Record Reviews

NEIL ARDLEY ~ HARMONY OF THE SPHERES ESOTERIC 2096 (Barcode: 5013929719620) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1978 Released: 2008 Composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist was one of the brightest stars on the firmament of the magnificent British Jazz, which flourished in the 1960s and 1970s. His compositions were often performed by his peers and his magnificent recordings as a leader were musical milestones, cherished and admired to this very day. Sadly, his recorded legacy is rather limited and parts of it remain unreleased on CD, which is a true crime. Therefore any reissue of his music is a true feast and celebration. This album represent´s Ardley´s late period as active musician, shortly before he left the music scene almost for good, dedicating the later part of his life to writing books. It is also a clear symbol of Ardley´s transition as a composer, moving gradually from traditional Jazz forms to quite revolutionary contemporary Classical / Electronic / Ambient music, which although still contained strong Jazz elements (mainly improvised sections), was nevertheless a completely new compositional entity. As most of his ambitious compositions, the music is presented in a form of an extended suite, which makes a coherent whole and being divided into separate sections to emphasize the internal flow of the music. Ardley recruited a group of eleven musicians to record the album and as usual turned to his life-long friend and collaborator, trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist to become the main protagonist. The list of the participants reads like a dream come true of the British Jazz scene and includes reed players Tony CoeFind albums by this artist and Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist and vocalists Pepi LemerFind albums by this artist and Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist. Lesser known but no less talented contributors include bassist Bill KristianFind albums by this artist and drummer Richard BurgessFind albums by this artist. Guitarist John MartynFind albums by this artist is the surprising guest, who closes the list of participating musicians, and although primarily associated with Folk, delivers some heartbreaking guitar solos on this album. People familiar with these names will of course recognize the fact that most of these musicians were associated at one time or another with Ian Carr as members of his NucleusFind albums by this artist ensemble. In retrospect this album remains a major milestone of British music and a firm reminder of Ardley´s genius. Ardley, who died in 2004 (aged 66) will forever be a landmark figure and hopefully the younger generation will discover his magnificent music thank to reissues, like this one. An absolute must!

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NEIL ARDLEY ~ KALEIDOSCOPE OF RAINBOWS DUSK FIRE 101 (Barcode: 5060051330889) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1976 Released: 2005 Composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist left a remarkable mark on modern British Jazz in the 1960s and 1970s. As the musical director of the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist), Ardley was responsible for creation of the innovative Big Band / Orchestra sound, one of the great ingredients of modern British Jazz. Influenced by Gil EvansFind albums by this artist, another pioneering figure of Jazz orchestration, Ardley took the matters further, adopting rock elements into his scores and creating unique Jazz-Rock Orchestral music. His skills as a composer of large-scale suite-like scores were best documented by a series of recordings of his works. This album was a third in a series of such works and a final part of an orchestral trilogy, which started with "The Greek VariationsFind albums with this title" and continued with "A Symphony Of AmaranthsFind albums with this title". As usual in his case, the music is a multi-part orchestral suite, performed by a Jazz ensemble with plenty of space for extended improvisations by soloist. Having at his disposal the burgeoning British Jazz community of musicians, Ardley selected the excellent Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist as the core of this ensemble, expanding it with additional musicians he was used to work with. The list of players is most impressive and includes among others: Ian Carr on trumpet, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist and Stan SultzmannFind albums by this artist on saxophone, Tony CoeFind albums by this artist on clarinet, Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist and Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist on piano, Roger SuttonFind albums by this artist on bass and Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist on drums and vibraphone. The music moves between atmospheric soundscapes and highly rhythmic Jazz-Rock pieces, with excellent solos in each of the suite’s seven parts. In retrospect the music lost none of its original charm and beauty, and sadly one must admit: “they don’t make music like that any more”. Ardley was to produce one more orchestral masterpiece, called "Harmony Of The SpheresFind albums with this title", by the end of the 1970s, before the changing musical and economic climate eradicated ambitious / artistic music almost completely. He became a very successful writer and best-selling author before he died in 2004. I hope all of his splendid musical works will be properly reissued, including previously unreleased stuff left in his estate. As for this album, just grab a copy and take the A(rdley) train into musical lands of rare beauty – an experience you’ll never forget.

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NEIL ARDLEY ~ KALEIDOSCOPE OF RAINBOWS LIVE `75 JAZZ IN BRITAIN 21 (Barcode: 5060774190142) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 1975 Released: 2021 This is an archival album by British keyboardist / composer / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, which presents a live recording of his orchestral piece entitled “Kaleidoscope Of RainbowsFind albums with this title”, originally commissioned by the London Borough of Camden and supported by the Arts Council of Great Britain (those were the days!), premiered at the legendary Roundhouse in October of 1974 by a Jazz Big Band / Orchestra. The version performed here, one year later, is somewhat revised and expanded, recorded, with Ardley conducting of course, by a smaller and much tighter group of Top British Jazz musicians at the time, all of which took part in the studio recording of the seminal “Kaleidoscope Of Rainbows” album, which was recorded a few months later in 1976 and released the same year. The lineup includes the members of NucleusFind albums by this artist led by trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist with saxophonist Bob BertlesFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist, guitarist Ken ShawFind albums by this artist, bassist Roger SuttonFind albums by this artist and drummer Roger SellersFind albums by this artist. Additionally, the collective lineup adds saxophonists Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Tony CoeFind albums by this artist and Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist, cellist Paul BuckmasterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The lineup that recorded the studio album also included guests: saxophonist Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist and keyboardist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, who are not present here. The 2CD album presents sixteen tracks, timing at 103 minutes, which have been later combined and condensed into nine tracks, timing about half of that time, as released on the studio album. Therefore, this album, which presents the full extent of Ardley’s vision for his work, is extremely important and the fact that it is available here for the first time is truly a momentous occasion and a milestone of British Jazz history. “Kaleidoscope Of Rainbows” is the last part of a triptych of orchestral works by Ardley, which also includes the earlier “The Greek VariationsFind albums with this title” and “A Symphony Of AmaranthsFind albums with this title”. All three pieces are based on a concept of taking a limited musical element and expanding it into a large framework. Ardley would create one more orchestral piece a couple of years later (1978), called “Harmony Of The SpheresFind albums with this title”, before he embraced a career as author and composer of choral music. The music follows the pattern of earlier Ardley’s works, amalgamating Jazz with World Music elements and heavily influenced by the minimal music concepts of repetition and slowly developing / cyclic repetition, all brilliantly put together and masterly executed by all the participants. Although structurally the music is not Jazz per se, the soloing, improvising and phrasing are indeed very Jazzy (not surprisingly), and with the expanded format of the piece, are more prominently featured here that on the more disciplined studio version. Ardley, together with Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist constitute the triumvirate of the British Jazz orchestral composers / bandleaders, who offered a completely revised alternative to American Big Band Jazz, taking it into entirely new musical spheres, artistic heights and European aesthetic values, which still reverberate in contemporary music. As usual praise goes to the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label for unearthing this music and releasing it on CD. Please keep up the good work, as nobody else has the stamina, energy and passion to do it and these reissues are way too good to remain hidden in the vaults.

Updated: 03/07/2021Posted: 03/07/2021

CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

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!

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NEIL ARDLEY / IAN CARR / MICHAEL GIBBS / STAN TRACEY ~ WILL POWER VOCALION 8412 (Barcode: 765387841225) ~ UK ~ Jazz This stunningly beautiful album managed to stay on the top of my personal list for over 30 years now and I love it as much as I did the first time I heard it. It simply represents all the beauty, sophistication and intellectual quality of the British Jazz of the late 1960s / 1970s, perhaps more accurately and more concisely than any other one album. It documents a concert performed at London’s Southwark Cathedral, one of the many events dedicated to Shakespeare’s tercentenary celebrations, and presents four major works written by four great British Jazz composers: Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist and Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist, dedicated to Shakespeare’s genius. The list of performers certainly resembles the “Who’s Who” of British Jazz at the time and includes: Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and Pepi LemerFind albums by this artist – vocals, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist – trumpet, Tony CoeFind albums by this artist – reeds, Paul BuckmasterFind albums by this artist and Colin WalkerFind albums by this artist – cello, Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist, John TaylorFind albums by this artist and Stan Tracey – keyboards, Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist – bass, Tony LevinFind albums by this artist – drums and Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist – percussion. All the lengthy suites, although quite different from each other, are majestic and respectful to the great poet’s legacy, often touching on Elizabethan era motifs, even if ever so slightly. The ambience of the Cathedral adds to the overall effect and the magic of that performance if caught forever by this extraordinary recording. Everything that is so great about Jazz – composition, arrangement and performance – is unified here to produce that magical moment, which can never be repeated. I can’t imagine anybody not liking this, and although it’s by far no easy listening, the immediate magnanimity of this music is so apparent that repeated listening could only deepen the experience. Beyond essential!

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NEIL ARDLEY / NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ ON THE RADIO: BBC SESSIONS 1971 DUSK FIRE 115 (Barcode: 5065001032516) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016 This is a wonderful archival album from the seemingly bottomless vault of the BBC recordings, which presents two sessions led by British composer / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. The first session (six tracks) presents the full glory of the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist) led and conducted by Ardley and the second session (one track) presents a suite-like composition performed by a small Jazz ensemble, which also includes a string section and electronics. The lineup of the New Jazz Orchestra includes the crème de la crème of the British Jazz players at the time: trumpeters Nigel CarterFind albums by this artist, Bud ParkesFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonists Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, Robin GardnerFind albums by this artist and Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, tuba player Dick HartFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Don RendellFind albums by this artist, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Dave GellyFind albums by this artist and Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and percussionist / vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist. The small ensemble includes several NJO members and also features bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and the man in charge of the electronic sounds Keith WinterFind albums by this artist. For listeners familiar with the NJO recordings the music presented here will not be unanticipated, as it follows the pattern presented on their studio recordings, which is based on intricate and lavish orchestral arrangements and excellent solos by the orchestra members. The live sound and the raw power of the twenty piece orchestra are of course irresistible and illustrate the supremacy of orchestral music over small ensembles as far as the scale of possibilities is concerned. The orchestra performs two compositions by the lamented pianist / composer Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist, who was already deceased when this music was recorded. Another pleasant surprise is the inclusion of a composition by the legendary Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who played in the earlier lineup of the orchestra. The presentation of the tunes by the no less legendary Humphrey LytteltonFind albums by this artist is the proverbial cherry on the top. The suite-like piece marks the beginning for Ardley´s interest in electronic music, which started when he met Keith Winter a year before this music was recorded. His future recording will feature synthesizers of course but this early, both technologically and conceptually, meeting between electronic and acoustic sounds is truly fascinating and innovative, especially since it also features a string section. Overall this album is an invaluable historical document of the time and of the British Jazz history, and well deserved thanks go to Peter MuirFind albums by this artist, the man behind the Dusk FireFind albums on this label / Market SquareFind albums on this label labels and to Dave Gelly for the informative liner notes and his first hand experiences. This is an absolute must to all British Jazz connoisseurs, and in fact to all Jazz lovers around the world, especially the young musicians, who should be aware of how much can be learned from music made in the past. Not to be missed!

Updated: 23/05/2018Posted: 31/05/2017

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

IAN CARR ~ SOUNDS & SWEET AIRS CELESTIAL HARMONIES 13064 (Barcode: 013711306422) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 1992 Released: 1993 This is a delightful and criminally little known album by British Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader / author Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, recorded with the great pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist, who plays the organ of the Southwark cathedral in London, where this music was recorded. The album presents twelve pieces, ten of which were composed by Carr and two co-composed by Carr and Taylor. Nine of the pieces are recorded by the duo and three are trumpet solos. The music was inspired by works of William ShakespeareFind albums by this artist, whose younger brother Edmond lies buried in the cathedral. The music was recorded, edited and produced by the lamented Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded without being previously rehearsed and is therefore completely unique, is not surprisingly absolutely stunning. Carr found the ideal partner for this endeavor, as Taylor´s highly aesthetic and deeply artistic approach suits this music ideally and his organ parts are delicate and sophisticated, but kept somewhat on a second plane to accompany the leading trumpet parts. Carr´s virtuosic trumpet / flugelhorn parts are no surprise to his many followers, but he can be rarely heard playing with such lyricism and melancholy, as expressed here. Carr proved himself as a diverse composer and performer throughout his long and fruitful career, but this album is certainly quite different from most of his Jazz oriented activities. This music, although obviously improvised, is also heavily influenced by Church and Classical Music structures, which dominate its character. Overall this album, which sadly was one of his last chapters in his recorded legacy, is a superb reminder of his great talents and a fond memory of his lovely personality, which we all miss. In case anybody is interested to buy this album, it is still available, so don´t even think twice!

Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: 26/08/2020

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IAN CARR DOUBLE QUINTET ~ SOLAR SESSION JAZZ IN BRITAIN 25 (Barcode: 5060774190227) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1970 Released: 2021 This is an archival album by British trumpeter / composer / bandleader / author Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which presents a radio broadcast of a live session, recorded in October of 1970. The lineup is a tentet (or double quintet), which consists of Top British Jazz musicians of the time, some of which were members of Carr’s band NucleusFind albums by this artist at the time and other were invited to record the Nucleus third album “Solar PlexusFind albums with this title”: trumpeter Harold BeckettFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Brian SmithFind albums by this artist and Tony RobertsFind albums by this artist, bass clarinetist Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist, percussionist Chris KaranFind albums by this artist and finally synthesizer (VCS3) player Keith WinterFind albums by this artist. The album presents five tracks and the total playing time is only twenty-six minutes, which makes it rather an EP than a full CD. Perhaps with some patience more Ian Carr’s archival material might have been discovered to make this a more significant release, which of course does not undermine the value of the material included herein. The sound quality of this material is quite flat and a proper remaster might have added some glamour. This session was recorded shortly before the recording of “Solar Plexus” commenced, and includes abridged versions of most of the material that was eventually included on that album, which in today’s terms would have been called a “sneak preview”. The lineup misses the great Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, who took part in the recording of the “Solar Plexus” album, playing on some tracks, alongside Beckett, who played on the other tracks. The music, as wonderful as it is, appears somewhat hesitant and slightly “undercooked” in comparison to the future album’s versions, which makes this release slightly less essential than most of the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label releases so far, but for Carr / Nucleus completists is probably essential. Overall this album is definitely worth investigating, although does not add anything highly significant to Ian Carr’s recorded legacy as such. As usual kudos to the label for digging this material up.

Updated: 22/06/2021Posted: 22/06/2021

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

CHITINOUS ENSEMBLE ~ CHITINOUS VOCALION 8405 (Barcode: 765387840525) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2005 This strange and beautiful album would have never been released at the time if not for the openness of the DeramFind albums on this label label to issue even the most eccentric material, as long as it had musical merit. The Chitinous EnsembleFind albums by this artist was as fictitious as they come, so named by cellist / composer / arranger Paul BuckmasterFind albums by this artist, who assembled the musicians to perform an ambitious piece of orchestral music he composed. Buckmaster was a gifted and accomplished musician, who was in great demand in UK as arranger and composer, working with top Rock stars like Elton JohnFind albums by this artist, the Bee GeesFind albums by this artist (see OdessaFind albums with this title) and even the Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist (see Sticky FingersFind albums with this title). He also composed numerous film scores, including the amazing soundtrack for Roman PolanskiFind albums by this artist’s MacbethFind albums with this title, where he cooperated with the Third Ear BandFind albums by this artist. The ensemble Buckmaster assembled to perform this complex extended composition includes a large string section and a large deployment of his Jazz buddies, all top British Jazz players like Ian CarrFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist on bass, John MarshallFind albums by this artist on drums and many more. The music is a mixture of classical influences with Jazz-Rock rhythmic patterns and modern sound vistas, all combined together into a wonderful sonic experience. It sounds absolutely great today as if time only enhanced the intrinsic beauty included therein. Wholeheartedly recommended for more adventurous listeners.

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BOB DOWNES / OPEN MUSIC ~ ELECTRIC CITY ESOTERIC 2188 (Barcode: 5013929728820) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1970 Released: 2010 Flautist / composer Bob DownesFind albums by this artist is one of the most creative and innovative figures on the British Jazz scene, with a wide scope of cross-genre contributions from contemporary Classical Music via Jazz and Jazz-Rock to Free Jazz and Improvised Music. Downes was an integral part of the late 1960s / early 1970s revolution, that emerged in British and European Jazz, emancipating it from years of American influence and domination, and participated in numerous seminal recordings made during that period. His many activities were usually executed under the loosely defined umbrella name of Open MusicFind albums by this artist, which varied from a trio to a large ensemble and as the name suggests was completely free from any stylistic or genre restrictions. After recording several albums for mainstream record labels in his early days, Downes created his own record label, called OpenianFind albums on this label Records, on which he releases his projects, being one of the first musicians to do so. By the early 1980s Downes moved to Germany, where he lives and continues his work today. This incredible album presents Downes as a composer of Jazz-Rock oriented shorter pieces, packed with energy and intricate arrangements. The list of participating musicians is awe inspiring, with some of the most illustrious musicians on the scene at the time, like trumpeters Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist and Ray RussellFind albums by this artist, bassist Harry MillerFind albums by this artist and many others. The music is brilliant, breathtaking and captivating. The virtuosic performances are ample expressions of the underlying musical currents and once immersed in the magic sound, the listener is completely absorbed and mesmerized. They don´t make music like this any more, that´s for sure. Brilliant stuff!

CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GARRICK ~ A NEW SERIOUS MUSIC RHYTHM AND BLUES 076 (Barcode: 5060331752615) ~ UK ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2021 This is an archival album by seminal British pianist / composer / bandleader Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist. The album presents two BBC sessions, the first captured on July 23, 1967 which includes five original compositions by Garrick, performed with trumpeter Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Jim PhilipFind albums by this artist and Art ThemenFind albums by this artist, bassist Coleridge GoodeFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. Each of the music tracks in preceded by a spoken introduction by Humphrey LittletonFind albums by this artist. The second session, captured on October 10, 1969 includes six original compositions by Garrick, performed by trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and Themen, Goode, Tomkins and vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and with poetry readings by poets John SmithFind albums by this artist and Jeremy RobsonFind albums by this artist. Each of the music tracks in preceded by a spoken introduction by Garrick, which results in the album having no less than twenty-two tracks. During the period between these two sessions Garrick was living a “double life”, dividing his time between the Don Rendell / Ian Carr QuintetFind albums by this artist and his own ensembles, producing some of the most significant new British Jazz, of which he was one of the most important architects, especially so as a composer. His astonishing diversity, which includes “straightforward” (well never really straightforward) Jazz, Free Jazz, Jazz-Choral music, and the Jazz & Poetry explorations, like those portrayed by the second session included here, made him a key figure of the new British Jazz, crystalizing at the time. The music, although captured over five decades ago, is still a full blow in the face to those unfamiliar with Garrick’s multi-layered musical universe. I have been incredibly fortunate to hear Garrick perform live during that period and the long conversations we had together, after the music was over, about music (and poetry) with the baby-faced, always smiling Garrick are forever implanted in my mind. Music lovers interested in that period of Garrick’s activity should try and revisit all the fabulous recordings he made then, like “Poetry And Jazz In ConcertFind albums with this title”, “October WomanFind albums with this title”, “PromisesFind albums with this title”, “Black MarigoldsFind albums with this title”, “Jazz Praises At St Paul`sFind albums with this title”, “The Heart Is A LotusFind albums with this title”, which have been reissued by VocalionFind albums on this label or Garrick’s own Jazz AcademyFind albums on this label label. Any serious British Jazz collection is not complete with these titles missing. Overall this is a milestone album, with previously never released material, which is worth its weight in gold. Although the sound quality of the second session included herein is somewhat distorted at times, this can be easily forgotten in view of the historical importance of the music. Warmly recommended!

Updated: 08/08/2021Posted: 08/08/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GARRICK ~ BLACK MARIGOLDS VOCALION 8411 (Barcode: 765387841126) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1966 Released: 2005 Pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist has been an icon of British Jazz for the last five decades. His exquisite touch on the keyboards, deep lyricism and unparalleled inventiveness as a composer characterize his entire legacy over time, which has very little rivalry or precedence. This album presents Garrick in three different settings, emphasizing his immense versatility as a composer and player. As usual, he wrote all the music included here. The main body of the music is played by a magnificent septet, which comprised of the best Jazz players on the British scene at the time: Garrick – piano, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist – trumpet, Joe HarriottFind albums by this artist – sax, Don RendellFind albums by this artist – sax, Tony CoeFind albums by this artist – sax, Dave GreenFind albums by this artist – bass and Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist – drums. Garrick’s exquisite compositions and the exemplary performances by the players are just perfect. Then come several pieces, which continue Garrick’s involvement with the Jazz & Poetry movement, which feature poet John SmithFind albums by this artist reciting his poetry accompanied by smaller ensembles (mainly trio, where Colin BarnesFind albums by this artist plays the drums). Smith wrote specific pieces of poetry to be performed with specific Jazz players, creating a unique experience in the process. Last come a few pieces where Garrick turns to two atypical for Jazz instruments - harpsichord and celeste – using them in a trio format, emphasizing again his restless pioneering fever. Overall a beautiful album, full of surprises and wonderful moments and a superb document of the era and Garrick’s musical legacy.

Updated: 01/01/2016Posted:

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GARRICK ~ JAZZ PRAISES AT ST PAUL`S JAZZ ACADEMY 11 (Barcode: 5036098005783) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1968 Released: 2005 British pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist’s Jazz escapades were always anything but conventional. His participation in the Jazz & Poetry sessions held in the mid 1960s was already a sign of his unusual approach to Jazz, which Garrick considers as part of an overall cultural / artistic milieu. This album is another daring step forward in expanding the confined borders of Jazz by mixing it with liturgical music, something Garrick was to return to several times during his career. The sheer audacity of Garrick’s notion to perform Jazz inside a cathedral, playing the organ as a part of a Jazz ensemble was staggering at the time, and only thanks to the open-mindedness and liberal atmosphere prevailing in Britain at the time such project was eventually successfully executed. The music was recorded live at the St Paul’s Cathedral, featuring Garrick’s sextet (Garrick – organ, Art ThemenFind albums by this artist – saxophone, clarinet and flute, Jim PhilipFind albums by this artist – saxophone, clarinet and flute, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist – trumpet and flugelhorn, Coleridge GoodeFind albums by this artist – bass and John MarshallFind albums by this artist – drums) with a large choir. Although recorded under Spartan conditions with just one microphone (mono) suspended over the performers, the sound is remarkably clear and well balanced. With the cathedral’s natural echo the music sounds even more devotional than initially intended. Miraculously it just all works out perfectly. Released originally as a double LP on the obscure AirboneFind albums by this artist label, it has been a priceless collector’s item for decades, only to become available again on Garrick’s own record label. This is a remarkable piece of British Jazz history.

Updated: 01/01/2016Posted:

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GARRICK ~ PARTING IS SUCH JAZZ ACADEMY 03 ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1994 - 1995 Released: 1995 Following the establishment of his own record label Jazz AcademyFind albums on this label in 1993, British pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist started to record again on a regular basis and quite prolifically at that, to the delight of his many fans, myself included. This is Garrick’s second piano trio recording on his label, with (as usual) Dave GreenFind albums by this artist on bass and Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist on drums. Michael’s son Chris GarrickFind albums by this artist on violin guests on one track and veteran saxophonist Don RendellFind albums by this artist (Garrick’s former “boss” in the Don Rendell – Ian CarrFind albums by this artist quintet) guests on another. The choice of material is similar to the previous trio album, with a few standards, which are given excellent new interpretations by Garrick, and a selection of Garrick’s originals, spanning his entire career – in short some old, some new and some borrowed – all exquisitely performed in a way only he can accomplish. Overall the album is more melancholic that usual, as the album’s theme is parting after all, which also means parting with those not longer with us. Three of Garrick’s compositions are in fact requiems to departed musicians, including the beautiful waltz dedicated to Bill Evans. Two more pieces from Garrick’s “The Royal Box" suite (which was recorded by his Big Band earlier) also make their appearance here. This is another masterpiece by the great Master and a must for any of his fans; something one can listen repeatedly, always discovering new aspects of the music. Brilliant stuff!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GARRICK ~ POETRY AND JAZZ IN CONCERT VOCALION 8416 (Barcode: 765387841621) ~ UK ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 1964 - 1966 Released: 2006 The love affair between the two Art Forms: Jazz music & Poetry, goes back to the late 1950s, when American writers / poets of the Beat Generation (Jack KerouacFind albums by this artist, Allen GinsbergFind albums by this artist and others) discovered the “intellectual proximity” between their writing and the process of creating Jazz music, as represented by the founding Fathers of Bee Bop (Charlie ParkerFind albums by this artist, Dizzy GillespieFind albums by this artist and others). However, although the poets were frequent patrons of the burgeoning NY Jazz club scene, actual poetry readings combined with Jazz performances were pretty rare and sporadic. Only when the Jazz & Poetry concept crossed over the Atlantic to Britain (and later the rest of Europe) the movement reached a full swing and enjoyed immense popularity with the poets, musicians and the audiences. The intellectual crowds in London and the rest of Britain attended Jazz & Poetry concerts in huge numbers through the early and mid-1960s, but towards the end of the decade the enthusiasm diminished. British poet Jeremy RobsonFind albums by this artist and pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist were largely responsible for the movement’s popularity. Garrick, a graduate in English Literature, had a great sensitivity to the literary works and managed to compose music, which suited the words perfectly. This album, released originally in 1964 as two separate LPs (Vol.1 & 2) documents a typical Jazz & Poetry concert. Recorded “live” in a studio, the applause and the audience’s reaction to the poetry faithfully reproduce the atmosphere of a performance hall. The Jazz quintet (Garrick – piano, Joe HarriottFind albums by this artist – sax, Shake KeaneFind albums by this artist – trumpet, John TaylorFind albums by this artist – bass and Colin BarnesFind albums by this artist – drums) provides the music and four poets (Adrian MitchellFind albums by this artist, Dannie AbseFind albums by this artist, Jeremy Robson and Laurie LeeFind albums by this artist) read their poems, creating a wonderfully intellectual encounter, where the sum of the two Arts is actually better than their individual contribution. This new addition adds an ultra-rare EP of Jazz & Poetry recorded a couple of years later, featuring the Michael Garrick quintet (with Ian CarrFind albums by this artist – trumpet and Coleridge GoodeFind albums by this artist – bass replacing their respective counterparts in the earlier quintet) and Jeremy Robson, called Before Night/DayFind albums with this title. This is a timeless masterpiece and an everlasting food for sensitive souls – brilliant!

Updated: 01/01/2016Posted:

CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GARRICK ~ PROMISES VOCALION 8440 (Barcode: 765387844028) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 Released: 2008 Following the release of “October WomanFind albums with this title”, British pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist and his quintet were asked to record a new album soon after. Unfortunately the original quintet member, trumpeter Shake KeaneFind albums by this artist, left UK to join the Kurt EdelhagenFind albums by this artist’s radio Big Band in Germany – one of the best Jazz Orchestras on the continent – where he was to stay for the next four years. Garrick swiftly recruited a replacement, turning to his “half boss” (in the Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian CarrFind albums by this artist quintet) trumpeter Ian Carr to step into Keane’s shoes with a few days notice just before the recording. Since his writing was becoming more complex and elaborate, Garrick also expanded his quintet into a sextet with the addition of saxophonist / clarinetist Tony CoeFind albums by this artist. Legendary saxophonist Joe HarriottFind albums by this artist, bassist Coleridge GoodeFind albums by this artist and drummer Colin BarnesFind albums by this artist, the original quintet members, completed the lineup. The album includes all original music, composed by Garrick, with the exception of one arrangement of a George GershwinFind albums by this artist tune. Of the 10 tracks present, 7 are played by the sextet and 3 by a piano trio, where bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist replaces Goode. The music is absolutely marvelous, with Garrick’s writing reaching maturity and self-confidence. The performances are stellar, with Harriott playing perhaps more beautifully than on any other album. The entire album is complete uninterrupted musical bliss from start to finish and a remarkable example of early European Jazz of the highest quality. Even the most dedicated Garrick followers will have to admit that this is definitely one of his best achievements, a magic moment captured for posterity for us to enjoy and revere. Essential stuff!

CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GARRICK ~ THE HEART IS A LOTUS VOCALION 8400 (Barcode: 765387840020) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005 Pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist has been an icon of British Jazz for the last five decades. His exquisite touch on the keyboards, deep lyricism and unparalleled inventiveness as a composer characterize his entire legacy over time, which has very little rivalry or precedence. This album presents Garrick leading a sextet (Garrick – piano and harpsichord, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist – trumpet, Art ThemenFind albums by this artist – flute, clarinet and sax, Dave GreenFind albums by this artist – bass, Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist – drums and the divine Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist – vocals) and on several tracks the ensemble is expanded to a nonet with the edition of Don RendellFind albums by this artist – sax, Jim PhilipFind albums by this artist – flute, clarinet and sax and Coleridge GoodeFind albums by this artist on second bass. Norma’s vocal parts – both when singing lyrics and improvising, using her voice as an instrument – are absolutely stunning and completely innovative. Her presence brings the music to another dimension, adding colors and enhancing the overall effect tremendously. She would become a permanent member of Garrick’s group for a while and their recordings together are some of the best moments of the British Jazz of that period. As usual, Garrick wrote all the music and this time also the lyrics used here. His formal education was after all English Literature, and hence his sensitivity to language and poetry and his writing abilities are no surprise. Beautifully melodic and yet constantly challenging, this is a superb album, which sound today every bit as great as it did at the time it was recorded. A must!

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

JOE HARRIOTT ~ THE RAKE`S PROGRESS – AT THE BBC RHYTHM AND BLUES 084 (Barcode: 5060331752882) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1961 - 1966 Released: 2022 This is an archival album presenting three sessions recorded by the BBC with the Jamaica born legendary British saxophonist / composer Joe HarriottFind albums by this artist and his quintets in 1961, 1964 and 1966, altogether seventeen tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Harriott (for undisclosed reasons the order of the sessions on the CD is not chronological). The 1961 quintet includes trumpeter Les CondonFind albums by this artist, pianist Pat SmytheFind albums by this artist, bassist Coleridge GoodeFind albums by this artist and drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist. The 1964 quintet includes trumpeter Shake KeaneFind albums by this artist, Smythe, Goode and drummer Bobby OrrFind albums by this artist. The 1966 quintet includes trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, pianist Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, Goode and drummer Alan GreenFind albums by this artist. The music faithfully represents the dramatic development of Harriott’s music in the early 1960s, moving between Bebop and Free Jazz, and eventually resulting in a completely individual form of Free Improvisation, which was distinctly different from the American Free Jazz, which was being created across the pond. The five albums Harriott recorded between 1960 and 1964: “Southern HorizonsFind albums with this title”, “Free FormFind albums with this title”, “AbstractFind albums with this title”, “MovementFind albums with this title” and “High SpiritFind albums with this title” (in particular the mid three) are absolutely fundamental classics, being one of the earliest modern British Jazz recordings, signaling the revolution which will shake and reshape the local Jazz scene in the years to come. Although the recording is in Mono, the sound quality is excellent and every note of the music is perfectly audible. The choice of material is rather conservative, probably considering the fact that the BBC broadcasts were not entirely directed to the small minority of Free Jazz listeners. Harriott’s albums were rather harshly criticized by the Jazz “establishment” at the time, as usual with forward thinking Artists, who were simply light-years ahead of the music critics at the time. Overall, every note of music recorded by Harriott is of course absolutely worth hearing, and since the material included on this album was, as far as I know, not released previously anywhere, it is worth its weight in gold. Warmly recommended to all British Jazz fans anywhere on this planet.

Updated: 29/09/2022Posted: 29/09/2022

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

JOE HARRIOTT / AMANCIO D`SILVA ~ HUM DONO VOCALION 8505 (Barcode: 765387850524) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1969 Released: 2015 This is a long overdue reissue of the only album recorded by the quartet co-led by two of modern British Jazz pioneers: saxophonist Joe HarriottFind albums by this artist and guitarist Amancio D`SilvaFind albums by this artist, which also included bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Bryan SpringFind albums by this artist. Vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist appear as guest. The album consists of six tracks, five of which are original compositions by D`Silva and one is a standard. The original album was produced by the celebrated producer Denis PrestonFind albums by this artist and was recorded at the legendary Lansdowne Studios. This reissue was remastered by Michael J. DuttonFind albums by this artist and the sound quality and clarity are simply stunning. The liner notes include a reprint of the original liner notes printed on the album´s sleeve and a retrospective essay by Stephano D`SilvaFind albums by this artist, Amancio´s son. Of the many British Jazz albums released by the end of the 1960s, this one is surely one of the most significant and prophetic in so many ways. The exploding British Jazz scene went through a rapid revolutionary movement towards independence from the American Jazz legacy, spearheading the birth of European Jazz, which would become the next evolutionary step for the Jazz Art Form. There are many reasons why Britain proved to be the most fertile ground for this quantum leap, but one of the most significant of these reasons was certainly the fact that Britain (and London in particular) became a natural harbor for immigrants arriving from all corners of the former Empire, making it the first, as we now call it, multiculti environments, amalgamating cultural influences originating from many different locations around the globe. Music, of course, would be one of the most profoundly influenced element of the British culture, to be touched by the influx of those sounds and rhythms and by the end of the 1960s World Music was alive and kicking in Britain, long before the actual term was coined. Joe Harriott, born in Jamaica and Amancio D`Silva, born in India, were just two of many prominent British Jazz musicians, who were integrated into the local scene upon their arrival in Britain and naturally put in their own cultural heritage into the amalgam, which eventually emerged as modern British Jazz. This album is a splendid example of early Jazz-World Fusion, but certainly not the first of its kind. Harriott recorded a series of brilliant and revolutionary albums with another Indian immigrant, John Mayer, in the years preceding this recording. D`Silva recorded his debut album a few months earlier, which displayed similar World-Music influences. There were many other examples telling a similar story of integration and mutual inspiration. Harriott, who is primarily hailed as one of Free Jazz pioneers / inventors displays the gentler side of his musical personality on this album. His solos are of course much more developed and free-spirited than those performed by conventional Jazz players, but he stays well within the melodic and harmonic boundaries outlined by D`Silva´s compositions. The brief standard, which features Harriott in a duet with Spring, is the only reference to Harriott´s free style abilities. D`Silva showcases his highly individual style as a guitarist, which is clearly influenced by a plethora of Indian music characteristics. His compositions, which are all exceptionally beautiful, exemplify a perfect marriage between European lyricism and harmony and Indian spirituality and rhythmic trance. This will be also heard on his later recordings, all of which are classics in their own right. Green, one of British Jazz most prolific and respected bassists, contributes his strong and steady pulsations, which keep the music well anchored and balanced. Spring, a brilliant and original player, performs some true drum magic on this album, which is both intelligent and inspired, especially in view of the rhythmic challenges and odd tempi he needs to deal with. Winstone, the absolute Diva of British Jazz, adds some lovely wordless vocals, which complete the compositions with a veil of mystery and sensuality. She participates on three of the tracks and her contribution is simply invaluable. The great Carr, who plays on just a couple of tracks, adds his superb solos, which are like gleaming jewels; something that happens every time he blows his flugelhorn. All in all this is a most welcome reissue of a monumental milestone in the British Jazz history, which should be a part of every serious record collection owned by people who truly love Jazz. Hopefully VocalionFind albums on this label will release all the other albums recorded by D`Silva at that crucial period, which are all criminally forgotten and unavailable on the market. Oliver & Michael, please!

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

KARL JENKINS ~ PENUMBRA II JAZZ IN BRITAIN 41 (Barcode: 5060774190432) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1971 Released: 2022 The great abundance of creativity and recording activity, which blessed the British Jazz scene during the Golden Decade (1965-1975), created, among many other cultural marvels, also the “silent hero” phenomenon, which in case of the great multi-instrumentalist / composer Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, is a classic embodiment of that concept. Although firmly present at the epicenter of the music-making turmoil at the time, from Graham CollierFind albums by this artist, via Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, NucleusFind albums by this artist, and most prominently Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, Jenkins’ name would hardly be the primary association for most people thinking about the music of that period, despite his enormous contributions – the fate of a “silent hero”. I have faithfully followed his continuous activity over the decades, which shifted primarily into the Classical Music idiom, which included grand pieces like “RequiemFind albums with this title” or intimate beauties like the latest “PianoFind albums with this title”, always with great satisfaction and pleasure. This wonderful archival release brings us a three-part suite, composed by Jenkins and recorded live in 1971 with a dreamy ensemble, which includes the crème de la crème of the British Jazz-Rock musicians at the time: Jenkins on piano with trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist and Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist, pianist Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist, bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist, drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist and percussionist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist, arguably the best ensemble ever put together at that time. Although relatively short, running just under half an hour, the music is an absolute classic example of what was being created at the time, and as such somewhat similar, at least spiritually and aurally, to many other recordings of the period. The composition is based on a steady riff, which develops slowly and offers splendid opportunity to all the instrumentalists to create hair-raising solo parts. The sound quality is perfect, which makes the music to be audible in great detail. Overall, this is a superb musical time capsule, brought to us courtesy of the people behind the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label, who work tirelessly to unearth the great treasures of the British Jazz, making us, the followers and enthusiasts, ecstatically happy. It is also a much deserved “thank you” note to the contributions bestowed on us by this wonderful musician.

Updated: 30/11/2022Posted: 30/11/2022

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ LE DEJEUNER SUR L`HERBE DUSK FIRE 110 (Barcode: 5065001032981) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1968 Released: 2014 This is the second and also the last formal album by the seminal British Jazz Orchestra called New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist or NJOFind albums by this artist for short. Directed by the legendary composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist the NJO was probably the most important singular British Jazz ensemble, which shaped the way British and European Jazz developed in the late 1960s. Despite the fact that the number of people, who are familiar with this epic recording, will hardly fill up an average British pub, it is still one of the best and more importantly revolutionary Jazz albums of all times, certainly as far as British Jazz is concerned. The fact that the album, which was released on LP in 1969 and almost immediately after disappeared from the shelves, had to wait for 45 years for its debut CD reissue confirms its anonymity and obscurity. And yet for the handful of British Jazz enthusiasts it always was the magnum opus of the British Jazz resurgence, when the music emerged for the first time as a truly new Art form, related to but fully independent from the American Jazz tradition. Why "new"? The origin of the name is not entirely clear but NJO was new indeed; it included a new generation of British Jazz musicians, which arrived on the scene mostly in the 1960s and had very little in common with the older "swing" generation, which completely dominated the British scene up to that period, and which was entirely immersed in the American tradition, strengthened by the presence of American bands in Britain during the WWII period. Several Jazz Big Bands and orchestras were active on the British scene since the 1920s and well into the 1960s, some quite excellent and even extraordinary, but those limited the artistic scope to imitating the trends originating across the big pond. The list of British composers / bandleaders includes Ted HeathFind albums by this artist, Syd LawrenceFind albums by this artist, John DankworthFind albums by this artist and numerous others. By the time this album was recorded the NJO was about five years old. In 1965 it recorded its debut album called "Western Reunion London 1965Find albums with this title", which beautifully sums up the first phase of its activity, when the orchestra performed mostly new arrangements of American standards, but the overall sound of the band was already quite unique and stunning. This album was recorded by the second incarnation of the NJO, which included Jack BruceFind albums by this artist on bass (who was already a member of CreamFind albums by this artist at the time), with the regular bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist taking the position of the album´s producer. The rest of the band included: trumpeters Derek WatkinsFind albums by this artist, Harry LowtherFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, trombonists John MumfordFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist and Tony RussellFind albums by this artist, tuba player George SmithFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Dave GellyFind albums by this artist, Jim PhilipFind albums by this artist and Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight compositions, five of which are originals composed by NJO members or other British Jazz musicians / composers of the new generation; those are Neil Ardley, Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist, Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist and Michael Gibbs. Two modern American Jazz standards, one by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and another one by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist are also present, but their arrangements are stunningly removed from the original versions known to most Jazz listeners. The remaining composition is by the French composer of Polish / Jewish origin Alexandre TansmanFind albums by this artist, whose composition receives another highly unusual treatment. The album emerges triumphantly as a masterpiece of composition, arrangement, performance and intelligent music making, all those on top of its being a first of its kind and a beacon for generations to come. Many other superb Big Band / Orchestral British Jazz recordings will follow (Michael Gibbs, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and others), but as great as they were, none of them achieved the same primordial perfection, which marked the birth of British Jazz as documented herein. If anybody wanders about the album´s title (and the title of the opening track) and its humorous sleeve design, Google it up, oh ye ignoramuses, or preferably visit the Musée d´Orsay in Paris and look for the original ;) With the recent parting of Jack Bruce, whom I was honored and lucky to know in person, the reissue of this album is a small solace in his memory and in memory of a generation almost gone…

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ WESTERN REUNION LONDON 1965 VOCALION 8427 (Barcode: 765387842727) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 Released: 2006 The New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist) was a big band directed by bandleader / arranger / composer Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist and consisted of the best up-coming Jazz players on the British scene at the time: Ian CarrFind albums by this artist – trumpet, Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist – trombone, Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist – sax, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist – sax, Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist – bass, Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist – drums and many more. Ardley ran the orchestra with an “iron fist” and in time turned it into a perfectly well oiled ensemble, which was able to perform even the trickiest arrangements with a breeze. His outstanding arrangements of classic Jazz pieces are all masterpieces of rare beauty and sophistication and he manages to get out of the band so much more that an average US big band playing similar material. Of course the soloist, who are all quite outstanding, add another dimension to the overall sound, which is truly heavenly. This is the first album by NJO and includes mostly standards by American (Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, John LewisFind albums by this artist) and British composers, but one of Ardley’s compositions is also included. Ardley, who was an admirer of Gil EvansFind albums by this artist, developed a distinctive orchestral (rather than traditional big band) sound with NJO, using the various sections of the band to complement each other’s sound and tonality. The overall effect is absolutely stunning and this is one of my all time favorite big band albums. This is essential listening to all big band fans and recommended to all Jazz listeners out there. A true gem!

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA / NEIL ARDLEY GROUP ~ BBC SESSIONS 1968-1970 RHYTHM AND BLUES 101 (Barcode: 5060331753834) ~ UK ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2024 This is an archival album, which presents recordings by two Orchestral Jazz ensembles, both led by the brilliant pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. The album presents fourteen tracks, six by the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist), recorded in 1968 and eight by the Neil Ardley GroupFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1970. Five of the NJO tracks appear in a studio version on their 2nd studio album “Le Dejeuner Sur L`herbeFind albums with this title”. The first seven of the Neil Ardley Group tracks, which were composed by pianist / composer Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist and are a song cycle / Jazz & Poetry suite, were sadly never recorded in the studio and released on an album. Taylor tragically died just a few months before this music was recorded. The lineup of these two ensembles reads like a Who’s Who of the British Jazz at the end of the 1960s, some still very young at the time, but already experienced musicians, who were going to shape the British Jazz scene in the decades to come. The NJO lineup includes Ardley as the leader / conductor, trumpeters Derek WatkinsFind albums by this artist, Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dave GellyFind albums by this artist, Jim PhilipFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, trombonists Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, Robin GardnerFind albums by this artist and Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, tuba player George SmithFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist, bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The Neil Ardley Group lineup includes Ardley on piano, vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, Carr, Gelly, Thompson, Ricotti, bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and drummer Mike TravisFind albums by this artist. I rest my case… The music, as expected, is absolutely sensational and reflects the vibrancy and ingenuity of the British Jazz scene at this pivotal period, when the modern British Jazz idiom was molded for decades to come. The specific idiosyncrasies and “Britishness” of the new epoch is simply encapsulated in every note played here. It is also a superb display of the individual talents of these magnificent musicians, those who are still with us and sadly those who departed, like Thompson and Hiseman, who met as members of the NJO and created one of the British Jazz “power couples” or Ardley and Carr, whose giant talents are deeply missed. Overall, this is an absolute must have album for every British Jazz collector, especially in view of the fact that some of the music captured herein is not available anywhere else. For the cognoscenti, the album offers endless hints and interconnections, like a sensational version of the song “Jumping Off The Sun”, which became an anthem for the legendary ColosseumFind albums by this artist, which was founded by Hiseman and Heckstall-Smith, and included Reeves and Thompson, and so on…

Updated: 22/09/2024Posted: 21/09/2024

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

NUCLEUS ~ ELASTIC ROCK / WE`LL TALK ABOUT IT LATER BGO 0047 (Barcode: 5017261200471) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1970 - 1971 1st and 2nd albums recorded 1970 / 1971 by the outstandig UK Jazz-Rock Fusion outfit NucleusFind albums by this artist, led by the trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and featuring the best Jazz-Rock players in the country, many of which played later in bands such as Soft MachineFind albums by this artist a.m.o. Nucleus were of course pioneers of the genre and their contribution to the development of the genre is immense. This is an absolute must to all Jazz-Rock Fusion fans!

Updated: 28/07/2023Posted:

CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

NUCLEUS ~ HEMISPHERES HUX 078 (Barcode: 682970000787) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2006 Led by trumpeter / composer Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, NucleusFind albums by this artist were not only the most important UK Jazz-Rock ensemble but in fact one of world’s pioneers of the genre. Carr created Nucleus to take the next step in his already well-established Jazz career. During the 1960s Carr was a co leader of the Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian Carr Quintet, one of the best UK modern Jazz ensembles. However by the end of the 1960s Carr felt a need to change his direction and move into the Rock influenced Jazz-Rock Fusion. Following the steps of US pioneers of the genre like Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist and Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and UK ensembles like the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, Carr put together a group of the best players on the UK scene to create Nucleus. The band was an instant success and a revelation, soon to be recognized as the leading force of the newborn genre. The first incarnation of the group included (in addition to Ian Carr who played trumpet and flugelhorn) Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist on electric piano and oboe, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist on tenor and soprano saxophones, Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist on guitar, Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist on bass and John MarshallFind albums by this artist on drums. Between 1970 and 1971 this lineup recorded three fabulous albums: Elastic RockFind albums with this title, We`ll Talk About It LaterFind albums with this title and Solar PlexusFind albums with this title, which belong to the absolute classics of the genre. This album includes two live performances of this incarnation of Nucleus, recorded almost a year apart. The sound quality is truly amazing and the performances are stellar. Most of the material is taken from the a.m. three albums, but previously never released tunes are also included, which makes this album even more important. This is a prime example of European Jazz-Rock at its best, alive and kicking. Absolutely essential listening!

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

NUCLEUS ~ LIVE AT THE BBC REPERTOIRE 1410 (Barcode: 4009910141021) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1970 - 1991 Released: 2021 This is a monumental 13CD archival Box Set by British Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble NucleusFind albums by this artist, founded and led by trumpeter / composer / author / bandleader Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, one of the key figures on the British Jazz scene for five decades from 1960s on. The Box Set collects 28 radio broadcasts recorded between July 1970 and November 1991, an incredible document of the British Jazz history, the development of the genre in general and Jazz-Rock Fusion in particular. Painstakingly collected, organized, remastered / restored, the music is a priceless tribute to one of the most creative bands active in Britain ever. The Box Set includes an informative booklet with an essay written by Roger FarbeyFind albums by this artist. The Nucleus lineup included over time the absolute Who’s Who of the British Jazz scene, including many of the first generation of players, who revolutionized British Jazz in the late 1960s. Some of the most prominent figures, who played with the ensemble for many years were saxophonist / keyboardist Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist (who apart from Carr plays on almost all the tracks in this Box Set), saxophonist Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist and many others. Many of the ensemble members contributed also their original compositions to the repertoire performed by the ensemble, especially in the early days, with Carr’s compositions dominating the repertoire in the later period. Although Nucleus, contrary to Farbey’s statement, did not pioneer British Jazz-Rock Fusion as such, the ensemble was one of the key focal points of the genre for many years, even after the genre run out of steam by the mid-1970s. Carr was a prolific composer and Nucleus was for many years the best environment to develop and present his compositions in the most successful way. As usual with such releases, based on material from the BBC vaults, it is imperative to emphasize the role of the BBC in the development of music in Britain, when it supplied the stable platform for musicians to perform, with the music being broadcast (sometimes worldwide) and eventually archived for posterity. This unmeasurable contribution to British Culture is truly phenomenal. Considering the fact that the music in this Box Set was taken not only directly from the BBC archives but also from many secondary private sources, often with problematic sound quality, the sonic effect, especially of the early material, is not up to par with today’s standards, but in view of its historic quality is welcome here, although with a slight unease. Overall, this Box Set is a remarkable effort to document the history of one of the greatest Jazz-Rock Fusion ensembles of all times, and considering the fact that it is mostly previously unreleased, it is a collector’s treasure chest. It is definitely somewhat expensive, but for avid collectors it is worth its weight in gold.

Updated: 06/03/2022Posted: 06/03/2022

CD 13 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

NUCLEUS ~ OUT OF THE LONG DARK / OLD HEARTLAND BGO 420 (Barcode: 5017261204202) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1978 - 1988 Released: 1998 11th album by NucleusFind albums by this artist recorded in 1978 and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist`s solo project recorded in 1988. `Out Of The Long Dark` was recorded by a quintet (smallest) version of Nucleus and was to be the one before last album by the group. `Old Heartland` was a solo project by Carr leading a sextet and a String Orchestra and demonstrates Carr`s abilities as a gifted and versatile composer, in addition to his instrumental skills and his leadership of the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre. Breathtakingly beautiful music.

CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

NUCLEUS ~ THE PRETTY REDHEAD HUX 038 (Barcode: 682970000381) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1971 - 1982 Released: 2003 NucleusFind albums by this artist, led by the trumpetter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, were one of the best Jazz-Rock Fusion ensembles of all times and recorded a series of brilliant albums between late 1960´s and 1980´s. This album brings to life two previously unreleases BBC session the group recorded in 1971 and 1982. The music steams with energy and superb instrumental performances. Since there are no new Nucleus albums, this is a blessed addition.

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL ~ PLAYTIME VOCALION 4284 (Barcode: 765387428426) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1955 - 1959 Released: 2005 Saxophonist / composer Don RendellFind albums by this artist is a prominent figure on the UK Jazz scene for over 5 decades. Since his earliest recordings in the mid-1950s and well into the 2000s, his unmistakable tone and total control of his instrument have been his trademark. Although mostly known for his role as a co-leader of the Don Rendell / Ian CarrFind albums by this artist Quintet, one of Britain’s most innovative and brilliant Jazz ensembles of the late 1960s, over the years he recorded hundreds of sessions as sideman and leader. This album brings back to life his second LP recorded in 1958 (the first, called Meet Don RendellFind albums with this title was a 10-inch LP recorded 3 years earlier). The bonus tracks include two EP recordings, one form 1955 and the other from 1959. At the time these sessions were recorded the UK Jazz scene was strongly influenced by American Jazz. Rendell was a member of the legendary Ted HeathFind albums by this artist and Stan KentonFind albums by this artist orchestras and toured along with Gerry MulliganFind albums by this artist and the Modern Jazz QuartetFind albums by this artist, which gave him ample opportunity to hear the Masters and learn from them. By the time he formed the sextet that recorded this album Rendell was a seasoned musician and knew exactly what he wants to do. The music includes four original compositions by the sextet members (two of which are Rendell’s) and six standards. The arrangements are very clever and often quite different from the usual approach at the time, being an early sign of the new way the British musicians were about to treat the US Jazz tradition. The performances are spotless and inspired and overall this is a most enjoyable piece of great music, somewhere between Swing, Cool and Hard Bop. Most warmly recommended.

Updated: 12/06/2018Posted:

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR ~ CHANGE IS BGO 613 (Barcode: 5017261206138) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1969 Released: 2004 5th and last album by the seminal Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian CarrFind albums by this artist Quintet, probably the most important British Jazz ensemble in the 1960s, which played a key role in establishing the “British sound” in Jazz, breaking away from the constrains of American Jazz traditionalism. The quintet comprised of brilliant instrumentalists and composers and after playing together for about five years they achieved a telepathic understanding of each other’s mannerisms and preferences, allowing them to perform in unparalleled unison and harmony. Don Rendell on saxophones and flute, Ian Carr on trumpet and flugelhorn, Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist on piano, Dave GreenFind albums by this artist on bass and Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist on drums were together a mean and lean, unstoppable music machine, creating some of the most daring and adventurous Jazz music ever heard. However, as hinted by the album’s title, by the time this album was recorded the quintet reached the end of its life cycle. Both Garrick and Carr were extremely busy musically, composing and performing music outside the quintet’s frame, with Garrick leading his own ensemble and recording prolifically and Carr founding his own ensemble, the legendary NucleusFind albums by this artist, which was to become the definitive Jazz-Rock Fusion point of reference. Two of the compositions found on this album would soon be recorded as title tracks on albums by Garrick (Cold MountainFind albums with this title) and Nucleus (Elastic DreamFind albums with this title), clear evidence of the fact that the quintet was reaching the end of its days. Another indication of the imminent changes was the fact that the album includes, for the first time, guest musicians who augmented the quintet on several tracks. They were: Mick PyneFind albums by this artist on piano, Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist on bass, Guy WarrenFind albums by this artist on percussion and Stan RobinsonFind albums by this artist on saxophone, musicians who would soon play with the new ensembles formed after the quintet folded. It is somewhat unfortunate that the following decade would be extremely flourishing for both Carr and Garrick, but Rendell was to slowly step back from the limelight and record only sporadically. But all that aside, the final recording by the Rendell / Carr quintet is a masterpiece of British Jazz in every respect, full of superb compositions and brilliant performances – an album that deserves a honorable position in every serious music collection. Essential!

Updated: 28/06/2021Posted:

CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR ~ LIVE AT THE UNION 1966 REEL RECORDINGS 016 (Barcode: 775020996229) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1966 Released: 2010 If one had to pick up just one British ensemble, which would epitomize the British Jazz in the 1960s and its momentous development and emancipation from the early American Jazz basics into a full fledged European Jazz extravaganza, the Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian CarrFind albums by this artist Quintet would probably fit the bill most appropriately. The quintet´s five superb albums stand out to this day as one of the genre´s finest recordings and therefore any additional recording capturing these magnificent players in action is a rare and precious jewel, especially in view of the fact that this one is beautifully recorded and sounds just perfect. The quintet includes also the extraordinary pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, who wrote most of the quintet´s music, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. On this particular recording Green plays only on the first two tracks (due to the fact that he had another gig the same evening) and is replaced for the rest of the duration by no other than Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist (New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, ColosseumFind albums by this artist, GreensladeFind albums by this artist, etc.). This is a rare and wonderful opportunity to hear Tony´s superb Jazz bass abilities. This is a beautiful gift to all British Jazz enthusiasts, especially in view of Ian´s sad departure. A must!

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR ~ PHASE III / LIVE BGO 614 (Barcode: 5017261206145) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1968 - 1969 Released: 2004 3rd and 4th albums by this extraordinary UK jazz outfit co-led by saxophonist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist. It continues the ground-breaking development of modern jazz with elegance and sophistication typical of European jazz in the 60`s, which combines the elements of conteporary modern jazz and the legacy of classical composition. All players in the Quintet are extraordinary and the compositions complex, yet retaining a subtle melodic qualities. A true gem!

CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR ~ SHADES OF BLUE / DUSK FIRE BGO 615 (Barcode: 5017261206152) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 - 1966 Released: 2004 1st and 2nd albums by one of the greatest UK jazz groups in all times, co-led by saxophonist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist. Both leaders are exceptionally gifted players and composers, but also the rhythm section includes some of the best UK players ever, especially the brilliant piano player and composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist. The level of compositions is extremely high and presents possibly the best amalgam of modern jazz influences with both jazz and classical traditionalism. Truly extraordinary achievement.

CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR QUINTET ~ BBC JAZZ CLUB 1965/66 RHYTHM AND BLUES 064 (Barcode: 5060331752202) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 - 1966 Released: 2020 This is an archival album by the seminal British Jazz quintet co-led by saxophonist / flautist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which also included pianist Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The album presents three BBC sessions, one from 1965 and two from 1966, all together sixteen tracks (and seven short introductions by Rendell or Humphrey LittletonFind albums by this artist). On the first session Colin PurbrookFind albums by this artist replaces Garrick and on the second session Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist replaces Green. These sessions were recorded around the time the quintet recorded and released their first two albums: “Shades Of BlueFind albums with this title” and “Dusk FireFind albums with this title”, and the second session presents five live versions of the material present on the second album. Most of the material consists of original compositions by Rendell, Carr and Garrick, the last being the most prolific contributor to the quintet’s material. A great tune by Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, another by Pat SmytheFind albums by this artist and a couple of standards are also present. These sessions show vividly the giant step the quintet made between recording the debut album with Purbrook on piano in 1964, which was almost completely conventional and Bee Bop oriented, and the second album with Garrick on piano recorded in 1965, where the quintet turns into the amazing modern Jazz ensemble passing the equinox which marks the birth of modern British Jazz. Considering the splendid sound quality of these recordings, the fact that it is the first time they appear on record and that they also include previously never heard material by the quintet, this album is worth its weight in gold, not only to British / European Jazz enthusiasts but all modern Jazz lovers around the world. In view of the relatively limited recorded legacy by this legendary quintet, this stuff is absolutely essential!

Updated: 08/07/2021Posted: 06/07/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR QUINTET ~ BBC JAZZ CLUB 1965/66 II RHYTHM AND BLUES 075 (Barcode: 5060331752585) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 - 1966 Released: 2021 This is the second archival album by the seminal British Jazz quintet co-led by saxophonist / flautist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which also included pianist Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The album presents three BBC sessions, two from 1965 and one from 1966, all together seventeen tracks. On the second session vibraphonist Mike CarrFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. The first session is Garrick’s debut appearance as a member of the quintet. These sessions were recorded between the time the quintet recorded their first album “Shades Of BlueFind albums with this title” (recorded in October 1964) and their second album “Dusk FireFind albums with this title” (recorded in March 1966), and it is not surprising that the second and third sessions presents some early live versions of the material eventually recorded for the second album. Most of the material consists of original compositions by Rendell, Carr and no less than seven compositions and one co-composition with Carr) by Garrick, who became the most prolific contributor to the quintet’s material. These sessions show vividly the giant step the quintet made between recording the debut album with Colin PurbrookFind albums by this artist on piano, which was almost completely conventional and Bee Bop oriented, and the second album with Garrick on piano, recorded just a year and a half later, where the quintet turns into the amazing modern Jazz ensemble passing the equinox which marks the birth of modern British Jazz. Considering the splendid sound quality of these recordings, the fact that it is the first time they appear on record and that they also include previously never heard material by the quintet, this album is worth its weight in gold, not only to British / European Jazz enthusiasts but all modern Jazz lovers around the world. In view of the relatively limited recorded legacy by this legendary quintet, this stuff is absolutely essential! Side Note for Michael Garrick’s fans: Of the seven Garrick’s composition on this album, only one (“Prayer”) appeared on the “Dusk Fire” album. The other six compositions can be found on the following albums: “October WomanFind albums with this title” is the title track from his album recorded in November 1964 with his own quintet before he joined the Rendell / Carr quintet. “Ursula” is a track from his album “Black MarigoldsFind albums with this title”, which will be recorded in January / February 1966. “Trane’s Mood” originates from the iconic “Poetry And Jazz In Concert 250Find albums with this title” album and can also be found on the “Live At The Union 1966Find albums with this title” album. “The Sixth Seal” only appeared recently on the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label’s LP “At Short NoticeFind albums with this title”, which is in desperate need of a CD release. “She’ll Be Back” and “Secrets” seem to make the only appearance on this album, unless the names of the tunes are mistaken.

Updated: 04/08/2021Posted: 04/08/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR QUINTET ~ BLUE BEGINNINGS JAZZ IN BRITAIN 20 (Barcode: 5060774190234) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1964 Released: 2021 This is an archival album by the first lineup of the seminal British Jazz quintet co-led by saxophonist / flautist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which also included pianist Colin PurbrookFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The album presents two BBC sessions, the first from April 1964 (two tracks) captured before the quintet recorded their first album “Shades Of BlueFind albums with this title” and the second from November 1964 (six tracks) shortly after the studio recording which took place in October 1964. The first session presents one live version of a track, which will appear on the studio album and one standard and the second session presents five live versions of the material present on the studio album and one standard. Most of the original material consists of compositions by Rendell and Carr and the title track of the studio album was composed by Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist of course. These sessions show vividly the giant step the quintet made between recording the debut album with Purbrook on piano in 1964, which was almost completely conventional and Bee Bop oriented, and the following albums with Garrick on piano, starting with second album recorded in 1965, where the quintet turns into the amazing modern Jazz ensemble passing the equinox which marks the birth of modern British Jazz. Garrick was not only a brilliant and farsighted pianist but also the most prolific composer, which of course strengthened the quintet’s output considerably. Despite the fact that the music here is pretty conventional, as far as the Jazz tradition is concerned, on the verge of change but not quite yet, the fact that it is the first time it appears on record, this album is worth its weight in gold, not only to British / European Jazz enthusiasts but all modern Jazz lovers around the world. In view of the relatively limited recorded legacy by this legendary quintet, this stuff is absolutely essential! As usual kudos to the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label people, who dared to make this dream of a label to come true.

Updated: 18/07/2021Posted: 18/07/2021

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR QUINTET ~ WARM UP JAZZ IN BRITAIN 44 (Barcode: 5060774190487) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 Released: 2022 This is an archival 2CD live album by the fabled British Jazz quintet co-led by saxophonist / composer Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter / composer Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which also included pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and recently departed drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist, to whom this album is dedicated. Part of the music contained here was previously released on the HarkitFind albums on this label label in 2003, but the entire concert at the Highwayman is now presented in full and sonically restored, accompanied by a 20-pages booklet with photos and an essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve tracks, four of which are original compositions by Garrick – the most prolific composer of the quintet, one by Rendell and one by the great Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, with the rest being Jazz standards. I have already written extensively about this magnificent quintet, so there is no need to repeat the obvious – they were the quintessential outfit at the time and champions of the process of establishing the new voice of the British Jazz after years of copying and admiring the American Jazz tradition, finally being able, together with several other contemporaries, to emancipate the music and create an autonomous, recognizable, aesthetically independent way of thinking and composing and most importantly improvising. Of course, all five members of the quintet were great performers, which means that the music kicks ass for the entire duration, but it deserves several listening sessions in order to recognize all the crucial moments of genius, where they offer innovation rather than just going through the motions. It is great to have the entire concert available, and to fill one more gap in the complex puzzle this quintet managed to create during its relatively short existence. Overall, this is another triumphant release by the Jazz In Britain label, which is a total labor of love and commitment. I look with great satisfaction at the growing stack of the label’s releases, which is the main source of archival material, producing an ongoing story of British Jazz. This album is a great addition to this growing legacy, and from what the people behind the scenes share with us, this is just a tiny portion of the material that comes their way. We can only hope the creative juices will keep flowing and the CDs coming – hats off to you people. And the album – well, it is a no brainer whatsoever – just grab a copy – satisfaction guaranteed!

Updated: 29/01/2023Posted: 28/01/2023

CD 2 Digipak Remastered 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

BARBARA THOMPSON ~ FIRST LIGHT JAZZ IN BRITAIN 54 (Barcode: 5060774190524) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 2023 This is an album collecting three archival live recordings / radio broadcasts by the late British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, which present her in various settings with the crème de la crème of the British Jazz musicians active in the early 1970s. As a result, it is a companion album to the tremendous 14CD Box Set “Live At The BBCFind albums with this title” by Barbara Thompson, released in 2020 by RepertoireFind albums on this label Records, offering material uncovered after the Box Set was released. This album, released by the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label, is a completely non-commercial release, with all profits from the album going to the Cure Parkinson’s Trust, a moving gesture by all the people involved, including Barbara’s and Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist’s daughter Ana GraceyFind albums by this artist and Jazz In Britain founder John ThurlowFind albums by this artist. We all still mourn Barbara’s and Jon’s untimely departures of course. The first two tracks present the Group EFind albums by this artist, which comprised of (in addition to Barbara) vocalist Pepi LemerFind albums by this artist, pianist Peter LemerFind albums by this artist, bassist Johnny DyaniFind albums by this artist and drummer Laurie AllanFind albums by this artist. The music is Avant-Garde Jazz, with superb vocal parts by Lemer, who sadly is often forgotten, but was one of the most interesting Jazz vocalist of the period. The next three tracks present a suite for a Big Band, called “The Awakening”, co-composed by Barbara and Jon. The band features a dreamy lineup of eleven instrumentalists and a vocalist – no other than my beloved Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist – which reads like a Who’s Who of the modern British Jazz and is conducted by Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. The players are: trumpeters Ian HamerFind albums by this artist, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonist Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Don RendellFind albums by this artist and Barbara Thompson, cellist Charles TunnellFind albums by this artist, pianist Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Bill Le SageFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon Hiseman. The music is absolutely brilliant and very typical of the Big Band recordings recorded at the time by Neil Ardley, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and others. The vocal parts by Winstone are, not surprisingly, my favorite jewels, but the entire suite is simply divine and the fact it was discovered and now released is no less than sensational. The last five tracks are by Barbara’s group JubiabaFind albums by this artist, which comprised of (in addition to Barbara) trumpeters George ChisholmFind albums by this artist and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, Wadsworth, Le Sage, Peter Lemer, bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist, drummer Martin DrewFind albums by this artist and percussionist Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. It presents the early version of the band, which was essentially dedicated to combining Jazz with World Music influences, mostly Latin. As far as I am aware, this is the earliest recordings by Jubiaba captured on tape. Overall, this is an absolute jewel from start to finish and an absolute must to all British Jazz enthusiasts, and in retrospect one of the most surprising and important releases by the Jazz In Britain label so far. The Big Band piece alone is a beacon symbolizing the birth of the modern British Jazz, with everything it stands for: ingenuity, originality, groundbreaking musical thinking and enormous talent. Hats off to everybody involved!

Updated: 26/07/2023Posted: 26/07/2023

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

STAN TRACEY ~ FROM STAN, WITH LOVE (WITH LOVE FROM JAZZ / WE LOVE YOU MADLY) RESTEAMED 115 (Barcode: 5060138617155) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2021 This is a reissue of two seminal albums by the iconic British Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist: “With Love From JazzFind albums with this title” and “We Love You MadlyFind albums with this title”, coupled together as a 2CD set. The first album is a quartet recording with Tracey, saxophonist Bobby WellinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Jackie DouganFind albums by this artist (Lennie BushFind albums by this artist and Ronnie StephensonFind albums by this artist replace Green and Dougan on the last track) and presents eight original compositions by the leader. The second album was recorded by an eighteen-piece Big Band (called Big Brass), which included some of the top British Jazz musicians at the time, such as trumpeters Derek WatkinsFind albums by this artist, Kenny BakerFind albums by this artist and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Joe HarriottFind albums by this artist, Don RendellFind albums by this artist, and Tony CoeFind albums by this artist, clarinetist Acker BilkFind albums by this artist, Tracey on piano, Bush on bass and drummer Barry MorganFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, the album is dedicated to American pianist / composer / bandleader Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist and presents six compositions by him, one by Billy StrayhornFind albums by this artist and one by Tracey, all also arranged by him. The first album was recorded October12 and 31, 1967 and the second August 20 and 21, 1968 and released a year later (respectively) on the EMI / ColumbiaFind albums on this label label. The first album is a wonderful example of Tracey’s quartet work, based on his idiosyncratic compositions, often truly romantic in nature, which defined his style characterized by his singular chord vamping. This was the last recording with Wellins, who was replaced on future albums by Peter KingFind albums by this artist. Tracey and Wellins has a telepathic communication between them and played like musical twins, which of course is audible here as well. The last track is a surprising excursion into African rhythms, which finds Tracey playing the vibraphone. The Big Band album is a complete different cup of tea, with Tracey showing off his genius as arranger / Big Band leader, which always were his undeniable passions in addition to his composing and playing the piano. His love and respect to Ellington the composer is plainly apparent and his arrangements are highly unusual, almost diametrically different from the original Ellington recordings, which of course is a brilliant lesson in the differences between the American and British / European approach to using the Big Band as a musical tool. The original composition closing the album is a proverbial cherry on top of course. Personally this is one of my most loved Tracey recordings, but hey I love them all of course. Overall, these are two absolute British Jazz treasures, and their absence from the record market was a travesty. We should be grateful to Clark TraceyFind albums by this artist (Stan’s son) for bringing them back to life on the family’s ReSteamedFind albums on this label label, hopefully seeing more of these gems getting the same treatment soon. Absolutely essential!

Updated: 18/08/2021Posted: 18/08/2021

CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ DIE NEUNTE VON UNITED MOOD 6472 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996 This is the 9th album (5th live recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The fifth lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also British trumpeters Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, German saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and American (resident in Germany) bassist Dave KingFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note) and presents nine tracks, eight of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: two each by Kriegel and Mangelsdorff and one each by Carr, Dauner, Lauer and Thompson, and one is a Jazz standard by Billy StrayhornFind albums by this artist, arranged by van Rooyen. The album reflects the constant musical development of the ensemble and seemingly endless collection of musical ideas. The music becomes ever more complex and ambitious, often of orchestral scale, but never loses an iota of the Rock and Funk elements, combining everything into a unique amalgam, which always kept them apart from any competition or comparison. With three trumpeters on board the Big Band sound is always potent and the brass arrangements are more complex than ever. All members of the group get an opportunity to solo, but the main idea is to present an “ensemble” sound, rather than a collection of individuals. The fact that the ensemble sounds as good live as in the studio testifies as to the remarkable level of musicianship and the joy of playing together. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find the recordings by the ensemble quite different and innovative, as the mutual influence between the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous recordings over time. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 06/01/2025Posted: 05/01/2025

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ LIVE IN BERLIN MOOD 33.620 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1981 Released: 1988 This is a reissue / remaster of the 4th album (2nd live recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The second lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also two British trumpeters Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Germany) saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist and German bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note). The album presents nine tracks, all of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: two each by Dauner, Mariano, Kriegel and Carr and one by Mangelsdorff. The music is absolutely stunning and completely unusual for the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre. Due to the strong horn section it is conceptually closer to Brass Rock, but on the other hand it has a much more potent Jazz presence. All the members of the ensemble are superb instrumentalists with many years of experience and the level of the performances is phenomenal. With three trumpeters on board the Big Band sound is even more potent than on the two earlier albums and the brass arrangements are more complex. The overall sound of this album is similar to the sound of the British Jazz ensembles, like NucleusFind albums by this artist or Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist ensembles. This live recording proves how the strong the ensemble was live and how masterfully they handled the complex arrangements and multi-part compositions. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find them both familiar and innovative, as the mutual influence of the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous future recordings. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 29/12/2024Posted: 22/12/2024

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ LIVE IN SCHUTZENHAUS MOOD 33.609 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1977 Released: 1987 This is a reissue / remaster of the 1st album by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The first lineup of the group, which recorded this live album, included also British trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Germany) saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist and German bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note) and was the label’s first release. The album presents seven tracks, all of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: three by Dauner, two by Kriegel and one each by Carr and Mariano. The music is absolutely stunning and completely unusual for the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre. Due to the strong horn section it is conceptually closer to Brass Rock, but on the other hand it has a much more potent Jazz presence. All the members of the ensemble are superb instrumentalists with many years of experience and the level of the performances is phenomenal. Hiseman’s incredible steady drumming keeps the large ensemble precisely together, despite the devilishly complex rhythmic patterns. Thompson’s flute parts are simply insane, and this is one of the finest example of the couple’s work together. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find them both familiar and innovative, as the mutual influence of the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous future recordings. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 18/11/2024Posted: 18/11/2024

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ NA ENDLICH! MOOD 6382 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1992 Released: 1992 This is the 8th album (4th live recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The fourth lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also British trumpeters Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (back again), American (resident in Germany) saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist and American (resident in Germany) bassist Dave KingFind albums by this artist (who replaced Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist). The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note). The album presents eight tracks (one spoken intro), six of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: two by Dauner and one each by Mariano, Kriegel, Mangelsdorff and Thompson, and for the first time a Jazz standard by Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, arranged by Thompson. The album reflects the constant musical development of the ensemble and seemingly endless collection of musical ideas. The music becomes ever more complex and ambitious, often of orchestral scale, but never loses an iota of the Rock and Funk elements, combining everything into a unique amalgam, which always kept them apart from any competition or comparison. With three trumpeters on board the Big Band sound is always potent and the brass arrangements are more complex than ever. All members of the group get an opportunity to solo, but the main idea is to present an “ensemble” sound, rather than a collection of individuals. The fact that the ensemble sounds as good live as in the studio testifies as to the remarkable level of musicianship and the joy of playing together. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find the recordings by the ensemble quite different and innovative, as the mutual influence between the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous recordings over time. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 06/01/2025Posted: 03/01/2025

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ ROUND SEVEN MOOD 33.606 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1987 Released: 1987 This is the 7th album (3rd studio recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The third lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also British trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, German trumpeter Johannes FaberFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Germany) saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist and German bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist. Dauner’s son, drummer Florian DaunerFind albums by this artist, contributes on one track. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note). The album presents seven tracks, all of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: one each by Dauner (a three-part suite), Mariano (co-composed with the great Indian vocalist R.A. RamamaniFind albums by this artist), Kriegel, Carr, Mangelsdorff, Thompson and Weber. This was the first album by the ensemble released on LP and CD at the same time, and due to the extended playing time possible on the CD, it includes two live bonus tracks, which do not appear on the LP edition. The exact date of the recording of these live bonus tracks is not clear and I suspect they were recorded at an earlier occasion. This album marks the 10th anniversary of the recording history of the ensemble and beautifully reflects the constant musical development. The music becomes ever more complex and ambitious, often of orchestral scale, but never loses an iota of the Rock and Funk elements, combining everything into a unique amalgam, which always kept them apart from any competition or comparison. With three trumpeters on board the Big Band sound is always potent and the brass arrangements are more complex than ever. All members of the group get an opportunity to solo, but the main idea is to present an “ensemble” sound, rather than a collection of individuals. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find the recordings by the ensemble quite different and innovative, as the mutual influence between the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous recordings over time. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 01/01/2025Posted: 01/01/2025

CD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ TEAMWORK MOOD 33.618 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1978 Released: 1988 This is a reissue / remaster of the 2nd album (1st studio recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The first lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also British trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Germany) saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist and German bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note). The album presents eight tracks, all of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: two by Mangelsdorff and one each by Carr, Kriegel, Thompson, Weber, Dauner and Mariano. The music is absolutely stunning and completely unusual for the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre. Due to the strong horn section it is conceptually closer to Brass Rock, but on the other hand it has a much more potent Jazz presence. All the members of the ensemble are superb instrumentalists with many years of experience and the level of the performances is phenomenal. Hiseman’s incredible steady drumming keeps the large ensemble precisely together, despite the devilishly complex rhythmic patterns. Thompson’s flute parts are simply insane, and this is one of the finest example of the couple’s work together. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find them both familiar and innovative, as the mutual influence of the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous future recordings. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 10/12/2024Posted: 10/12/2024

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ THE BREAK EVEN POINT MOOD 33.619 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1979 Released: 1988 This is a reissue / remaster of the 3rd album (2nd studio recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The second lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also two British trumpeters Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Germany) saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist and German bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note). The album presents eight tracks, all of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: one each by Mangelsdorff, Carr, Kriegel, Thompson, Weber, Dauner, Mariano and Wheeler. The music is absolutely stunning and completely unusual for the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre. Due to the strong horn section it is conceptually closer to Brass Rock, but on the other hand it has a much more potent Jazz presence. All the members of the ensemble are superb instrumentalists with many years of experience and the level of the performances is phenomenal. With three trumpeters on board the Big Band sound is even more potent than on the two earlier albums and the brass arrangements are more complex. The overall sound of this album is similar to the sound of the British Jazz ensembles, like NucleusFind albums by this artist or Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist ensembles. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find them both familiar and innovative, as the mutual influence of the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous future recordings. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 22/12/2024Posted: 17/12/2024

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ UNITED LIVE OPUS SECHS MOOD 33.621 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1984 Released: 1988 This is a reissue / remaster of the 6th album (3rd live recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The third lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also British trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, German trumpeter Johannes FaberFind albums by this artist (who replaced Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist), American (resident in Germany) saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist and German bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note). The album presents six tracks, all of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: one each by Dauner, Kriegel (co-composed with his keyboardist Thomas BettermannFind albums by this artist), Carr, Mangelsdorff, Thompson and Weber. If anybody wanders what happened to the 5th album by the ensemble, it was a collection of tracks from the first four albums, appropriately called “Zwischenbilantz”, and is not included in this series of reviews. The music is absolutely stunning and completely unusual for the Jazz-Rock Fusion genre. Due to the strong horn section it is conceptually closer to Brass Rock, but on the other hand it has a much more potent Jazz presence. All the members of the ensemble are superb instrumentalists with many years of experience and the level of the performances is phenomenal. With three trumpeters on board the Big Band sound is even more potent than on the two earlier albums and the brass arrangements are more complex. The overall sound of this album is similar to the sound of the British Jazz ensembles, like NucleusFind albums by this artist or Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist ensembles. This live recording proves how the strong the ensemble was live and how masterfully they handled the complex arrangements and multi-part compositions. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find them both familiar and innovative, as the mutual influence of the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous future recordings. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 29/12/2024Posted: 29/12/2024

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

UNITED JAZZ + ROCK ENSEMBLE ~ X MOOD 6582 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999 This is the 10th and last album (6th live recording) by the quintessential European Jazz / Fusion ensemble United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, established in 1975 by a group of European musicians, led by German keyboardist / composer / bandleader Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, British drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and his wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, German guitarist Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist (who does not play on this album) and trombonist Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The sixth and last recording lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also British trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, German trumpeter Thorsten BenkensteinFind albums by this artist, German saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Germany) bassist Dave KingFind albums by this artist and Australian (resident in Germany) guitarist Peter O`MaraFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the iconic MoodFind albums on this label Records label (see Side Note) and presents nine tracks, all of which are original compositions by the ensemble members: two by O`Mara and one each by Mangelsdorff, Carr, Dauner, Lauer, Thompson and van Rooyen, and finally one co-composed by Hiseman and Thompson. United Jazz + Rock Ensemble continued to perform until 2002, and disbanded following a farewell tour. In 2012 Dauner formed a short lived United Jazz + Rock Ensemble Second GenerationFind albums by this artist, which recorded a single album “Wolfgang Dauner`s United 2Find albums with this title” (released on ConnectorFind albums on this label Records label), which consisted of new musicians, except his son Florian DaunerFind albums by this artist and Dave King. The album reflects the constant musical development of the ensemble and seemingly endless collection of musical ideas. The music becomes ever more complex and ambitious, often of orchestral scale, but never loses an iota of the Rock and Funk elements, combining everything into a unique amalgam, which always kept them apart from any competition or comparison. With three trumpeters on board the Big Band sound is always potent and the brass arrangements are more complex than ever. All members of the group get an opportunity to solo, but the main idea is to present an “ensemble” sound, rather than a collection of individuals. The fact that the ensemble sounds as good live as in the studio testifies as to the remarkable level of musicianship and the joy of playing together. Listeners familiar with the recordings by the individual members of the ensemble will often find the recordings by the ensemble quite different and innovative, as the mutual influence between the band members is very dominating. The ensemble manages to establish a unique sound and style, which will be recognizable as their own on their numerous recordings over time. Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unusual Fusion album, a true classic of the genre and great example of the sophistication of European Jazz. The entire recorded legacy of the ensemble is a must in any serious Jazz / Fusion record collection. Side Note MoodFind albums on this label Records, established in 1977 and based in Germany, was a small independent record label founded by European Jazz musicians: German Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and Dutch Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist. The label was active between 1977 and 2006 and released 78 albums, first on vinyl and later on CD. In 2010 the label released 11 2CD albums with reissues of early vinyl albums. The label was the home label of the four founders, as well as the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist’s NucleusFind albums by this artist and many other, mostly European musicians. The total output of the label is a superb document of the European Jazz scene between the late 1970s and mid-2000s. Some of these albums are absolutely essential.

Updated: 09/01/2025Posted: 09/01/2025

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.27 POLSKIE RADIO 2059 (Barcode: 5907812247126) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 Released: 2016 This is the twenty-seventh installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well. The tracks presented here were recorded live in December 1965 during the eighth Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw and are the second volume of a collection of tracks from that event. The first two tracks present a trio led by one of the Godfathers of modern European Jazz, the German pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist with bassist Klaus KochFind albums by this artist and drummer Reinhard SchwartzFind albums by this artist. They perform two original compositions by Kuhn and the performance is one of the earliest examples of European Free Jazz. Kuhn´s performance here is absolutely stunning as everything he played at the time, before he moved from East German to West Germany. The fact that his Free Jazz playing was tolerated by the GDR regime is a fascinating story by itself. More details about his activity around the time this music was recorded ban be found in the review of the Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist´s album "Live At Kosmos, BerlinFind albums with this title", which was recorded just a month earlier. The next four tracks present a quintet led by another Godfather of modern European Jazz, the German trombonist / composer Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist with saxophonists Gunter KronbergFind albums by this artist and Heinz SauerFind albums by this artist, bassist Gunter LentzFind albums by this artist and drummer Ralf HubnerFind albums by this artist. They perform three original compositions by Mangelsdorff and one composition by the British trumpeter / composer Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, a great pioneer of modern British Jazz. Although the music performed by the Albert Mangelsdorff quintet is not as Free Jazz oriented as that by Joachim Kuhn, it is a superb of early modern European Jazz, which was already emancipated from the American Jazz influence and clearly showed the new direction being created in Europe. Both these performances show the importance of German musicians as co-creators of early European Jazz. The last track present a sextet led by yet another Godfather of modern European Jazz, the Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej TrzaskowskiFind albums by this artist with American trumpeter Ted CursonFind albums by this artist (who was living in Europe at the time), saxophonists Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, bassist Jacek OstaszewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Adam JedrzejowskiFind albums by this artist. They perform one extended original composition by Trzaskowski. The music is again a stunning example of early modern European Jazz and a great precursor of the explosion of the Polish Jazz scene, which was happening at the time. The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.

Updated: 03/12/2016Posted: 03/12/2016

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

MIKE WESTBROOK ~ METROPOLIS BGO 454 (Barcode: 5017261204547) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1971 Released: 1999 If the 1960s served as a period of establishment of the British Jazz scene, with scores of extremely talented instrumentalists and composers coming to prominence, surely the 1970s marked the “emancipation of British Jazz from American slavery”, a phrase brilliantly defined by British trumpeter / composer / musicologist / writer Ian CarrFind albums by this artist. One of the distinct heroes and champions of this new path was undoubtedly pianist / composer Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, whose compositions for large Jazz ensembles were the British answer and equivalent to the body of work composed by the great Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist. MetropolisFind albums with this title marks a high point in a series of brilliant works composed by Westbrook and recorded by large ensembles comprising of the creme de la creme of British Jazz musicians. Westbrook sublimely expands the Ellingtonian framework with the inclusion of multi-layered sound ambience, group improvisation and Rock rhythms, creating a completely innovative and spectacular musical phenomenon, somewhat comparable to contemporary Classical music, but firmly based in Jazz idioms and traditions. “Metropolis” was recorded by an ensemble, which included 23 musicians, each and every one of which are absolute Masters of their trade, including Westbrook on piano, Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist, Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, George KhanFind albums by this artist and John WarrenFind albums by this artist on saxophones, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist on trumpets, Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist and Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist on trombone, John TaylorFind albums by this artist on electric piano, Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist on guitar, Harry MillerFind albums by this artist and Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist on bass, Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist and John MarshallFind albums by this artist and drums and the divine Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist on vocals – more or less the entire core of modern British Jazz. The music is of course magnificent, full of pathos and expression with not a single dull moment from start to finish, and the performances absolutely chilling with one solo chasing another. There are few Jazz albums that come close to this masterpiece and although it is relatively little known by Jazz fans worldwide (as most great music) it is an absolute classic and a must for any serious listener, equivalent to hundreds of other less meaningful albums. Absolutely essential!

CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

ZYKLUS ~ VIRTUAL REALTIES AMP 017 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Ambient Fusion Recorded: 1989 - 1991 Released: 1991 This is the only album by British Ambient Jazz quartet ZyklusFind albums by this artist, formed by keyboardist / electronic music composer John L. WaltersFind albums by this artist and keyboardist / composer Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, which also included trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and guitarist / drummer Warren GrevesonFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are original compositions by the quartet members and one is a re-composition of Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist’s “Round Midnight”, which is among the most touching renditions of the tune I have ever heard. This album is one of the most obscure and forgotten British Jazz gems, and is the last recording by Ardley, before he made a career change to become a prolific writer. The music is a pioneering amalgam of Jazz and electronic music, which at the time of its recording was pretty unprecedented. The music includes an arrangement of a fragment of Ardley’s “Kaleidoscope Of RainbowsFind albums with this title” and its general ambience is quite similar to his famous works. Although Carr did nor compose any music on this album, his brilliant trumpet parts are definitely one of the highlights and his incredible talent to use dynamic in favor of the required effect to suit the music is clearly evident herein. Since he plays the only acoustic instrument, he is in charge of the electro-acoustic balance, which this music is all about. Carr’s enthusiasts might find his playing on this album as some of his most beautiful work ever. Overall this highly original and unusual album is a gem worth to be discovered, which offers innovative approach to create Ambient Jazz without crossing over to synthesized kitsch, and which kept its aesthetic and Artistic values completely untouched by time. Probably not easy to find a copy but definitely worth every effort, this album is a must in every comprehensive British Jazz collection.

Updated: 01/08/2021Posted: 01/08/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend