Record Reviews
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  | MIKE WESTBROOK ~ LIVE 1972 (CADILLAC 50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION)
CADILLAC 001 (Barcode: 5020675000421) ~ UK ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2023
This is an expanded / remastered reissue of an album by the iconic British Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, recorded with his extremely short-lived quintet, which featured him on electric piano together with saxophonist / flautist George KhanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, bassist Butch PotterFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded live and the original album was released on LP in 1973 as “LiveFind albums with this title” and presented only five-tracks. This new edition adds two previously unreleased performances, with all the music remastered by the lamented Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist at his Temple Music Studios. Although released previously in 2017 on the now defunct HUXFind albums on this label label, a copy of which is now impossible to find, this edition celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the legendary CadillacFind albums on this label label founded by John JackFind albums by this artist, as it was the first release on that label. It is absolutely delightful to see the British Jazz legacy being kept alive and the Cadillac label getting a second “life”.
For people not familiar with the original album, this music is a true revelation from start to finish. All the music was composed by Westbrook and includes small ensemble versions of some of his orchestral compositions, like “Marching Song” and “Metropolis” and some Free Form improvised music, or Free Jazz Fusion if one prefers, rarely associated with Westbrook in general, and as such especially unique. Five of the tracks on this album are over ten minutes in duration, which emphasizes the improvisational character of the music herein. The album is also an important document of George Khan’s talents, which sadly have little exposure on the many albums he plays on, certainly not as a Free Form improviser featured here, which is breathtaking.
Overall, this is a relatively little known episode in Westbrook’s extensive career, which together with the two albums recorded by the Solid Gold Cadillac band documents his Jazz-Rock Fusion adventures in the early 1970s and is a fascinating glimpse into his past. For the many Westbrook followers and British Jazz enthusiasts, this is a Holy Grail, absolutely worthy of an honorable place in any serious record collection.
| | Updated: 06/01/2024Posted: 06/01/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ISOTOPE ~ GOLDEN SECTION
CUNEIFORM 273 (Barcode: 045775027326) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2008
Relatively little known and surely deserving more recognition, the British Jazz-Rock Fusion band IsotopeFind albums by this artist, led by guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, recorded just 3 albums between 1974 and 1976, and these were soon out of general circulation. The only live recordings by the band available so far were the BBC sessions on HuxFind albums on this label Records, and therefore this collection of live material is a most welcome addition to the band´s recorded legacy. Recorded between 1974 and 1975, the material captures the second incarnation of the band, which included Boyle on guitar, Laurence ScottFind albums by this artist on keyboards, ex-Soft MachineFind albums by this artist bassist / composer Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist. Percussionist Aureo de SouzaFind albums by this artist was also a member of the band for several months, and the full quintet appears here for the first time on record. The three dates include a Radio Bremen performance (the Radio Bremen is a superb source of material for 1970s British music, second only to the BBC), the only US tour Isotope made in 1975 and an earlier UK recording from 1974. The music includes some of the material recorded on the 2nd Isotope album "IllusionFind albums with this title" and other pieces previously unheard, composed mostly by Boyle and Hopper. For Isotope fans this is an absolute delight, but any fun of the 1970s British Jazz-Rock scene will find this material indispensible.
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  | ATOMIC ROOSTER ~ DEVIL`S ANSWER
HUX 005 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Great recordings of this important group at the BBC from 1970-1972. The whaling Hammond organ of Vincent Crane and great drumming by Carl Palmer are the basis of an an explosive music, which sounds today as good as it did then.
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  | KEVIN AYERS ~ TOO OLD TO DIE YOUNG
HUX 006 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
The complete BBC sessions from 1972-1976, with a stellar line-up featuring Mike Oldfield, Ollie Halsall a.m.o. This material is a great companion to the Ayers` solo releases, which have been recently remastered. A must to all Canterbury fans and a real treat.
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  | GENTLE GIANT ~ OUT OF THE FIRE
HUX 008 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Live recordings for the BBC from 1973 & 1978. Includes live versions of material from `Free Hand` and some unreleased studio tracks. Superb quality and great playing and singing. The sound quality is much superior to the original GG studio albums, as always with the BBC recordings.
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  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ FROM THE BASEMENT
HUX 012 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1984
14th solo album by Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist, remastered and with a load of bonus tracks. Jazz-rock fusion style with a trio and solo solo guitar offerings.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GENTLE GIANT ~ TOTALLY OUT OF THE WOODS
HUX 018 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Live recordings for the BBC from 1970 - 1975. Includes live versions of material from studio albums and some unreleased studio tracks. A true treat for GG fans who always look for new material by this seminal Prog group. Superb sound quality.
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  | TIR NA NOG ~ SPOTLIGHT
HUX 021 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Tir Na Nog were one of the finest UK folk/Prog groups, based around the acoustic duo of Sonny Condell and Leo O`Kelly. Their unmatched vocal harmonies and gentle, but sophisticated guitar duets are a pleasure to the ear and heart. This album presents the group`s BBC sessions from 1972-73, which is the only live material available by this group.
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  | GRYPHON ~ ABOUT AS CURIOUS AS IT CAN BE
HUX 027 (Barcode: 682970000275) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2002
GryphonFind albums by this artist were one of the most important UK Prog groups of all times and since their recorded output is relatively limited, every new addition is more then welcome. This album offers for the first time two BBC recording sessions. Fantastic sound quality and of course marvelous music! A gem!
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  | 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.
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  | GRYPHON ~ GLASTONBURY CAROL
HUX 041 (Barcode: 682970000411) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1974 Released: 2003
GryphonFind albums by this artist recorded just a handfull of albums while they lasted and therefore every new discovery of their recorded legacy is an important event, especially in this case of two superb BBC recordings and special bonus studio material consisting of a `lost` single previously unreleased. The recording quality is perfect and the performance awsome. No Gryphon fan can live without this!
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  | ISOTOPE ~ LIVE AT THE BBC
HUX 048 (Barcode: 682970000480) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 - 1977 Released: 2004
BBC Radio recordings from 1973 and 1974 by IsotopeFind albums by this artist, led by the excellent guitar player Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, who were one of the best UK early jazz-rock fusion bands. The band unfortunately recorded only a few albums, which were soon deleted. These sessions add another superb example of how great this band was, with Boyle running scales with devilish speed and the rest of the band contributing some fine interplay. In addition 3 tracks from a 1977 BBC session by Boyle`s group are added. A delightful addition to the band`s heritage.
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  | PENTANGLE ~ THE LOST BROADCASTS 1968-1972
HUX 049 (Barcode: 682970000497) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1972 Released: 2004
Incredible collection of BBC Radio recordings of the UK Folk-Rock group PentangleFind albums by this artist. It captures the group during their first 5 years, when they recorded their 6 brilliant albums, but the material is hardly a repetition of those albums - in fact most of it does not appear anywhere before. This is a historical milestone in every sense and every Pentangle fan will go for this one with wide-open mouth. The quality of the sound is superb, as usual with the BBC recorded material.
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  | FOCUS ~ LIVE AT THE BBC
HUX 051 (Barcode: 682970000510) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2004
BBC Radio recording by the legendary Dutch Prog band FocusFind albums by this artist. After Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist left Focus he was replaced by the brilliant Belgian jazz / fusion guitarist Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist. This change was so refreshing, that the band`s material sounded fresh again and his virtuoso performances are the focal point of this album. The bands is full of fire and energy and without a shadow of a doubt this is one the the best Focus recordings ever. What a joy to Focus fans, who are always on the lookout for new material by the band. Highly recommended!
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  | FAMILY ~ BBC RADIO VOLUME 1 1968-69
HUX 057 (Barcode: 682970000572) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1969 Released: 2004
1st part of the collected BBC recordings by the seminal early UK Prog group FamilyFind albums by this artist. As usual, the sound quality of these recordings is superb, often better then original studio albums. These sessions were recorded by the first two lineups of the group (so called Mk.1 & Mk.2) and cover the first 3 albums. The quality of the tunes as well as the incredible skills of the musicians is evident and this is a most welcome addition to the Family recorded heritage. Family fans rejoyce!
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  | PSYCHIC WARRIOR ~ PSYCHIC WARRIOR
HUX 059 (Barcode: 682970000596) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2004
Only album by the brilliant, but short-lived British quartet comprising of keyboardist Alex MaguireFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, bassist Fred BakerFind albums by this artist and drummer Liam GenockeyFind albums by this artist. The first three musicians in the lineup are of course associated with the Canterbury scene, mostly on the Free Jazz and Improvised Music side of the genre. Maguire wrote most of the music for this session, with Dean co-composing one track. The music is, as always in the case of such great musicians, a brilliant display of both individual virtuosity and group improvisation, which need little introduction to connoisseurs of the genre. In view of Dean´s death, this is one of the latest studio sessions he played on and therefore a treasure. Not to be missed!
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  | FAMILY ~ BBC RADIO VOLUME 2 1971-73
HUX 060 (Barcode: 682970000602) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2004
2nd part of the collected BBC recordings by FamilyFind albums by this artist, documenting further incarnations of the group (Mk.3 to Mk.5) and the remaining 4 albums. During the entire period of the band`s existence it managed to maintain a superb level of musicianship with no quality loss whatsoever. The material is as strong as their earlier works, and often even more complex and sophisticated. A most welcome addition to the Family heritage!
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  | HERON ~ BLACK DOG
HUX 066 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Heron were one of the lesser known British Folk / Rock bands active in the 1970`s. They released 2 excellent albums in 1971 / 72 and more or less disappeared from the scene, with occasional performances about once in a decade. In 1997 three of the original members re-united and with a help of a fourth member recorded a series of songs which were enough to fill 2 whole new albums. One of them (River Of Fortune) was released privately by the band and this is the second one. The band managed to re-create the original sound and feel remarkably well and if not the liner notes it could be easily mistaken for an original 70`s recording. For fans of the genre this is a true joy!
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  | KEVIN AYERS ~ THE BBC SESSIONS 1970-1976
HUX 073 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Another splendid release from the BBC vaults presenting the extraordinary work of Canterbury hero Kevin AyersFind albums by this artist, spanning a period from his early Soft MachineFind albums by this artist days and later solo career. The list of musicians playing with Ayers on these sessions looks like a who’s who of early 1970’s Canterbury scene, Prog and Jazz combined: Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, Mike OldfieldFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, Andy SummersFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist, David BedfordFind albums by this artist, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Archie LeggettFind albums by this artist, Ollie HalsallFind albums by this artist & Zoot MoneyFind albums by this artist. The music is as adventurous and quirky as his usual output, with often humorous lyrics and plenty of instrumental passages to spice it all. This material is of immense historical importance and opens many windows to the understanding of the simmering UK musical scene at the time. The sound quality is excellent as usual for all the BBC recorded material. A must to all Canterbury scene fans.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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 |
  | MATCHING MOLE ~ ON THE RADIO
HUX 083 (Barcode: 682970000831) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2006
Although Matching MoleFind albums by this artist existed for barely a year, they are still considered one of the most important Canterbury scene bands and their musical legacy achieved legendary status over the years. Formed in late 1971 by Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, who left Soft MachineFind albums by this artist dissatisfied with the Free Jazz phase the band he founded was going through at the time, this new band was much closer stylistically to the Soft Machine Jazz-Rock period, which recorded ThirdFind albums with this title. The original lineup included (apart from Wyatt) the ex-CaravanFind albums by this artist keyboards wizard Dave SinclairFind albums by this artist, bassist Bill MacCormickFind albums by this artist and guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist. Pianist Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist joined later, playing alongside Sinclair and when Sinclair left he stayed on as the resident keyboards player. The band recorded two excellent albums: the self-titled debut Matching MoleFind albums with this title and Little Red RecordFind albums by this artist. Following the band’s split by the end of 1972, Wyatt started his solo career and Sinclair and Miller went on to form Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist and National HealthFind albums by this artist, the two most significant Canterbury bands ever. The CuneiformFind albums on this label label released two albums with live Matching Mole material in the 2000s (Smoke SignalsFind albums with this title and MarchFind albums with this title), but their BBC sessions reminded unreleased until now. This is the first time that the BBC sessions, recorded between January and April of 1972, can be heard by the numerous fans of the band, myself included. Both the quintet and the later quartet versions of the band can be heard. The music is of course phenomenal and needs no further recommendation, something any Canterbury fan around the globe will surely agree with.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | RICK WAKEMAN ~ LIVE AT THE BBC
HUX 085 (Barcode: 682970000855) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2007
By the time the two concerts featuring Rick WakemanFind albums by this artist and his English Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist were recorded, the young keyboards wizard had already behind him a list of achievements that few others manage to accomplish in a lifetime. Wakeman played on endless studio sessions for the top UK acts, was a members in two seminal Prog bands StrawbsFind albums by this artist and YesFind albums by this artist and composed and recorded a series of musical epics of grand proportions: The Six Wives Of Henry VIIIFind albums with this title, Journey To The Centre Of The EarthFind albums with this title, The Myths And Legends Of King Arthur And The Knights Of The Round TableFind albums with this title, White RockFind albums with this title (the soundtrack for the Winter Olympic Games) and most recently his first album with his English Rock Ensemble: No Earthly ConnectionFind albums with this title. The two concerts recorded for the BBC were a part of Wakeman’s promotion tour of the last album. With Wakeman’s enormous array of keyboards and the six-piece English Rock Orchestra (Ashley HoltFind albums by this artist – vocals, Roger NewellFind albums by this artist – bass, John DunstervilleFind albums by this artist – guitar, Tony FernandezFind albums by this artist – drums, Reg BrooksFind albums by this artist – trombone and Martin ShieldsFind albums by this artist – trumpet) produced a truly awesome, powerful orchestral sound, which suited Wakeman’s dramatic compositions perfectly. The music includes excerpts from all the Wakeman’s solo albums mentioned above, as well as material from the last album. Although the two concerts include some parallel material, each performance is quite unique and therefore none of it is redundant. This is undoubtedly Wakeman’s finest hour ever and considering the great sound quality of these recordings perhaps the best live album he ever made. Quite honestly this album is more or less the essence of Wakeman’s output and except for fanatic Wakeman fans is quite sufficient as his spot in one’s music collection. Definitely most wholeheartedly recommended!
Side Note: Unfortunately things went pretty downhill for Wakeman from that point on. Although he is to this very day one of Rock’s most prolific composers, his totally unrestrained policy on releasing his albums, which resulted in a monstrous (I stopped counting a long time ago but they must be well over 200) amount of albums, which totally destroyed his credibility. Sure there is a lot of great music in those albums, but none of it was innovative or neoteric enough to make any difference. Overproducing can be disastrous and unfortunately Wakeman is a living proof of that.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | INCREDIBLE STRING BAND ~ ACROSS THE AIRWAVES
HUX 087 (Barcode: 682970000879) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1974 Released: 2007
Incredible String BandFind albums by this artist was one of the most bizarre phenomena on the UK Folk-Rock scene. Formed in 1966 by two folkies Mike HeronFind albums by this artist and Robin WilliamsonFind albums by this artist the band carried on until 1974 with ever changing lineups and kept releasing albums and building up a cult status. They were quite unique in their approach to music, expanding the basic folk roots (both UK and US) into Psychedelic and World Music areas as well as Brechtian cabaret. They always preferred experimentation and hippie attitude to music perfection. The band often included members with very limited musical abilities (girlfriends, roadies and dancers) with off-key singing and seemingly sloppy musical approach, but thanks to the extraordinary songwriting by Heron and Williamson it all worked out magically. One might put the ISB in the same camp with other weird Folk-Rock based ensembles like Third Ear BandFind albums by this artist, Tyrannosaurus RexFind albums by this artist or ComusFind albums by this artist. This album is of immense importance as it collects for the first time recordings of the ISB BBC sessions recorded between 1969 and 1974. As with all other matters, ISB approach to their BBC appearances was quite different from most bands. They used the sessions to perform new material, which was mostly not included on any of their albums, therefore making most of the music included here available for the first time. For all ISB fans this is quite a revelation of course and they’ll surely be delighted to put their hands on this album. For people not familiar with ISB output, this is a wonderful opportunity to try them out. Recommended.
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  | PETER IVERS / BAND ~ KNIGHT OF THE BLUE COMMUNION
HUX 088 (Barcode: 682970000886) ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2007
This is one of those legendary albums that a lot of people have heard about, but very few actually heard, or at least until recently when the album was reissued. American harmonica player Peter IversFind albums by this artist was a polymath, a Renaissance man of many talents. He was not only a gifted musician / composer, but also a writer, TV personality and avid follower of martial arts. His love for the Blues induced his decision to pick up the harmonica as his tool of musical expression, but his usage of that instrument was completely different and almost Avant-Garde in comparison to the instrument’s Blues roots. Active on the lively Boston scene, Ivers rubbed shoulder with many famous garage (and not so garage) local bands and by sheer fluke of luck landed a contract with EpicFind albums on this label – a major record label (subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). For the recording of his debut album Ivers assembled a great group of musicians, which was quite “different” in every respect. By listing the instruments played by the group’s members: harmonica, oboe, bassoon, sax, guitar, acoustic bass, percussion and intermodulator (an early electronic instrument) one already sees that this was no ordinary group by any means. Add to this the fantastic female vocalist Yolande BavanFind albums by this artist, who fronted the band and poet Tim MayerFind albums by this artist, who supplied the lyrics and you get one of the most unique US bands of the era, which is often compared to Captain BeefheartFind albums by this artist or early Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist in their unorthodox musical approach. This debut album is special in every respect: the complex music, the unusual use of the woodwinds and brass and the mesmerizing vocals, all combined creating a weird and wonderful sonic experience. Naturally the album was a total commercial flop and although Epic did record a send album with the band, it was shelved. The only glance of that album – a single - is featured here as bonus tracks. The second album was recorded with another sensational female vocalist, Asha PuthliFind albums by this artist. Ivers went on to record two more albums for Warner Bros., but these were significantly less successful. He died mysteriously in 1983. This album remains to this day as one of the most interesting documents of an era, when everything was conceivable and some of it doable. Very interesting!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PENTANGLE ~ ONE MORE ROAD / LIVE 1994
HUX 089 (Barcode: 682970000893) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1993 - 1994 Released: 2007
PentangleFind albums by this artist, the finest of the many UK Folk-Rock bands, went through two distinct life cycles. The original band, which was active between 1968 and 1972, left us a wonderful legacy of 6 splendid album released originally on the legendary UK folk oriented TransatlanticFind albums on this label label and reissued (and expanded) on CD by CastleFind albums on this label. That period was also documented by the release of the original band’s BBC recordings on the HuxFind albums on this label label in 2004 (The Lost Broadcasts 1968-1972Find albums with this title). In 1984 two of Pentangle’s founding members singer Jacqui McSheeFind albums by this artist and guitarist John RenbournFind albums by this artist reformed the band again. This second incarnation of the band started off with the five original members but later on went through many personnel changes until the final version of the band crystallized around 1989 and kept together till 1994. This last version of the band included Jacqui, Bert JanschFind albums by this artist and three other Folk-Rock veterans: Nigel Portman-SmithFind albums by this artist (bass, piano and vocals – ex Magna CartaFind albums by this artist), Gerry ConwayFind albums by this artist (drums – ex FotheringayFind albums by this artist and Jethro TullFind albums by this artist) and Pete KirtleyFind albums by this artist (guitar - ex Alan Price SetFind albums by this artist, GriffinFind albums by this artist, Riff RaffFind albums by this artist and many other bands). The second Pentangle recorded also 6 albums, three of which were recorded by the last lineup above. Alas these albums are almost completely neglected and have been out of print for many years. This beautiful album brings us splendidly remastered versions of the last two Pentangle albums: One More RoadFind albums with this title – the last studio album and Live 1994Find albums with this title – their swan song. There is hardly any need to recommend these masterpieces to a serious Folk-Rock fan. Let’s just be grateful this material is available again and enjoy every minute of it to the fullest. Brilliant!
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  | HAROLD MCNAIR ~ THE FENCE
HUX 095 (Barcode: 682970000954) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
Saxophonist / flautist / composer Harold McNairFind albums by this artist has been one of the greatest (and sadly unsung) heroes of the British Jazz scene. A brilliant instrumentalist he was one of the busiest studio musicians and took part in countless recording sessions, including those by famous Rock acts. He was a permanent member of DonovanFind albums by this artist’s group and recorded many albums with him. Of course he was also active on the Jazz scene, both as a leader and sideman. He recorded several albums, of which this is the last released while he was still alive, shortly before his life was tragically cut short by lung cancer at a ridiculously young age. His last eponymous album was released posthumously. This beautiful album was recorded with Harold’s musician friends and admirers, all great stars and Jazz heroes themselves: Keith TippettFind albums by this artist and Alan BranscombeFind albums by this artist on piano, Colin GreenFind albums by this artist on guitar, Rick GrechFind albums by this artist and Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist on bass and Terry CoxFind albums by this artist and Tony CarrFind albums by this artist on drums. Harold plays saxes and flute – my preferred instrument in his hands. The music has a slight Caribbean feel, and includes one original composition by Harold. It’s difficult for me to shed the nostalgic attachment to this album, as Harold has been one of my favorite musicians for a very time, but I think the albums stands the test of time beautifully and should be enjoyed by most Jazz loving people around the globe. Bliss!
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  | INCREDIBLE STRING BAND ~ TRICKS OF THE SENSES (RARE AND UNRELEASED RECORDINGS 1966-1972)
HUX 100 (Barcode: 682970001005) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1966 - 1972 Released: 2009
This wonderful collection of previously unreleased material by one of the most enigmatic bands of the 1960s / 1970s, Incredible String BandFind albums by this artist, is certainly a major event as far as many fans of the group are concerned, especially in view of the high quality (both sonically and artistically) of the material included. Taken from original master tapes (live and studio) one can find here rehearsal tapes, album outtakes and alternate versions and radio recordings obtained from the WitchseasonFind albums on this label and IslandFind albums on this label labels archives. Spanning the period of 6 years, the material is presented chronologically and reflects the ever changing character of the group. Accompanied by an extensive booklet with informative notes and great photographs, this is a superb example of the dedication and hard work invested by some reissue labels into their products, with the wonderful HuxFind albums on this label label certainly spearheading the pack. An absolute must to any ISB fan!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FAMILY ~ BBC RADIO VOLUME 3 1970
HUX 107 (Barcode: 682970001074) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2009
3rd part of the collected BBC recordings by the seminal early UK Prog group FamilyFind albums by this artist. As usual, the sound quality of these recordings is superb, often better then original studio albums. These sessions were recorded by the second lineup of the group (so called Mk.2), which included bassist John WeiderFind albums by this artist and multi-instrumentalist Poli PalmerFind albums by this artist, and cover the material mostly included on the 3rd and 4th albums ("A Song For MeFind albums with this title" & "AnywayFind albums with this title"). This lineup was the strongest and most versatile incarnation of the group. The quality of the tunes as well as the incredible skills of the musicians is evident and this is a most welcome addition to the Family recorded heritage. The album includes all previously unreleased recordings; some sought to be lost completely before miraculously uncovered here. Family fans rejoyce!
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  | HOWARD RILEY ~ ANGLE / THE DAY WILL COME
HUX 141 (Barcode: 682970001418) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second and third albums by British Jazz pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, both recorded in a trio format with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist plays on one track of the debut album, which presents eight original compositions, all by Riley. The second album presents twelve original compositions, six each by Riley and Guy. These two albums were originally released in 1969 and 1970 respectively, by CBSFind albums on this label (the European branch of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). This reissue is in fact a reissue of the 1999 remastered editions of these two albums, which disappeared from the market immediately following their release.
Together with these two albums, CBS, initially under the Realm Jazz moniker and later just as CBS, released also several albums by other British Jazz musicians such as the first two albums by drummer / composer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, the first three albums by guitarist Ray RussellFind albums by this artist and debut albums by vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, as well as albums by groups like Rock WorkshopFind albums by this artist, Soft MachineFind albums by this artist and others. All these are exceptional examples of completely non commercial / highly artistic music released by a Major record label, a phenomenon which reflected the spirit of that particular era and lasted for a very brief period of time, sadly never to be repeated again
By the time this music was recorded, i.e. by the late 1960s, British Jazz underwent a dramatic transformation, a quantum leap no less, from imitation to innovation. After copying the American Jazz tradition for decades, the post WWII generation rebelled and rapidly found its own methods of expression, embracing such diverse influences as contemporary European Classical music, World-Music and Rock and amalgamating them into a new identity, which would become first modern British Jazz and soon after copied all over Europe, including even the countries behind the Iron Curtain, modern European Jazz. In the aftermath of these remarkable events British Jazz scene was encompassing a diverse rage of stylistic alternatives, from Jazz-Rock and Jazz-World Fusions, via modern mainstream to a whole range of alternative / Avant-Garde experimentation including Free Jazz and Improvised Music.
It takes just a brief moment into the first album to realize that Riley belongs to the Avant-Garde oriented group of British musicians, who value freedom of expression and individuality more than convention and acceptance. Even on these two early albums he is already well advanced in his experimentation, keeping melody only as an entry point to his music, which is entirely based on the dialogue (or in this case trialogue) and collective improvisation, rather than on following the chord progressions of standards and keeping regular time signatures. Guy, who was just over twenty years old when this music was recorded, proves to be an ideal partner, a born adventurer and complete nonconformist. His bass playing on these two albums is an encyclopedic textbook of improvised music moves for fellow bassists, developed completely spontaneously and subconsciously. But it is Jackson, who is the biggest surprise on these albums, considering his almost entirely conventional background before these sessions as one of Britain´s most sought after modern mainstream drummers. His wonderful integration with Riley and Guy here is simply sensational and a superb proof of his open-mindedness and musicality.
In the years that followed these sessions Riley would record many more wonderful albums in many different settings, but these two albums would always symbolize his individuality and prophetic vision. The early signs of his exceptional abilities, which were about to push the boundaries of music and contribute to its development, influencing generations of players, are clearly evident herein, turning these albums into instant classics.
The most startling realization one is faced with, while listening to these two albums, is the fact that not only the music did not age or lost any of its relevance, but it still is right there on the forefront of the musical Art Form, exactly where it was almost fifty years ago. These iconic recordings have earned their position in the Pantheon of British Jazz right from the moment they were recorded, and their unavailability during most of the time that passed since was a crime against culture, somewhat repented by this current reissue.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE WESTBROOK ~ LIVE 1972
HUX 151 (Barcode: 682970001517) ~ UK ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2017
This is an expanded / remastered reissue of an album by the iconic British Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, recorded with his extremely short-lived quintet, which featured him on electric piano together with saxophonist / flautist George KhanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, bassist Butch PotterFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded live and the original album was released in 1973 as “LiveFind albums with this title” on the legendary CadillacFind albums on this label label as a five-tracks LP. This new edition adds two previously unreleased performances, with all the music remastered by the lamented Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist at his Temple Music Studios.
For people not familiar with the original album, this music is a true revelation from start to finish. All the music was composed by Westbrook and includes small ensemble versions of some of his orchestral compositions, like “Marching Song” and “Metropolis” and some Free Form improvised music, or Free Jazz Fusion if one prefers, rarely associated with Westbrook in general, and as such especially unique. Five of the tracks on this album are over ten minutes in duration, which emphasizes the improvisational character of the music herein. The album is also an important document of George Khan’s talents, which sadly have little exposure on the many albums he plays on, certainly not as a Free Form improviser featured here, which is breathtaking.
Overall, this is a relatively little known episode in Westbrook’s extensive career, which together with the two albums recorded by the Solid Gold CadillacFind albums by this artist band documents his Jazz-Rock Fusion adventures in the early 1970s and is a fascinating glimpse into his past. For the many Westbrook followers and British Jazz enthusiasts, this is a Holy Grail, absolutely worthy of an honorable place in any serious record collection.
| | Updated: 21/01/2023Posted: 21/01/2023 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
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