly known as a rock superstar for his role in the legendary CreamFind albums by this artist (also a drums / bass / guitar trio), but since the 1990s he returned to active duty as a jazz drummer, with a variety of projects in the jazz realm, this trio being one of them. Of course Baker always was a jazz drummer, long before he played for rock audiences. His work with the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist in the early / mid 1960s is just one of the manifestations of his jazz background, but it even goes far back to the 1950s UK trad bands. Baker was always one of the most original drummers and generations of drummers studied his every beat. He is heavily influenced by African rhythms and he played and studied African percussion for many years. All this adds up to make him a most atypical jazz drummer, immediately distinguishable from any of his peers. The sound and the music are quite different from most guitar trios, to some extent due to Baker’s unusual approach to drums, but also due to the choice of the material. Only two standards (by Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist and Charlie ParkerFind albums by this artist) are present, all the rest of the music was penned by the trio members. The level is of course none less than exceptional, only to be expected from such distinguished players. This is a very interesting and different jazz album, worthy of investigation.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER ~ HORSES AND TREES
CELLULOID 6126 (Barcode: 5060767443576) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1985 Released: 2022
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by British Rock / Jazz drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, recorded by an international team of musician, which included Indian violinist L. ShankarFind albums by this artist, American bassist Bill LaswellFind albums by this artist, who also produced the album, Brazilian percussionist Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist, American (of Greek origins) guitarist Nicky SkopelitisFind albums by this artist, Senegalese drummer Aiyb DiengFind albums by this artist and others. The album presents six tracks, composed mostly by Laswell and on some tracks co-composed by Baker and other participating musicians.
The music is a unique amalgam of rhythmic motives and World Music melodic influences, with a strong ambient production influences, which was highly experimental at the time of the recording. The trance / hypnotic atmosphere features heavy drum parts by Baker and other percussionists, with ethnic melodic influences and Jazz improvisations on top, definitely a weird mixture, but hardly surprising as Baker proved always that he eschews all forms of conventional approach in music.
This album is a singular document of Baker’s 1980s recorded output, which was a transition period between his interest in World Music and his gradual return to Jazz from the 1990s on.
Overall, this is a very unique piece of music, which shows Baker as a non-conventional explorer, not afraid of new (at the time) musical approaches and of course as a great drummer, a status which he maintained for his entire lifetime. This album might prove to be revelatory to many young listeners and musicians, who never came across his name.
| | Updated: 11/06/2023Posted: 11/06/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER ~ LIVE IN LONDON 2009
FLOATING WORLD 6091 (Barcode: 805772609129) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2011
This is a CD / DVD album by iconic British Rock / Jazz drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, recorded live at London’s Jazz Café on November 4th, 2009 with an excellent team, which features American guitarist Chris GossFind albums by this artist, Ghanaian percussionist Abass DodooFind albums by this artist, British saxophonist Pete KingFind albums by this artist and Swedish bassist Jonas HellborgFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, which are a mixture of Jazz standards, original compositions and African Folk songs. The DVD offers the video document of the gig.
The music offers a somewhat semi-formal 70th birthday celebration party, a gig which certainly wasn’t intended for release on an album, but the sound quality is pretty good and the music is everything one would expect from such an informal gathering of great musicians, and is a rare document of the late period of Baker’s career, which ended with his demise in 2019.
Overall, although not spectacular, this is a worthy addition to Baker’s recorded legacy, which was as extensive as one might have hoped for, certainly from the last years of his life, especially when accompanied of a video document. Definitely worth checking out.
| | Updated: 09/03/2024Posted: 09/03/2024 | CD+DVD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER ~ WHY?
MOTEMA 148 (Barcode: 181212001488) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014
This is the final album by British drummer / composer / bandleader Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet format with American saxophonist Pee Wee EllisFind albums by this artist, bassist Alec DankworthFind albums by this artist and Ghanaian percussionist Abass DodooFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, three of which are Baker’s original compositions, one is by Ellis, two are standards, one is a traditional Nigerian tune and one is a composition by American trumpeter Ron MilesFind albums by this artist, composed especially for Baker.
Following an illustrious career in Rock, Blues-Rock and World-Rock music with Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, CreamFind albums by this artist, Blind FaithFind albums by this artist and other acts, Baker returned gradually to Jazz, which was his initial playground in the early 1960s, when he played on the London’s Jazz scene and studied drums with the legendary Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist. Since the early 1980s he released a series of Jazz oriented albums, of which this was his last. He died in 2019 following a long period of illness.
The music is soaked in Baker’s deep involvement with African rhythmic traditions, which in fact dominated his entire career and made his to study African music, including a residence in Nigeria in the 1970s. The resulting Jazz-World Fusion is highly spiritual and intimate. The small format makes this album especially interesting, enabling every little nuance of Baker’s incredible drumming technique to be perfectly audible. Dankworth’s contributions herein are also marvelous.
Overall, this is an almost completely overlooked album by one of the greatest British / European drummers of all time, which definitely is worth exploring and deservers a proper place in any serious album collection. Listeners interesting in drums and especially in African drumming, should seek this little gem out.
| | Updated: 05/03/2023Posted: 05/03/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / AFRICAN FRIENDS ~ LIVE IN BERLIN GERMANY 1978
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 057 (Barcode: 604388738328) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker playing with his old friend Fela Anikulapo KutiFind albums by this artist and his ensemble Africa 70Find albums by this artist during the Berlin Jazzfest. In many respects this recording is a culmination of Baker´s long association with African music and his Jazz-World Fusion, before his return to more conventional Jazz music. Definitely worth investigating, especially in view of the fact that the sound quality on this album is quite excellent.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / AIR FORCE ~ AIR FORCE
LEMON 022 (Barcode: 5013929762220) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2004
1st album by the legendary ensemble Air ForceFind albums by this artist, formed by drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist following the collapse of the two Rock super-groups he was a member of: CreamFind albums by this artist and Blind FaithFind albums by this artist. Baker formed the ensemble to pursue the music he was truly interested in, which included Jazz and African Music. He managed to persuade a large number of British luminaries to join forces in this ambitious project, creating a first of its kind Jazz-Rock-World Fusion ensemble. The list of the participants reads like a who´s who of the British music scene at the time and includes: Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist (organ and vocals) and Rick GrechFind albums by this artist (bass) – both ex-Blind Faith, Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Denny LaineFind albums by this artist, Chris WoodFind albums by this artist, the great Harold McNairFind albums by this artist and Baker´s revered teacher and legendary British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist. The first album was recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall and was originally released as a double LP. The music is a wonderful mixture of Jazz, Rock and World Music, performed with passion and virtuosity. The lengthy tracks allow for extended instrumental improvisations and the two drummers have ample opportunity to engage in mighty duels. In retrospect the album is visionary and educational, allowing a glimpse at a time when musical dreams were realized. This pioneering effort is a wonderful legacy for generations to come and includes many unforgettable moments. Unavailable for decades, this CD reissue is a wonderful opportunity to get familiar with a piece of musical legacy, which remains untouched by time. Absolutely not to be missed!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / AIR FORCE ~ LIVE IN THE STADTHALLE OFFENBACH GERMANY 1970
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 055 (Barcode: 604388738120) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker´s revolutionary Jazz-World Fusion ensemble Air ForceFind albums by this artist, which he founded following the demise of CreamFind albums by this artist. Air Force recorded only two albums during its short life-span, and any additional material by the band is invaluable. Baker assembled a formidable group of top British Jazz players of the period, augmented by African vocalists and drummers. The fact that this album features the talents of the legendary saxophonist / organist Graham BondFind albums by this artist is alone worth the price, but other great players are also present: organist / guitarist Ken CraddockFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Steve GregoryFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Bud BeadleFind albums by this artist, bassist Colin GibsonFind albums by this artist and others. The material is similar to the material present on the two Air Force albums, but several surprises are heard here for the first time, like the group´s version of Cream´s "Sunshine Of Your Love". Most of the pieces include extended improvised parts, with the saxophonist taking solos in tandem. Definitely worth investigating, provided you´re not squeamish about sound quality.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / ENERGY ~ LIVE IN MILAN ITALY 1980
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 058 (Barcode: 604388738427) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker´s ensemble EnergyFind albums by this artist, which he founded in 1979, marking his return to Rock for a while. Energy recorded only one live album during its short life-span (it was released over a decade later), and any additional material by the band is invaluable. Baker assembled a formidable group featuring the talents of guitarists John MizarolliFind albums by this artist and Whitey DavisFind albums by this artist, keyboardist David LennoxFind albums by this artist and bassist Henry ThomasFind albums by this artist. The material is mostly Blues-Rock based, with Mizarolli playing some incredible solos. Definitely worth investigating, provided you´re not squeamish about sound quality.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / SALT ~ LIVE IN MUNICH GERMANY 1972
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 056 (Barcode: 604388738229) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker´s ensemble SaltFind albums by this artist, which he founded following the demise of Air ForceFind albums by this artist. Salt never recorded any albums during its short life-span, and therefore this material by the band is invaluable. In Salt Baker assembled a group of British Jazz players, which played in the last Air Force lineup, augmented by African vocalists and drummers, taking an even more radical step towards World-Jazz Fusion. Some great players are present: saxophonist / flautist Steve GregoryFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Bud BeadleFind albums by this artist and others. But the great surprise of this recording is the participation of the legendary Jazz drummer Art BlakeyFind albums by this artist, who "battles" with Baker in a series of drum exchanges. Definitely worth investigating, especially in view of the fact that the sound quality on this album is quite excellent, as it originates from a TV recording made of the concert.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BBM ~ AROUND THE NEXT DREAM
VIRGIN 724358367324 (Barcode: 724358367324) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1993 - 1994 Released: 2003
This is an expanded reissue / remaster of the only album by the short-lived British BBMFind albums by this artist trio, which comprised of three legendary figures: drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and guitarist / vocalist Gary MooreFind albums by this artist. The original album presented ten tracks and this edition adds four bonus tracks, two of which were recorded live and two others are outtakes. Most of the songs were co-written by Moore and Bruce, some with the help of Kip HanrahanFind albums by this artist and a couple of Blues standards are also present.
The sound and feel of the album is remarkably close to that of the iconic CreamFind albums by this artist, which is hardly surprising. The production is of course much more polished and the almost thirty years separating this trio from Cream made its impact, but overall the resemblance is remarkable, almost as if this could be the album Cream never recorded.
Moore plays some outstanding guitar here, obviously with a wink towards Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, and Bruce is in top form singing his heart out, as is Baker beating the hell out of the drums.
For some and incomprehensible reason this album was almost completely ignored at the time of its release in 1994, which proves that music went to the drain by that time, as it is an absolute classic example of the British Rock tradition and formidable Blues-Rock recording.
Overall, this is an absolute marvel of an album, completely neglected and deserving being remembered. It offers brilliant songwriting and superb instrumental performances completely absent from today’s Rock scene. An absolute must in any decent Rock record collection!
| | Updated: 19/03/2024Posted: 19/03/2024 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLIND FAITH ~ LIVE IN LOS ANGELES
LONDON CALLING 5056 (Barcode: 5053792505616) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2020
The British supergroup Blind FaithFind albums by this artist existed briefly for just a few months in 1969, but remains an icon of Classic Rock to this very day. Guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist (ex-CreamFind albums by this artist), vocalist / keyboardist Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist (ex-TrafficFind albums by this artist) and bassist Rick GrechFind albums by this artist (ex-FamilyFind albums by this artist) recorded just one legendary album and then went on a short European tour followed by an American tour, and then disbanded.
This album is a new release of one of several bootlegs recorded during the a.m. tours, and is a bootleg of the bootlegs, as the cover work simply copes two earlier bootleg covers. The title is even more misleading, since Blind Faith never actually performed in Los Angeles, and this album presents the material recorded during their Oakland performance and other material, which of course was previously released.
But bootlegging apart, the music is of course fantastic, and even the sound quality is acceptable, considering the circumstances. Clapton’s lengthy guitar solos are a reminder of the Cream days, Winwood’s heartwrenching vocals and excellent keyboards playing are just right on, Baker is an unstoppable drumming machine and Grech, although low in the mix, is supporting amicably. In short there is everything a hardcore guitar freaks and Classic Rock addicts really love.
Overall, although there is nothing new here, if you don’t have an earlier copy of this bootleg, it is an essential piece of music history.
Side Note
Obiterdictum Ltd, a company based in Cyprus (oh well you know the story… copyright laws and legal issues) releases mostly live recorded radio broadcasts from the 1960s on and offers an amazing source of music which was never officially released by some of the best Classic Rock and Jazz artists. The catalogue offers five hundred releases, which is an absolute treasure chest of music history, often appearing for the first time.
Although the sound quality and sometimes also music quality range from absolutely brilliant to pretty poor, most of the material is surely listenable, especially after being remastered recently, and more importantly offers music which is not available elsewhere.
The company releases the albums under several sub-labels: Air CutsFind albums on this label, EchoesFind albums on this label, Hi HatFind albums on this label, HotspurFind albums on this label, InterferenceFind albums on this label, KeyholeFind albums on this label, KlondikeFind albums on this label, Live On VinylFind albums on this label, London CallingFind albums on this label, OrbitFind albums on this label, Rox VoxFind albums on this label and Sound StageFind albums on this label. There is no ironclad logic as to what material appears on which label, except perhaps some internal considerations by the Obiterdictum owners.
Approach with caution, but keep in mind that some of these releases are absolutely brilliant!
| | Updated: 04/04/2021Posted: 04/04/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLIND FAITH ~ LONDON HYDE PARK 1969
SANCTUARY 0090 (Barcode: 5050749500908) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2005
Captured live in front of 100,000 (or more) people gathered in London’s Hyde Park, here is the world’s first “super group”, Blind FaithFind albums by this artist, playing their debut gig on June 7th, 1969. Surely a momentous occasion and a premiere piece of Rock’s history, this footage is seen here for the first time in its entirety. The group existed for just a very brief period of time and left as its legacy just one eponymous album, but its historical importance stretches way beyond that. Blind Faith was a proof that greatly talented musicians can work together, in spite of their different backgrounds and experiences, creating momentous music. The “super group” phenomenon would become ever so popular in the 1970s, but the pioneering effort that was Blind Faith would forever stay in our collective memory as one of Rock’s giant steps. The collective talents of guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, vocalist / keyboardist Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist, bassist Rick GrechFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist represented the formative years and experiences of British Rock in the 1960s. They played in some of the most important bands of the 1960s: Spencer Davis GroupFind albums by this artist, Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, CreamFind albums by this artist, TrafficFind albums by this artist and FamilyFind albums by this artist – all icons and remarkable Rock achievers. The music they created together in Blind Faith is (especially in retrospect) quite surprising and different that anything done before. Anticlimactic and relaxed, it allowed them to take a much-deserved break from the emotional (and physical) extremities they all experienced with their former groups. The change is most evident and personalized by Clapton, who left behind the high-volume, heavy, fuzz saturated guitar style he used with Cream and dramatically changed it into a subdued, relaxed and laid-back guitar playing, which was to be his new “thing”, as evident on his recordings from that moment on. He was still one of the best players around, but simply not trying to prove it any more. Winwood’s vocals, dramatic and soulful as always, were of course the group’s trademark and here he reached maturity (in spite of his young age) for the first time. Baker’s drumming is inventive, as always, but again the relaxed atmosphere allows for his incredibly melodic playing to he really heard. Grech is solid and supportive all the way, with his elegance and sensibility at their best. But of course not everything is perfect here – the gig was played in the midst of the recordings for the album and the material is obviously still being in the “working” phase, with charming imperfection and numerous glitches. Nevertheless it does work charmingly and listening to this stuff almost 40 years later still gives me the shivers. What a teat! Dolby Digital Stereo Sound, 73 minutes.
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ LIVE AT THE BBC AND OTHER STORIES
REPERTOIRE 1279 (Barcode: 4009910127926) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1962 - 1972 Released: 2015
This is a Box Set of archival material by British saxophonist / organist / composer / bandleader Graham BondFind albums by this artist, one of the most idiosyncratic and pioneering figures of the British Jazz, Jazz-Rock and Prog scenes. The material collected here consists mostly of recordings made by the BBC, but includes also some ultra-rare home recordings, demos and other ditties, covering the period between 1962 and 1972, which more or less presents Bond´s entire career before his tragic death in 1974, aged just 36 at the time.
Regardless of what various music history sources have to say, Bond is singlehandedly responsible for the creation of the Jazz-Rock idiom around 1963, when he formed the Graham Bond QuartetFind albums by this artist, which featured guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist (which were all destined to become superstars in the years to follow). The quartet amalgamated Bond´s experience with the Jazz world, gained while he was a member of the Don RendellFind albums by this artist Quintet, with the exploding Rhythm And Blues phenomenon, creating the earliest manifestation of Jazz-Rock known to man. One session of the Don Rendell Quintet with Bond as its member is included here and it also features as a guest musician saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who would become another of Bond´s close associates when he formed the seminal Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist in 1965, which was later joined by the celebrated drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. Following the Organization´s breakup Bond formed the Graham Bond InitiationFind albums by this artist and later on collaborated with the poet / lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, who wrote also the booklet that accompanies this Box Set. Their recordings together are the last (chronologically) tracks in this collection.
The music included in this collection is of varied quality and sometimes of pretty Lo-Fi sound quality, even after it was carefully restored and remastered, but it is of enormous historic importance, as it documents not only Bond´s career but in fact the entire British Jazz scene, which was experiencing at that time a tremendous upheaval and explosion of new talents and ideological modifications of the very fabric of Jazz, which was parting from the American dominance and creating a new variety of the idiom, which would crystallize as European Jazz, spawning Jazz-Rock in the process.
Bond´s performances on the Hammond Organ are all superbly executed and it makes perfect sense that they influenced an entire generation of British musicians, who invented Progressive Rock next, such a Jon LordFind albums by this artist of Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist, Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist of ColosseumFind albums by this artist, Brian AugerFind albums by this artist and of course many others. In general the music portrays the atmosphere of the British scene at the time, where genres and classifications were pretty arbitrary and where the Jazz / Rock / Prog idioms were influencing and embracing each other with ease and natural affinity.
Kudos to the German RepertoireFind albums on this label label, which is one of the most important sources of reissues, for the meticulous work done on this set and for bringing this material back to life. This set continues the work done by Repertoire on the previous Graham Bond Box Set called "Wade In The Water – Classics, Origins and OdditiesFind albums with this title", which covers the recordings by Graham Bond Organization. Together these two Box Sets pay tribute to one of the greatest heroes of the British Jazz / Jazz-Rock pioneering figures, who is sadly often forgotten and is rarely given the credit he deserves for his revolutionary creativity.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 01/04/2016 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ SOLID BOND
COLLECTORS` CHOICE 2000 (Barcode: 617742200027) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1963 - 1966 Released: 2009
If there ever was a quintessential Jazz-Rock album, which practically not only is the first recorded example of the genre, but also defines it unequivocally, this is it! The music herein was initially released as a double LP for the first time in 1970, but it consists of two sessions recorded earlier by the legendary British saxophonist / organist / vocalist Graham BondFind albums by this artist, the earlier one in 1963 and the later in 1966. These two sessions, diametrically different and yet completely unified in spirit, present a miniscule window into the time-space continuum, which enables us to take a peek at the most feverish period in British music, where invention and pioneering breakthrough were happening on a daily basis. The first of these two sessions is not only the first recording of the emerging Jazz-Rock genre but also the recording debut of one of its future heroes, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. The Graham Bond Quartet, captured live in London´s legendary Klooks Kleek club consisted of Bond (on sax), McLaughlin, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist on acoustic bass and Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist on drums. They played a unique brand of modern jazz, which combined the elements of Free Jazz, Swing and Rock (or Rhythm And Blues), basically inventing the Jazz-Rock Fusion on the fly. Although the music is predominantly Jazzy, Baker´s rhythmic approach, Bond´s phrasing and McLaughlin´s scales all included clear Rock innuendos. During the period separating the first session and the second one, Bond formed the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, which recorded a couple of LPs in 1965 ("The Sound Of 65Find albums with this title" and "There`s A Bond Between UsFind albums with this title") and practically fell apart after Bruce and Baker left to form CreamFind albums by this artist. The second recording features another interim quartet with Bond (this time on organ), saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Bruce (who double-gigged between Cream and some Jazz activities) and the young and upcoming drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The music recorded during this session is already full-fledged Fusion, with Jazz being tightly incorporated with Blues, Rhythm And Blues and Rock, similar to the patterns perfected during the Organization days. Some of the material appears on the Organization recordings, other was new, but the overall quality is of course everlasting. Shortly after this recording Heckstall-Smith and Hiseman left Bond to join John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and later formed the mighty ColosseumFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this album, although relatively little known by Jazz-Rock enthusiasts, is a holy grail of the genre and an essential piece of any serious music collection. Unavailable for years, the CD recent reissue is a major contribution to preservation of this superb musical achievement. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND / PETE BROWN ~ TWO HEADS ARE BETTER THAN ONE
ESOTERIC 2042 (Barcode: 5013929714229) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
It was inevitable that the two British icons saxophonist / keyboardist / composer Graham BondFind albums by this artist and vocalist / trumpeter / lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist would eventually find themselves in one band. After all they rubbed shoulders for over a decade before this album was recorded, both being members of a circle of musicians with many mutual friends like bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist (who co-wrote most of the CreamFind albums by this artist material with Brown, as well as all the material on his early solo albums and who was a member of the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist (also members of the Organization) and several others. When they both found themselves out of job, getting together was the natural solution. The only album this band recorded is one of the wackiest – mind you in a most wonderful way – albums created at the time. Completely beyond any stylistic limitations Bond and Brown just seem to have a great time, playing and singing together accompanied by some superb instrumentalists. Expect the unexpected here, with Brown´s witty lyrics and Bond´s excellent keyboards work both on organ and acoustic piano. Sadly this album turned out to be Bond´s last studio recording before he perished in a terrible accident / alleged suicide two years later. With his death the British Jazz-Rock scene lost its original forefather. Definitely worth checking out and a must to all Bond and Brown fans.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ A QUESTION OF TIME
ACADIA 8155 (Barcode: 805772815520) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2007
This is a superb album by the great Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who returns to active duty after several years of silence, with an incredible set of new songs, most of which are co-written with his lifetime friend, lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Surrounded by a dreamy support band, which features such distinguished musicians as guitarists Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, Vernon ReidFind albums by this artist and Jimmy RippFind albums by this artist, old-timers: pianist Nicky HopkinsFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, World Music stars like Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist and Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist and others, Bruce delivers his incredible vocals and plays keyboards and of course bass, creating one of his best albums ever. An absolute must for every Bruce fan on earth!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ A QUESTION OF TIME
ESOTERIC 2270 (Barcode: 5013929737020) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2011
This is a superb album by the great Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who returns to active duty after several years of silence, with an incredible set of new songs, most of which are co-written with his lifetime friend, lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Surrounded by a dreamy support band, which features such distinguished musicians as guitarists Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, Vernon ReidFind albums by this artist and Jimmy RippFind albums by this artist, old-timers: pianist Nicky HopkinsFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, World Music stars like Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist and Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist and others, Bruce delivers his incredible vocals and plays keyboards and of course bass, creating one of his best albums ever. An absolute must for every Bruce fan on earth!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ THE 50TH BIRTHDAY CONCERTS
MIG 90610 (Barcode: 885513906106) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2014
This Box Set is a document of the two concerts organized in order to celebrate the 50th Birthday of British vocalist / bassist / composer Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest figures of Rock / Blues-Rock / Prog-Rock and Jazz-Rock. These concerts took place on November 2nd and 3rd of 1993 and were recorded and videoed for posterity. The Box Sets includes two DVDs which present the music played during the two nights (totaling in almost four hours of unadulterated Jack Bruce genius) and in addition it also includes a third DVD with an extensive collection of interviews with Bruce and his guests recorded at the time and a CD with another hour of music, which is not included on the two concert DVDs. In short about six hours of Jack Bruce, his music and his unique personality, which made his one of the most respected and admired musicians of the 20th Century.
Bruce invited a formidable stable of musicians / friends to come and play with him during these two days, a list of which reads like the who´s who of British Rock and includes: guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and Gary MooreFind albums by this artist, drummers Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist and Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist, pianist / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, organist Bernie WorrellFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and Art ThemenFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonist John MumfordFind albums by this artist and vocalists Gary "Mudbone" CooperFind albums by this artist and Maggie ReillyFind albums by this artist. Poet / lyricist / vocalist and a lifetime friend of Bruce, the incredible Pete BrownFind albums by this artist also makes an appearance. With such lineup the music is simply exploding with talent and incredible performances.
The music includes a selection of mostly Bruce originals, spanning from the glorious CreamFind albums by this artist days and through all the solo albums Bruce recorded after Cream disbanded. His brilliant compositions prove again that they are completely resistant to the passing of time, and present a fabulous legacy that will stay with us forever.
My personal favorite part of the concert is the last hour on the second DVD, which presents just the trio of Baker, Bruce and Moore, playing a series of Cream favorites, which is simply breathtaking and presents an "alternative" Cream vision, which is in every respect as exciting as the original group with Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist. The absence of Clapton is in fact a great disappointment and might have been a momentous occasion, but it was corrected twelve years later during the Cream reunion concerts in 2005.
Overall this is a package no lover of Classic Rock will consider to miss, especially in view of the fact that some of the people captured here are no longer with us (Heckstall-Smith, Moore and of course Bruce himself). Since nobody makes music like this any more, this stuff is even more important today for the sake of the new generation, in case it´s not completely lost yet.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 03/05/2016 | 3DVD+CD 4 Digipak Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ FRESH CREAM (SUPER DELUXE EDITION)
POLYDOR 602557185515 (Barcode: 602557185515) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2017
This is a reissue / archival Box Set presenting the music recorded by the iconic British Rock / Blues-Rock band CreamFind albums by this artist and released on their debut album “Fresh CreamFind albums with this title”. The Box Set includes three CDs and one Blue-ray and is lavishly packaged with a hardcover book with an essay, song lyrics and many photographs.
CD1 presents mono mixes, which include the album (ten tracks), one outtake, three singles and two EPs with alternate mixes and alternate masters. CD2 presents stereo mixes, which include the album, three session recordings and seven previously unreleased alternate mixes. CD3 presents eleven outtakes, early versions and alternate mixes, all bar one previously unreleased and sixteen BBC recordings (only two previously unreleased), captured at four different sessions. The Blue-ray Disk presents the US mono and stereo versions of the album and the three additional tracks, all in 24/96 High Resolution audio.
Cream, the first supergroup, were obviously a groundbreaking musical step, which combined the Manfred MannFind albums by this artist bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, creating a true one of a kind monster, which was about to change Blues-Rock and Rock like no other group ever did before them. In many respects they still reverberate in every Rock album recorded since 1996, when they recorded the music included herein.
All three Cream members were geniuses in they own right of course, but it was Jack Bruce who wrote all the original material on this album together with the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist (except one tune by Baker, which was mostly a drum solo), with the rest of the material being traditional Blues pieces. The combination of Blues with Rock riffs and heavy sound was of course the cradle of Blues-Rock as we know it.
Overall, this is one of the most revolutionary Rock albums of all time, which opened completely new opportunities of cross-genre pollination and the opened the Golden Decade of music, during which most of the music worth listening to was created. For Cream fanatics this is of course an essential piece of the puzzle, but most veteran Cream followers already have all the material here in one form or another. Nevertheless, this golden classic deserves to be treated with respect, today perhaps more so than ever.
| | Updated: 29/09/2021Posted: 29/09/2021 | 3CD+BD 4 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ GOODBYE TOUR LIVE 1968
POLYDOR 602577952999 (Barcode: 602577952999) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2019
This is an archival Box Set collecting four live shows by the iconic British supergroup CreamFind albums by this artist, recorded during the groups final American tour in October 1968 (Oakland, LA and San Diego) and the final UK concert at the Royal Albert Hall in November 1968. None of this material was previously released on CD. The 4CD set is lavishly packaged with a book full of great photographs and a lengthy essay by David FrickeFind albums by this artist.
Guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist managed to revolutionize Rock music during the short time they stayed together, pioneering everything that defines Rock by crystalizing its ingredients: riffs, Blues changes, power trio setting, extended soloing and most of all incredible inventiveness and stamina. Most of the original material in Cream’s repertoire was composed by Bruce, featuring lyrics by the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, but they also played their interpretations of Blues standards.
But Cream were also way beyond what is commonly defined as Rock. Bruce and Baker pioneered Jazz-Rock Fusion a few years earlier when playing in groups led by Graham BondFind albums by this artist, and both had Jazz upbringing in them, which often came to the surface during their lengthy improvisations, which characterized their live performances. Clapton, who did not have a Jazz background, invented the Rock improvisation singlehandedly, opening the path to many great guitar players that followed in his path as Rock improvisers: Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and others.
The music included in this Box Set is a wonderful opportunity to study the modus operandi Cream developed over time, and although the four concerts are based on a very similar set lists, each and every one of the four versions of the same tune are completely different in every aspect. There are subtle tempi changes, different dynamics, bass patterns and obviously each of the guitar solos is a world in itself.
Listening to the bass playing reveals the genius of Bruce, who was definitely the greatest virtuoso of the bass guitar in all times. Baker, who learned to play drums from the great British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist, was also one of the most unique Rock drummers of all times and his drum soli are absolutely unique to this very day. This album is a great tribute to these two Giants, both sadly no longer with us.
Overall, the music this album presents, despite of being five and a half decades old, is still some of the finest Rock achievements in the entire history of the genre. There is no need to recommend this album to veteran Rock fans, but there a billions of people who never even heard one note of this, which explains why this world looks like it does :) My suggestion to the Jazz lovers among my readers would be to give it a listen and discover not only how it swings, but also where the sources of the Jazz-Rock Fusion Nile originate from.
| | Updated: 28/01/2022Posted: 28/01/2022 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ LIVE IN SWEDEN AND THE USA
LONDON CALLING BOX 4 (Barcode: 5053792300433) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2021
This is an archival Box Set collecting three live shows by the iconic British supergroup CreamFind albums by this artist, recorded in Detroit in October 1967 on CD1 & CD2, in Stockholm in November 1967 on CD3 and finally in San Diego in October 1968 on CD4. The material is taken from radio broadcasts and offers iffy sound quality. The material on the last CD was also released on the “Goodbye Tour Live 1968Find albums with this title” Box Set, in much better sound quality.
Guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist managed to revolutionize Rock music during the short time they stayed together, pioneering everything that defines Rock by crystalizing its ingredients: riffs, Blues changes, power trio setting, extended soloing and most of all incredible inventiveness and stamina. Most of the original material in Cream’s repertoire was composed by Bruce, featuring lyrics by the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, but they also played their interpretations of Blues standards.
The music included in this Box Set is a wonderful opportunity to study the modus operandi Cream developed over time, and the time spans of just one year exhibits dramatic alteration in their stylistic approach and depth. The extended Rock improvisations that Cream pioneered, were a significant ingredient of their music, and went way beyond just long guitar solos played by other Rock guitarist, often bordering on early Jazz-Rock Fusion.
Listening to the bass playing reveals the genius of Bruce, who was definitely the greatest virtuoso of the bass guitar in all times. Baker, who learned to play drums from the great British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist, was also one of the most unique Rock drummers of all times and his drum soli are absolutely unique to this very day. This album is a great tribute to these two Giants, both sadly no longer with us.
Overall, the music this album presents, despite of being five and a half decades old, is still some of the finest Rock achievements in the entire history of the genre. There is no need to recommend this album to veteran Rock fans, but there a billions of people who never even heard one note of this, which explains why this world looks like it does :) My suggestion to the Jazz lovers among my readers would be to give it a listen and discover not only how it swings, but also where the sources of the Jazz-Rock Fusion Nile originate from.
Side Note
Obiterdictum Ltd, a company based in Cyprus (oh well you know the story… copyright laws and legal issues) releases mostly live recorded radio broadcasts from the 1960s on and offers an amazing source of music which was never officially released by some of the best Classic Rock and Jazz artists. The catalogue offers five hundred releases, which is an absolute treasure chest of music history, often appearing for the first time.
Although the sound quality and sometimes also music quality range from absolutely brilliant to pretty poor, most of the material is surely listenable, especially after being remastered recently, and more importantly offers music which is not available elsewhere.
The company releases the albums under several sub-labels: Air CutsFind albums on this label, EchoesFind albums on this label, Hi HatFind albums on this label, HotspurFind albums on this label, InterferenceFind albums on this label, KeyholeFind albums on this label, KlondikeFind albums on this label, Live On VinylFind albums on this label, London CallingFind albums on this label, OrbitFind albums on this label, Rox VoxFind albums on this label and Sound StageFind albums on this label. There is no ironclad logic as to what material appears on which label, except perhaps some internal considerations by the Obiterdictum owners.
Approach with caution, but keep in mind that some of these releases are absolutely brilliant!
| | Updated: 01/02/2022Posted: 01/02/2022 | CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ ROYAL ALBERT HALL LONDON MAY 2-3-5-6 2005
WARNER MUSIC VISION 70421 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
It takes titanium balls to on stage and try to reproduce a musical legend that happened almost 40 years earlier. Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist & Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist seem to have these and more, as they come out of this reunion effort with flying colors. Considering they are all in their 60`s now, the energy and sheer physical effort required must have been enormous. There is less fire and wild emotions here compared to the hay days, but perhaps that works in favor for the musicians and the listener - there is much refined and control, which were sometimes missing when they were young. The material spans the entire recording arsenal of CreamFind albums by this artist, from the debut album (Fresh CreamFind albums with this title) to the last studio recordings (GoodbyeFind albums by this artist) and any Cream fan can`t help but go through a deeply emotional state of bliss (I know I did) when listening to this stuff. Thank God and modern medicine for Jack`s successful liver transplant, which made all this possible. The DVD includes additional alternate takes and interviews with the musicians. Don´t even think twice!
| | | DVD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ ROYAL ALBERT HALL LONDON MAY 2-3-5-6 2005 (LIMITED EDITION)
REPRISE 49416 (Barcode: 093624941620) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
It takes titanium balls to go on stage and try to reproduce a musical legend that happened almost 40 years earlier. Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist & Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist seem to have these and more, as they come out of this reunion effort with flying colors. Considering they are all in their 60`s now, the energy and sheer physical effort required must have been enormous. There is less fire and wild emotions here compared to the hay days, but perhaps that works in favor for the musicians and the listener - there is much refined and control, which were sometimes missing when they were young. The material spans the entire recording arsenal of CreamFind albums by this artist, from the debut album (Fresh CreamFind albums with this title) to the last studio recordings (GoodbyeFind albums with this title) and any Cream fan can`t help but go through a deeply emotional state of bliss (I know I did) when listening to this stuff. Thank God and modern medicine for Jack`s successful liver transplant, which made all this possible. Don´t even think twice!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ THE FAREWELL CONCERT
BMG 864689 (Barcode: 743218646898) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2001
Although short-lived, British super-trio CreamFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly one of the greatest Rock phenomena in all times, influencing generation after generation of Rockers, decades after the last chord they played went silent forever. Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist created a complete new level of Rock expression, building upon the Blues tradition, turning the volume knob to the max and most importantly adding the element of improvisation, enabling them to extend the 3 minutes song format into half an hour epics. The combined talents of the trio amalgamated into a foray of ideas, mostly on the instrumental plateau. Bruce also contributed his extraordinary songwriting skills, which combined with the lyrics provided by poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist resulted in many Rock anthems, unsurpassed to this very day. Sadly on November 26th, 1968 Cream played their last concert together, announcing their intentions to disband shortly beforehand. The concert took place at London´s Royal Albert Hall with the BBC commissioning the filming of the event by director Tony PalmerFind albums by this artist. The result is an essential piece of music history, which every Rock fan on earth should see at least once, to comprehend the might and glory of this music. An edited version of the film was broadcasted on TV, but this DVD includes both the TV version and the full unedited version of the film. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, 80 minutes.
| | | DVD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALEXIS KORNER’S BLUES INCORPORATED ~ BBC SESSIONS VOL.1 1962-1965
RHYTHM AND BLUES 097 (Barcode: 5060331753742) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1962 - 1965 Released: 2024
This is an archival album, which presents recordings by Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist’s Blues IncorporatedFind albums by this artist, made in early 1960s by guitarist / pianist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Alexis Korner, the Godfather of British Blues. These recordings were made with a plethora of British Blues, Rock and Jazz musicians, reading like a who´s who of the British Blues / Blues-Rock / Rock And Roll / Jazz and early Jazz-Rock Fusion, comprising of dozens of names, which passed through Korner´s legendary group over time.
As bizarre as it might appear, Korner was a white Jewish boy, born in Paris, who arrived in the UK in 1940, escaping the Nazi persecution, and who in time almost singlehandedly reanimated the interest in the Blues on the local British scene, leading to a phenomenon called the British Blues Revival, which started by the mid-1950s and literally exploded by the mid-1960s, when it became the British Blues Boom. In retrospect this musical idiom proved to be one of the most fundamental cornerstones of British Rock, later spreading also to the European continent. Korner´s charismatic personality and influence were a decisive factor leading to the formation of such musical icons as Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, FreeFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, CreamFind albums by this artist, ColosseumFind albums by this artist and countless others. Korner continued his career until his untimely death in 1984.
The material collects recordings from six different sessions, a total of twenty-four tracks. The collective personnel taking part in these recordings includes, alongside Korner, vocalists Cyril DaviesFind albums by this artist, Long John BaldryFind albums by this artist and Herbie GoinsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist, Mick PyneFind albums by this artist, Nigel StangerFind albums by this artist, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and Bernie GeorgeFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Dave StevensFind albums by this artist, Johnny ParkerFind albums by this artist and Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, bassists Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist, drummers Charlie WattsFind albums by this artist, Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, Ronnie DunnFind albums by this artist and Terry CoxFind albums by this artist. It does not get any better than this, does it?
Overall, this album is full of magnificent music, presented in chronological order by date of recording, which is an absolute treasure chest and a historic document of the outmost importance. Although the sound quality of some of the tracks, especially the early ones, is a bit shaky, the importance of the music sets everything aside. This is an absolutely essential release to all British Blues connoisseurs!
| | Updated: 02/10/2024Posted: 01/10/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPLINTERS ~ INCLUSIVITY
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 26 (Barcode: 5060774190258) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2021
This is an archival 3CD album by British Jazz supergroup SplintersFind albums by this artist, which presents two live recordings, both from 1972, the first at the legendary London 100 Club (on CD 1 and 2) and the second from the opening night at the (then) newly opened Grass Roots club (on CD 3). The music was captured on cassettes and was carefully restored to today’s standard as far as possible. The 100 Club material was previously released in part by the Reel RecordingsFind albums on this label label in 2009 as “Split The DifferenceFind albums with this title”, and is here presented in its full form and the Grass Roots material is previously unreleased. The album is released in a lavish LP sized book format, and includes beautiful photographs by Jack KirbyFind albums by this artist and extensive essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist – an obvious work of love and dedication, which is the modus operandi of the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label.
The Splinters collective is truly unique in every sense, but the most striking trait of this ensemble is the meeting of generations, united by the inner urge to express their musical ideas as expressively and unrestrictedly as humanly possible. Three of the protagonists of this session, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist (b. 1926), who appears on CD 1 and 3 only, drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist (b. 1926) and saxophonist Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist (b. 1935) were already British Jazz legends at the time of this recording, with years of experience and established careers to their credit. All were immensely influential on the then growing up generation of the British New Wave of rebellious young players, who wished to emancipate the music they played from the restrictions of strict Jazz forms, patterns and rhythmical uniformity established since the genre´s conception and developed during its first half century in the USA.
Tracey, Seamen and Hayes were the necessary missing link between the Jazz tradition and the gradual but revolutionary development that occurred in British Jazz from the mid-1960s on. Surprisingly, Tracey and Seamen, both older than Hayes, proved to be the more adventurous, shunning from nothing and keeping their sensitivity completely up to date. Tracey fully embraced Free Jazz and Improvised Music and Seamen was active not only in the Jazz area, but also took part in early Jazz-Rock, Rock and even early World-Jazz activities, mainly through his faithful pupil and protégé Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist. Hayes remained somewhat more "conventional", expanding his Bebop approach with some freedom, but remaining firmly within the established parameters. Perhaps the future might have proved differently, but Hayes died prematurely just a year after this music was recorded.
The rest of the "crew" captured here: saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist (b. 1939), who taped this music and was the initiator behind Splinters, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (b. 1930), bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (b. 1937) and drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist (b. 1940), were the (not necessarily chronologically, but definitely spiritually) young Lions spearheading British Jazz into a new direction. The idea behind this session was to provide an open and most importantly completely free of any pre-conceptions environment for the musicians to express their ideas.
Overall, as with much contemporary Jazz at the time, the idea of free flow and mutual respectful listening is the core of creation here. The music consists of long improvised pieces, with no strict melody lines, but full of very "melodic" playing, which makes perfect sense musically. This is group improvisation at its best, full of musical interplay and mutual inspiration respectful of each other´s "moment" and bearing at each particular instant. In many respects this is a classic "textbook" recording, which could be used as a perfect demonstration of what group improvisation really is. As someone must have said sometime: "you can´t plan lovemaking", this music, although unplanned, is a pure work of love. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 07/12/2021Posted: 07/12/2021 | CD 3 Digibook Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPLINTERS ~ SPLIT THE DIFFERENCE
REEL RECORDINGS 013 (Barcode: 775020938328) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
The Canadian Reel Recordings label does it again! Following a series of splendid British Jazz archival releases, which expose many previously unheard musical creations during the Golden Age of British Jazz, this addition to its catalogue is perhaps the most sensational and revealing. Obviously the feverish activity, that characterized this unprecedented period, produced a vast amount of groundbreaking music, which unfortunately was only partially captured on tape. Therefore unearthing another piece of that wonderful puzzle is always exciting and educational.
The SplintersFind albums by this artist collective is truly unique in every sense, but the most striking trait of this ensemble is the meeting of generations, united by the inner urge to express their musical ideas as expressively and unrestrictedly as humanly possible. Three of the protagonists of this session, recorded live at the legendary 100 Club, London´s primary Jazz dungeon for many years, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist (b. 1926), drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist (b. 1926) and saxophonist Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist (b. 1935) were already British Jazz legends at the time of this recording, with years of experience and established careers to their credit. All were immensely influential on the then growing up generation of the British New Wave of rebellious young players, who wished to emancipate the music they played from the restrictions of strict Jazz forms, patterns and rhythmical uniformity established since the genre´s conception and developed during its first half century in the USA.
Tracey, Seamen and Hayes were the necessary missing link between the Jazz tradition and the gradual but revolutionary development that occurred in British Jazz from the mid-1960s on. Surprisingly, Tracey and Seamen, both older than Hayes, proved to be the more adventurous, shunning from nothing and keeping their sensitivity completely up to date. Tracey fully embraced Free Jazz and Improvised Music and Seamen was active not only in the Jazz area, but also took part in early Jazz-Rock, Rock and even early World-Jazz activities, mainly through his faithful pupil and protégé Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist. Hayes remained somewhat more "conventional", expanding his Bebop approach with some freedom, but remaining firmly within the established parameters. Perhaps the future might have proved differently, but Hayes died prematurely just a year after this music was recorded.
The rest of the "crew" captured here: saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist (b. 1939), who taped this music and was the initiator behind Splinters, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (b. 1930), bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (b. 1937) and drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist (b. 1940), were the (not necessarily chronologically, but definitely spiritually) young Lions spearheading British Jazz into a new direction. The idea behind this session was to provide an open and most importantly completely free of any pre-conceptions environment for the musicians to express their ideas.
As with much contemporary Jazz at the time, the idea of free flow and mutual respectful listening is the core of creation here. The music consists of two long (47 and 30 minutes) improvised pieces, with no strict melody lines, but full of very "melodic" playing, which makes perfect sense musically. This is group improvisation at its best, full of musical interplay and mutual inspiration respectful of each other´s "moment" and bearing at each particular instant. In many respects this is a classic "textbook" recording, which could be used as a perfect demonstration of what group improvisation really is. As someone must have said sometime: "you can´t plan lovemaking", this music, although unplanned, is a pure work of love. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 07/12/2021Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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