Record Reviews

RONNIE SCOTT QUARTET ~ BBC JAZZ CLUB 1964-1966 RHYTHM AND BLUES 063 (Barcode: 5060331752219) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1964 - 1966 Released: 2020 This is an archival album by the British Jazz quartet led by legendary saxophonist Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist, known worldwide as the co-owner / co-founder (with Pete KingFind albums by this artist) of London’s most iconic Jazz Club, established in 1959 and located first at 39 Gerrard Street and in 1965 moved to the nearby current location (yes the club is still functional today) at 47 Frith Street. In all those years the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club became the de facto European Mecca not only for British Jazz, but for top Jazz Artists from all over the world. The album presents three sessions featuring the quartet: three tracks from 1964 (with an announcement by Scott) with pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist, bassist Malcolm CecilFind albums by this artist and drummer Jackie DouganFind albums by this artist; three tracks from 1965 with Tracey, bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist and drummer Ronnie StephensonFind albums by this artist; and finally five tracks from 1966 (with announcements by Humphrey LittletonFind albums by this artist) with Tracey, bassist Freddy LoganFind albums by this artist and drummer Bill EydenFind albums by this artist with great American vocalist Mark MurphyFind albums by this artist (resident at that time in UK) on two tracks, accompanied only by the piano trio. The music is all mainstream Jazz and all the tracks are standards, but it shows Scott as an excellent player with a personal delivery and a keen eye (well ear) for the musicians he selected for the quartet, which were definitely some of the finest players around at the time. Tracey of course was also a full-fledged composer and leader of his own, and was the house pianist at Ronnie’s Jazz Club for over seven years (1960-1967), definitely not by chance. Although Scott himself was not swept by the charms of the British Jazz revolution, which created a new sound and approach to the music, and remained faithful to the American (mostly Bebop) tradition, he was very open-minded as a person and respected the young and experimenting generation. He offered the club at the old location for as long as the lease lasted, which was named the “Old Place”, to be used by young musicians to rehearse and perform and the “house musician” position was offered to such distinguished modernist as Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. Overall this album is a nice reminder of Scott – the saxophonist and is a valuable addition to his recorded legacy, especially since this material is available here for the first time and offers quite reasonable sound quality.

Updated: 10/07/2021Posted: 10/07/2021

CD 1 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

GEORGIE FAME ~ THE COMPLETE LIVE BROADCASTS I RHYTHM AND BLUES 065 (Barcode: 5060331752226) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1964 - 1967 Released: 2021 This is an archival 2CD album presenting the BBC broadcasts by the British vocalist / organist / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist and his group The Blue FlamesFind albums by this artist. The first CD presents thirty-three tracks recorded between December 1964 and December 1965. The second CD presents thirty-one tracks recorded between February 1966 and July 1967, and includes four tracks recorded with the vocalist LuluFind albums by this artist and eight tracks recorded with The Harry South Big BandFind albums by this artist. Fame, my all-time favorite British vocalist, was quite a strange phenomenon on the burgeoning local Rhythm And Blues scene, which give birth to an immense number of groups like The Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist and eventually the entire British Rock scene. While the majority of these musicians followed initially the Blues trail, Fame (and a few others) was much more involved with Jazz influences, which are clearly evident on the tracks present here. The Blue Flames included a three-man horn section with trumpeter Eddie ThorntonFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Peter CoeFind albums by this artist and Glen HughesFind albums by this artist, as well as Jazz drummer Bill EydenFind albums by this artist, guitarist Colin GreenFind albums by this artist, bassist Tex MakinFind albums by this artist and percussionist Speedy AcquayeFind albums by this artist. In time saxophonists Lyn DobsonFind albums by this artist and Johnny MarshallFind albums by this artist, trombonist Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist and drummers Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist and Hughie FlintFind albums by this artist all played in Fame’s band. The material includes a mixture of Fame’s early hits (“Yeh Yeh” and “In The Meantime”) and less know material, all perfectly recorded and although in mono, sound brilliantly fresh, and considering the fact that this is the first time they can be enjoyed in full, this album is worth its weight in gold. Since I was convinced that I owned everything Fame has ever recorded, this was a huge surprise and the fact that a second volume of stuff is in preparation is even more exciting. Can’t wait! For Fame followers this stuff is absolutely essential and none of them would like to miss this (or the next volume) in their collections. Heaven on earth!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 12/08/2021

CD 2 Recommend To A Friend

JIMMY WITHERSPOON ~ LIVE IN LONDON 1966 RHYTHM AND BLUES 066 (Barcode: 5060331752349) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion Recorded: 1966 Released: 2021 This is an archival album by the American Blues singer Jimmy WitherspoonFind albums by this artist recorded during his visit in London, accompanied by top British Jazz musicians. The album presents twenty tracks, recorded during three separate sessions. The majority (thirteen) of the tracks were recorded at the legendary London pub “The Bulls Head”, with Witherspoon accompanied by the saxophonist Dick MorrisseyFind albums by this artist’s quartet with pianist Harry SouthFind albums by this artist, bassist Phil BatesFind albums by this artist and iconic drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist. On six additional tracks (two of which are instrumentals only) he is accompanied by saxophonist Peter KingFind albums by this artist and the same rhythm section as above. On one tack he is accompanied by the great Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist’s (who plays guitar) Blues IncorporatedFind albums by this artist with saxophonist Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist, pianist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, bassist Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Terry CoxFind albums by this artist. Except for three originals by Witherspoon, all the tracks are Blues / Jazz standards. The music is all a natural mixture of Blues and Jazz, clearly emphasizing the proximity between the two genres. Witherspoon obviously feels very comfortable with his British companions, being used to work with Jazz musicians back home and the Brits are familiar with the repertoire, which altogether makes the music sound completely natural and easy-going. There are no great surprises here, but the album is an excellent example of the diversity of the British Blues boom that exploded by the mid-1960s and declines almost as rapidly just half a decade later. That great movement included Blues, Jazz and early Rock musicians working shoulder to shoulder to create the British Blues, which took the American tradition of the genre a step further, adding a pinch of European aesthetics to the mixture. Overall this is a nice reminder of how the music created by visiting American Blues singers / musicians sounded when they were accompanied by British musicians, which happened quite often at the time. For Blues and British Jazz enthusiasts this is definitely an album worth pursuing.

Updated: 16/07/2021Posted: 16/07/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

SPONTANEOUS MUSIC ENSEMBLE ~ QUESTION AND ANSWER RHYTHM AND BLUES 068 (Barcode: 5060331752431) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 1966 Released: 2021 This is an archival release, which presents early recordings by the pioneering British Free Jazz / Improvised Music outfit, called Spontaneous Music EnsembleFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. SMEFind albums by this artist), fronted by drummer / composer John StevensFind albums by this artist, which also includes saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist, trombonist Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist and Australian bassist Bruce CaleFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks recorded live at a pub, as well as an Q&A session with the musicians, and additionally four trio tracks (less Rutherford), recorded a couple of months later at an unknown studio. The sound quality is a bit rough around the edges, but surely good enough to express the atmosphere and the magic of the music. The album’s booklet with text by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist, gives a wide historic perspective of the circumstances surrounding the music. Soon after Stevens formed the SME with Watts and Rutherford, the group begun a residency at the Little Theatre Club, and soon after recorded their debut album. The recordings on this album originate from just few months later on and are some of the earliest SME musical documents. Over the years the entire British (as well as many European improvisers) Avant-Garde Jazz scene took part in SME activities, making it one of the most formidable British / European foci of the genre. A plethora of SME lineup existed up to the untimely death of Stevens in 1994. Britain was definitely somewhat behind the burgeoning American Avant-Garde Jazz scene, which started in the late 1950s, and therefore what was considered as Free Improvisation in UK was much gentler and less radical than what was happening across the pond. The music played here still offers some basic themes, which are then improvised on, and the music more often than not still swings, at least to those listeners who can recognize that swing in Stevens’ drumming. Watts, improvising bravely and with unlimited expressionism, is only of the verge of becoming the Master Improviser he would become a few years later. Rutherford manages to raise some brows, being perhaps the most virtuosic performer at that point of time. Overall this is certainly a very important document as far as the British / European Avant-Garde history is concerned, and the fact that this music suddenly pops up five and half decades later is a major discographical event. Surely this will be of interest to many British Jazz fans around the globe and make many of them grateful for being able to enjoy it.

Updated: 19/06/2021Posted: 18/06/2021

CD 2 Recommend To A Friend

DICK MORRISSEY ~ AT THE BBC 1967 RHYTHM AND BLUES 074 (Barcode: 5060331752608) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1967 Released: 2021 This is an archival album by seminal British saxophonist / composer / bandleader Dick MorrisseyFind albums by this artist. The album presents two BBC sessions captured in June and October 1967 performed by his quartet, with included pianist Harry SouthFind albums by this artist, bassist Phil BatesFind albums by this artist and drummer Bill EydenFind albums by this artist. The two sessions produced twelve tracks, with three tunes repeated in both sessions, most being Jazz standards and just one original by South. The music is all well within the mainstream Jazz idiom, but formidably performed by the quartet and presents Morrissey as a wonderfully talented player, considered at the time as second only to the legendary Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist. Morrissey fans should definitely put their hands on the VocalionFind albums on this label twofer reissue “Here And Now And Sounding Good / Storm Warning!Find albums with this title” of his 1965/66 studio albums, which offer similar music to what can be herd here. The sound quality of these recordings if excellent, which of course makes listening to the music a true pleasure. Following his Bebop / Hard Bop period, by the end of the 1960s Morrissey switched to the Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom, first with the brilliant group IfFind albums by this artist, which lasted till 1975 and recorded eight albums and later with the Morrissey-Mullen BandFind albums by this artist, formed with guitarist Jim MullenFind albums by this artist, which lasted for fifteen years and recorded seven excellent albums. Morrissey died from cancer in 2000 at the age of 60, as usual in such cases way too early, as his glorious recording legacy proves.

Updated: 10/08/2021Posted: 10/08/2021

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

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

TUBBY HAYES ~ HIP! THE UNTOLD STORY OF TUBBY HAYES` 1965 RHYTHM AND BLUES 080 (Barcode: 5060331752790) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 Released: 2021 This is an archival 2CD album by the iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist. It presents three radio broadcasts, all previously unreleased, all captured in 1965, a year in which no studio recordings by Hayes were made and he did not head a regular ensemble of his own, as a result of his troubled personal life riddled by health and addiction problems. However, when it came to live performances, Hayes, as this album shows, was still the greatest saxophonist active on the British Isles at the time. CD1 presents a ten tracks broadcast by the Commonwealth Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by Hayes and featuring some of the greatest British Jazz musicians, like trumpeters Shake KeaneFind albums by this artist and Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Bobby WellinsFind albums by this artist and Ronnie RossFind albums by this artist, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist and others. Vocalist Joy MarshallFind albums by this artist appears on three tracks. The Big Band / Orchestra performs three originals by Hayes, including the fabulous “100% ProofFind albums with this title”, which will become the title track of his studio album two years later. Two more British originals are by trumpeter / composer of Jimmy DeucharFind albums by this artist, a regular Hayes’ collaborator. The rest of the material comprises of great arrangements of Jazz standards. CD2 presents two Hayes’ quartet broadcasts, with pianist Terry ShannonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummers Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist or Ronnie StephensonFind albums by this artist (who also plays on the Orchestra tracks). The last five tracks (second broadcast) offer a somewhat lower sound quality, but the quality of the music is certainly as admirable as the rest of the music on this album. The accompanying booklet offers an informative essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist, who is the author of the Tubby Hays biography, which of course is worth reading. Overall, this is a superb piece of British Jazz history, and a splendid reminder of the great talent of one of its most impressive heroes, who sadly left us tragically way to prematurely. Hayes was undoubtedly one of the greatest European saxophonist, and his talent was recognized also on the other side of the pond, which happened rarely. His pioneering ability to combine the Jazz tradition with modernism and even early Avant-Garde Jazz approach, in addition to his superhuman performing skills, makes him a legendary figure, which should be remembered by all.

Updated: 17/01/2023Posted: 17/01/2023

CD 2 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

DIRECTIONS IN JAZZ UNIT ~ NEW DIRECTIONS IN JAZZ 1963-64 RHYTHM AND BLUES 090 (Barcode: 5060331753018) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1963 - 1964 Released: 2022 This is an archival album presenting live recordings by the British Jazz ensemble Directions In Jazz UnitFind albums by this artist, led by vibraphonist / pianist / composer Bill Le SageFind albums by this artist. Those include a performance for the German NDR TV in Hamburg in 1964 and three (two in 1964 and one in 1963) sessions recorded by the BBC, altogether thirty-one tracks. In 1961 Le Sage formed a quartet with saxophonist Ronnie RossFind albums by this artist, bassist Spike HeatleyFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony CarrFind albums by this artist, which was the foundation later to be expanded into the Directions In Jazz Unit, which also included saxophonist / flautist Johnny ScottFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / clarinetist Bob BurnsFind albums by this artist and the Freddie Alexander Cello EnsembleFind albums by this artist (a string quartet), a revolutionary lineup by any standard at the time. Le Sage, Ross and Scott composed most of the music performed by the ensemble, which additional contributions by other members of the ensemble and an odd standard here and there. The music certainly includes the clear signs of the British Jazz making giant steps towards the emancipation from the American Jazz tradition and forming of an independent, unique new direction, which in the few short years to come would revolutionize British Jazz entirely. The unusual instrumentation used by the ensemble, with obvious European music influences, and the arrangements that are clearly more elegant and “relaxed”, as well as highly sophisticated, pave the way for the change to come. The quality of the original compositions is excellent from start to finish. Although the recording is in Mono, the sound quality is excellent and every note of the music is perfectly audible, except for the 1963 BBC session, which lacks the clarity of sound of the rest of the material, but is still quite acceptable, especially in view of the historic importance of this material. Overall, this is a wonderful time capsule of the early days of modern British Jazz, which is a delightful trip down the memory lane, and quite an educational perspective of the history of the British Jazz chronology. Kudos to the Rhythm And BluesFind albums on this label label for digging this material from the depths of the vaults and releasing it, keeping the memories alive. There is nothing more important than keeping our dying Culture alive, as long as we can.

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 01/10/2022

CD 2 Recommend To A Friend

TUBBY HAYES ~ LIVE AT THE FLAMINGO 1958 RHYTHM AND BLUES 092 (Barcode: 5060331753445) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1958 Released: 2023 This is an archival album by the iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist. It presents a previously unreleased live recording at the legendary Flamingo club in London, captured during the early days of Hayes’ career, before he achieved the top rank on the British scene. The music is performed by a formidable octet, with trumpeters Les CondonFind albums by this artist and Stuart HamerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Alan BranscombeFind albums by this artist, Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist and Hayes, pianist Terry ShannonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummer Bill EydenFind albums by this artist – a band that in fact existed only once for that particular concert. Three additional musicians guest on selected tracks. The album presents nine tracks, seven of which are standards and two are originals, one by Jimmy DeucharFind albums by this artist and another by Hayes. The accompanying booklet offers an informative essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist, who is the author of the Tubby Hays biography, which of course is worth reading. The music is of course still mostly in the American Bebop tradition, but clearly shows how the British musicians adopted that tradition and added a very specific “British touch” to it, already at that early stage. The individual performances are nothing short of brilliant and the octet arrangements are clever and sophisticated. The club atmosphere is a reminder why the Flamingo was a place to be in late 1950’s London, when one wanted to hear some great music (and for other less cultural reasons). The recording is mono, but offers quite reasonable sound quality, which enables everything to be heard properly, even if the drums are sometimes a tad too high in the mix, a small price to pay for the splendid music, which lost nothing of its vitality in the sixty-five years since it was recorded. Overall, this is a superb piece of British Jazz history, and a splendid reminder of the great talent of one of its most impressive heroes. Hayes was undoubtedly one of the greatest European saxophonist, and his talent was recognized also on the other side of the pond, which happened rarely. His pioneering ability to combine the Jazz tradition with modernism and even early Avant-Garde Jazz approach, in addition to his superhuman performing skills, makes him a legendary figure, which should be remembered by all, especially since he left us tragically way to prematurely.

Updated: 24/10/2023Posted: 19/10/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

ALEXIS KORNER’S BLUES INCORPORATED ~ BBC SESSIONS VOL.1 1962-1965 RHYTHM AND BLUES 097 (Barcode: 5060331753742) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 1962 - 1965 Released: 2024 This is an archival album, which presents recordings by Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist’s Blues IncorporatedFind albums by this artist, made in early 1960s by guitarist / pianist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Alexis Korner, the Godfather of British Blues. These recordings were made with a plethora of British Blues, Rock and Jazz musicians, reading like a who´s who of the British Blues / Blues-Rock / Rock And Roll / Jazz and early Jazz-Rock Fusion, comprising of dozens of names, which passed through Korner´s legendary group over time. As bizarre as it might appear, Korner was a white Jewish boy, born in Paris, who arrived in the UK in 1940, escaping the Nazi persecution, and who in time almost singlehandedly reanimated the interest in the Blues on the local British scene, leading to a phenomenon called the British Blues Revival, which started by the mid-1950s and literally exploded by the mid-1960s, when it became the British Blues Boom. In retrospect this musical idiom proved to be one of the most fundamental cornerstones of British Rock, later spreading also to the European continent. Korner´s charismatic personality and influence were a decisive factor leading to the formation of such musical icons as Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, FreeFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, CreamFind albums by this artist, ColosseumFind albums by this artist and countless others. Korner continued his career until his untimely death in 1984. The material collects recordings from six different sessions, a total of twenty-four tracks. The collective personnel taking part in these recordings includes, alongside Korner, vocalists Cyril DaviesFind albums by this artist, Long John BaldryFind albums by this artist and Herbie GoinsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist, Mick PyneFind albums by this artist, Nigel StangerFind albums by this artist, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and Bernie GeorgeFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Dave StevensFind albums by this artist, Johnny ParkerFind albums by this artist and Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, bassists Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist, drummers Charlie WattsFind albums by this artist, Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, Ronnie DunnFind albums by this artist and Terry CoxFind albums by this artist. It does not get any better than this, does it? Overall, this album is full of magnificent music, presented in chronological order by date of recording, which is an absolute treasure chest and a historic document of the outmost importance. Although the sound quality of some of the tracks, especially the early ones, is a bit shaky, the importance of the music sets everything aside. This is an absolutely essential release to all British Blues connoisseurs!

Updated: 02/10/2024Posted: 01/10/2024

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

HOWARD RILEY ~ BBC SESSIONS 1968-1970 RHYTHM AND BLUES 100 (Barcode: 5060331753827) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2024 This is an archival album, which presents recordings by the brilliant British Jazz pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and drummers Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist or Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, five with the trio with Hiseman recorded in 1968 and eight with the trio with Jackson recorded between 1969 and 1970. Most of the material was composed by Riley or Guy, but there are also a couple of standards and one tune by Annette PeacockFind albums by this artist. The material originates from the first three albums by the trio: “DiscussionsFind albums with this title”, “AngleFind albums with this title” and “The Day Will ComeFind albums with this title”, all essential British Jazz recordings. Riley is by far my favorite British Jazz Avant-Gardist, and his extensive recorded legacy is one of the pillars of the genre. He is mostly known for his work in the classic Jazz piano trio format, like the two trios preset here and the later trio with Guy and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. But he recorded in other ensembles with the crème de la crème of the British scene over the years and practically all his albums are instant classics. Sadly, my impression is that he never received the proper recognition as one of the Godfathers of the genre and many of his albums are almost completely unknown. For me, Riley is one of the most remarkable Jazz Artists, blessed by a remarkable ability to think out of the box. Although that specific quality should be integral to all Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Gardists, in fact is rather a rare quality, and many musicians belonging to these genres repeat patterns rather than inventing them. From the very early days of his career, like on these sessions, Riley’s approach to improvising was completely innovative and unlike anything / anybody else. His playing, completely Free on one hand, is also superbly melodic, on the other, despite how far he moves away from the source / original melody. This is particularly easy to spot in his interpretations of standards, but even more fascination while playing his original compositions. This album is a wonderful document, especially in view of the fact that this music is previously unreleased and offers a superb addition / extension to the three a.m. studio albums by Riley, which are of course also timeless gems. Although reissued, they are not easy to find, and absolutely worth the effort. Overall, this is an absolute must for every British Jazz lover and Avant-Garde Jazz enthusiast, anywhere on this planet. It offers some of the cleverest, most sophisticated and aesthetically satisfying music, which lost nothing of its power and zetz over time, and is still a stunning listening experience!

Updated: 25/09/2024Posted: 25/09/2024

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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