Record Reviews
60 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | ARTHUR BROWN ~ TANTRIC LOVER
LEMON 147 (Barcode: 5013929774728) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2009
This criminally overlooked album by British maverick Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist marks his return to active musical life following the stroke he suffered, while on stage, in 1994. Older and more relaxed, Brown got together a superb acoustic band to accompany him on this album, which featured such distinguished players as drummer Malcolm MortimoreFind albums by this artist (Gentle GiantFind albums by this artist), guitarist Rik PattenFind albums by this artist, bassist / cellist Stan AdlerFind albums by this artist and several others. The set of twelve new songs written by Brown are all brilliant both musically and lyrically and his vocal delivery, especially against the acoustic background, is breathtaking. Brown´s voice seems to be completely untouched by time and his almost operatic range and intelligent dynamics is second to none. Since the original release of this album (on the VoiceprintFind albums on this label label) is now out of print, this is a great opportunity to get to know this marvelous album – don´t miss it as it is as good as his legendary debut recording, quite different of course, but equally brilliant. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GONGMAISON ~ LIVE AT THE FRIDGE LONDON
VOICEPRINT 007 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Gongmaison version of Gong existed in the late 1980s and early 1990s. They recorded only one studio album and this DVD is the first filmed document of their performances. Captured at a live gig in 1991, Gongmaison are playing a splendid mixture of psychedelia and jazz. Didier Malherbe is superb on saxes and flutes (and keyboards), but the real suprise is the outstanding violin work by Graham Clarke, who sets the stage on fire every time he takes a solo. Great stuff!
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN AKKERMAN ~ A TOUCH OF CLASS
VOICEPRINT 017 (Barcode: 604388663224) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1983 Released: 2005
Dutch guitar virtuoso Jan AkkermanFind albums by this artist is most widely known as the co-leader of the legendary band FocusFind albums by this artist. However, after leaving Focus, Akkerman developed a splendid solo career, which now spans over 30 years of activity. As a soloist, Akkerman proved to be a most versatile musician, playing both acoustic guitar (and many other acoustic guitar-related instruments) and electric guitar, all this in different genres, from classical music, early music, blues, jazz and fusion. His exceptional technique and highly developed musical taste place him in a class of his own. This excellent DVD brings to light some archival material not seen in many years. The main part of the DVD includes a 1983 TV special, filmed in London for the BBC. It includes his then current group performing material from Jan’s albums: Can`t Stand NoiseFind albums with this title and TabernakelFind albums with this title, interviews with Akkerman and BBC footage of Focus from 1973. The bonus material includes footage filmed 18 month later and capturing a rare performance of Akkerman using the guitar synthesizer. For many Akkerman / Focus fans this is an absolute must and a most enjoyable musical experience. NTSC
| | | DVD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE HASLAM ~ LIVE STUDIO CONCERT
VOICEPRINT 020 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Considering how rare any footage by Annie Haslam / Renaissance is, it is a great feast to have an opportunity to see and listen to this wonderful performance. Filmed in 1997 at the Prism TV Network studios in Philadelphia, Annie proves that she is still as good a singer as she ever was and her angelic voice remains intact. She gets a most sympathetic support from three musicians / friends (Rave Tesar – keyboards, David Biglin – keyboards and guitar and Joe Goldberger – drums) and the material includes some of her best known songs from her solo career and a few older Renaissance songs. The intimate setting of small studio audience provides Annie with an ideal environment to display her ability and get immediate feedback from the listeners. For the many Annie Haslam’s fans this is a Godsend.
| | | DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ ALIVE IN PARIS 1970
VOICEPRINT 045 (Barcode: 604388704200) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
Although the early period of the legendary Canterbury band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist is relatively well documented on record, especially in the last decade when many live recordings of the band have been unearthed, cleaned up and released, video material was so far almost completely nonexistent. Therefore if there is a Holy Grail of Canterbury scene, and of course of Soft Machine, this is it! This footage, filmed by French TV at the Theatre de la Musique is not only a stellar visual experience but also a great sonic document due to the theatre´s superb acoustic. The band is at their most creative peak of course and what´s more the quintet lineup here, including Lyn DobsonFind albums by this artist on saxes and flute, existed for a mere few months and is almost undocumented on record. Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and Robert WyattFind albums by this artist are the band´s backbone and of course everybody plays their hearts out in glorious harmony and high-spirited atmosphere. I don´t need to emphasize how great and groundbreaking this music is (as I have done repeatedly so many times already), so let´s just say that this is an essential piece of music history, which deserves a place in any serious music collection.
| | | DVD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | NATIONAL HEALTH ~ MISSING PIECES
VOICEPRINT 113 (Barcode: 604388301027) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1975 - 1979 Released: 1996
The last "piece of the puzzle", which completes the entire output recorded by the seminal group National HealthFind albums by this artist. Although a collection of unrelated pieces, this is still a great album. The music spans the period between 1975-1979 and includes material that was ommitted from the first 2 albums as well as some live recordings. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CRANE, VINCENT ~ TARO ROTA
VOICEPRINT 172 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Vincent Crane and Arthur Brown created this Prog suite after the split of `Crazy World Of Arthur Brown`. Very interesting music and of course great vocals by Brown make this little known musical jewel a fascinating discovery.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN GREAVES ~ KEW.RHONE.
VOICEPRINT 200 (Barcode: 604388303229) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 1997
The absolute classic album by John, with a stellar line-up including US friends Michael Mantler and Carla Bley. This music has been legendary since it was first released and this new reissue includes also some great video material (CD-ROM). A true masterpiece of Prog with strong jazzy influence.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ TURNS ON VOL.1
VOICEPRINT 231 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1967
Early live recordings of the Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, dating around the release of their first two albums and even before. The quality of the recording is problematic, but the material absoluterly great, so you must decide if this is something worth having. Great historical material.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ FACELIFT
VOICEPRINT 233 (Barcode: 604388306725) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2002
Any previously unreleased material by the seminal British band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist is always a great source of joy to the band´s many fans all over the world, even if similar material exists on other studio and live recordings. By the time this live recording was made, the band, which comprised of saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, made a dramatic transition from their initial psychedelic period into Jazz-Rock Fusion, with often bordered on Free Jazz. This recording, from April 1970, was made just prior to the band entering the studio to record their masterpiece "ThirdFind albums with this title" and following their six-night residency at the prestigious Ronnie Scott´s club in London. They were at one of their musical peeks, having played the material included on this album for quite some time, which of course allowed them to stretch out and take risks, as well as re-invent the music at a greater rate of freedom that is usually possible with new pieces. This explains why several of the pieces are expanded to last well over 10 minutes and one even over 20 minutes. Most of the music was composed by Ratledge, with Hopper contributing a few of his own pieces and one piece by Wyatt. There is no doubt that this was a very special night, as the level of interplay and inspiration is truly extraordinary, with some of the most adventurous improvisations ever achieved by these illustrious musicians. While playing this music, the band was literally changing the shape of music as known up to that point, clearly pointing towards uncharted territory. Definitely one of the great moments of early British Jazz, not be missed by anybody interested in Soft Machine or the period´s music. This album is often criticized for its poor sound quality; indeed it suffers from the primitive recording source, but honestly I think that every minute of this music is worth more that almost anything else recorded at the time, so poor sound quality or not, this is a treasure!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ TURNS ON VOL.2
VOICEPRINT 234 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1967 - 1968
Early live recordings of the Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, dating around the release of their first two albums and even before. The quality of the recording is problematic, but the material absoluterly great, so you must decide if this is something worth having. Great historical material.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GILES, GILES & FRIPP ~ THE BRONDESBURY TAPES (1968)
VOICEPRINT 235 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
This material was recorded by the core members of the soon to be King Crimson and was never previously released. Very interesting as a historic document that portrays the period and its trends. Some brilliant musical ideas are already clearly present here.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN ~ TANTRIC LOVER
VOICEPRINT 256 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
This is a surprising album from 2000, after several years of silence, from the master musician who shocked the Prog scene with the revolutionary Crazy World album in the early days of his career. It shows a gentle and more introvert side of Brown as a singer and songwriter, and the acoustic instrumentation brings out other qualities in his voice then we know from his past recordings. Very interesting indeed.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEKTAR ~ MAN IN THE MOON
VOICEPRINT 259 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Last album by this British Prog band from 1980, before they disbanded (to be re-united recently). Although more conventional then their previous efforts, the band is still a great unit here with evident talent and Prog ties. Songs are shorter then the epic Prog works they performed on the earlier albums, but melodies are great as ever and the production and performance spotless. Remastered.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROYE ALBRIGHTON ~ THE FOLLIES OF RUPERT TREACLE
VOICEPRINT 260 (Barcode: 604388310227) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2002
Debut solo album by Roye AlbrightonFind albums by this artist, the lead singer and guitarist of NektarFind albums by this artist. An excellent concept work, mostly intrumental. Some superb guitar playing in various styles, very tight and consistent with a dash of blues, funk and fusion. Guitar fans and the many fans of the group will love that one. Available on CD for the first time.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAEL GILES ~ PROGRESS
VOICEPRINT 264 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Unreleased album from 1978 now out for the first time! The list of musicians looks like the Who`s Who of the Canterbury scene and includes members of Caravan, Matching Mole and of course Michael`s brother Peter of the Giles, Giles and Fripp fame. The music, all written my Michael, is of course brilliant and the performances outstanding. How such a treasure went unreleased for such a log time is a mystery, but who cares now!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BADGER ~ ONE LIVE BADGER
VOICEPRINT 275 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Long awaited reissue of the only album by this band from 1972 and a great treat to all Yes fans, who were trying to find this since ages. Badger was formed by Tony Kaye upon leaving the keyboards chair in Yes, with some of the best players on the scene at that time. This album, recorded live, is unfortunately the only recorded testimony of this great band. Famous Roger Dean cover (his first!).
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MOTHER GONG ~ THE OWL AND THE TREE
VOICEPRINT 278 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
2nd album from 1990. Mother Gong was of course one of the many off-shot bands comming from the original Gong, this one being led by Gilli Smyth. Daevid Allen joins the group for this album and splits the vocal parts with Gilli, as well as contributing some of his songs. This is one of the best and most focused efforts to come out of the Gong camp from that troubled period.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GONG ~ HISTORIES AND MYSTERIES OF PLANET GONG
VOICEPRINT 279 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Originally released as a single album in 1989 now in much extended 2 albums version. This is a collection of live recordings and other strange tidbits (and when Gong goes strange...), all combined as a continuous sound collage. There is some absolutely best Gong material here, as well as some of the most obscure. For Gong fans this is a marvel! The first (original) album includes material spanning from 1962 to 1979 and the second one comes all from the 1980`s.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | KATE WESTBROOK ~ CUFF CLOUT
VOICEPRINT 310 (Barcode: 604388315123) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2003
British vocalist / lyricist Kate WestbrookFind albums by this artist, wife and musical companion of the celebrated pianist / composer Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, has been a singular figure on the local Art scene for decades. Her completely unique vocal approach as well as her exceptionally broad understanding and knowledge of the European literary and cultural heritage, make her a singular artistic personality of unparalleled quality. Combined with her knowledge of other European languages (French and German), which enables her to perform music written to accompany literary pieces in these languages and use the original versions, she is a perfect performer and a perfect partner for Mike Westbrook, similar to the role of the great Lotte LenyaFind albums by this artist with her husband Kurt WeillFind albums by this artist. This superb album presents a project originally staged in 1994 but recorded seven year later, in which Kate presents music composed by several of her favorite contemporary composers and to which she wrote original lyrics. Accompanied by a stellar cast of players, which includes among others saxophonists Chris BiscoeFind albums by this artist, Peter KingFind albums by this artist, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Kate delivers the texts with true artistry and the overall effect of the music and lyrics is truly overwhelming. Perhaps not for a casual listener, but this project is so elegant and sophisticated that true music lovers will definitely enjoy it to the fullest. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GONG ~ ACID MOTHERHOOD
VOICEPRINT 311 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Long awaited new album from 2004 by completely new and re-vamped Gong line-up featuring no less then three guitar players and no wind instruments. Daevid Allen and Gilli Smyth (on 1 track only) lead a wild bunch of musicians to another uncharted waters, with completely new sound resembling nothing familiar. The music is more agressive and disonant, but always challenging and surprising, as proper for Gong. A new band, a new chapter and new excitement.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ BREDA REACTOR
VOICEPRINT 345 (Barcode: 604388318520) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2004
Recorded live in Holland (Breda), this album documents the brief period in the history of this legendary band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (lasting only for about 3 months) when it included as a fifth member (in addition to the core members) the talented multi-instrumentalist Lyn DobsonFind albums by this artist. This marks a more jazzy sound then ever before, with both Dobson and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist exploring long and comples saxophone solos. The sound quality is surprisingly clear (as opposed to many other SM live recordings) and this is a most important document of the era.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIP PYLE / EQUIPE OUT ~ UP!
VOICEPRINT 348 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1990
2nd album by a jazz ensemble led by the legendary Canterbury Scene drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist. On this album they are a quartet with new member Paul RogersFind albums by this artist, a superb acoustic bass player, who brings the sound of the ensemble closer to the mainstream jazz sound, but the music remains fresh, modern and intelligent. Plenty of great solos by all four players and a good recording sound make this a true gem.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE HASLAM ~ BLESSING IN DISGUISE
VOICEPRINT 354 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded in 1994 (and released under the banner Annie Haslam`s Renaissance) this is one of Annie`s strongest solo albums since leaving the mother group. Produced by the legendary Tony Visconti (who also plays on the album and composed some of the tracks) the album resembles the original Renaissance in every aspect - sound, atmosphere, instrumentation, etc. The material is exceptionally strong (in fact much stronger then the late Renaissance albums), Annie`s voice crystal clear as ever - in short a masterpiece. Considering the fact that she recorded this album just after recovering from a breast cancer is a miracle in itself. The bonus tracks, although written in 1992, were recorded in 2002. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE HASLAM ~ LIVE UNDER BRAZILIAN SKIES
VOICEPRINT 355 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded live during Annie`s 1997 tour of Brazil, this nice album spotlights her solo career years after leaving the legendary Renaissance. The music includes a few Renaissance classics, as well as songs from her later solo albums. Haslam has never lost neither her absolutely wonderful, crystal clear voice, nor her tremendous feeling and ability to express music, which make her one of the greatest performers in Prog.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE HASLAM ~ DAWN OF ANANDA
VOICEPRINT 356 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded in 1999, this is Annie`s most serious solo project in many years. She wrote all of the lyrics to the songs included on the album and the wonderful music was composed by her veteran colleagues such as Michael Dunford (Renaissance), Rave Tesar and the legendary Tony Visconti, who also co-produced the album. The songs are all based on Annie`s deep personal feelings and experiences and the manages to transform those into music in full. This gentle, melodic, blissful music is perhaps to `sweet` for some, but I absolutely adore it.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE HASLAM ~ IT SNOWS IN HEAVEN TOO
VOICEPRINT 357 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Before you read any further - this is a `Christmas` album! So how come it is classified as Prog? Well, Annie Haslam has been associated with the genre since we all can remember and her vocal qualities are beyond dispute. And who better to record those songs then the Lady with the voice of an angel? Annie sings just brilliantly, and the songs, carefully arranged by Rave Tesar, sound just wonderful. The choice of material and the atmosphere are nothing like all those tacky X-mas albums we all know and despise - this is a masterpiece. The album was recorded in 2000.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE HASLAM ~ ONE ENCHANTED EVENING
VOICEPRINT 358 (Barcode: 604388319824) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2005
Recorded live in 2001, this is the latest (so far) solo album by the legendary vocalist. As she herself describes it - it contains a number of songs that she has wanted to record for a number of years, and that she feels have played an important role in her career. Some truly exqusit renderings of classic songs, including her version of `She`s Leaving Home` by the Beatles. What a delight! In 2002 Annie started (seriously) to paint and the cover art of this album is one of her paintings.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN`S CHILDREN ~ THE COMPLETE
VOICEPRINT 365 (Barcode: 604388320523) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1966 - 1967 Released: 2005
This album collects all the recordings, including their only album "OrgasmFind albums with this title", singles and many bonus tracks, by the UK Psychedelic group John`n ChildrenFind albums by this artist, known only due to the fact that future Rock idol Marc BolanFind albums by this artist (T. RexFind albums by this artist) was a member of the group. However, they are definitely worth being remembered in their own respect as the group produced some of the best, most advanced and revolutionary Psycheledic music on the UK scene, with complex melodies and great instrumental work. A must to all Psych-heads and a great listen to the "general public".
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FISSION TRIP ~ VOLUME ONE
VOICEPRINT 369 (Barcode: 604388321322) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005
1st album. What happens when you put together two ex-members of a legendary UK Prog group King Crimson (Ian Wallace and Mel Collins) with two ex-members of a legendary Texan Prog band Hands (Michael Clay and Ernie Myers)? You get one ass-kicking new band called Fission Trip, combining the best of two worlds - the KC dark and hypnotic atmosphere with Hands jazzy / fusion elements. Add to this guest artists such as Adrian Belew and you get one of the best albums on the Prog scene in years! Absolute must, don`t even think twice about it!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CRIMSON JAZZ TRIO ~ KING CRIMSON SONGBOOK VOL.1
VOICEPRINT 373 (Barcode: 604388321421) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
This is a perfect marriage of two of my favorite worlds: Jazz and Prog. The piano trio was always my jazz vehicle of choice, as it is ideal to provide both the improvisational and rhythmic jazz qualities. The music of the legendary Prog band King CrimsonFind albums by this artist was always right on top of my preferred music. The Crimson Jazz TrioFind albums by this artist combines both of these preferences perfectly. Jody NardoneFind albums by this artist (piano), Tim LandersFind albums by this artist (bass) and ex-KC Ian WallaceFind albums by this artist (drums) take the music of KC places, which were unimaginable so far – far into the land of swing (I wander if anybody could have imagined the music of KC in that setting before). The players shine and sweat from the onset to the very last note, full of imagination, brilliant technique and intelligent interplay. The sound is perfect as well, with clear definition of sound, which enables the entire range of the piano to sound balanced and the drum kit (from bass drum to hi-hat) to be perfectly audible. I can only join Robert FrippFind albums by this artist in his reaction to this masterpiece: “Can’t wait for Vol.2”!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FELLOWSHIP (FEATURING JON ANDERSON) ~ IN ELVEN LANDS
VOICEPRINT 378 ~ USA ~ Progressive Rock
This very interesting musical project took seven years to complete (1998-2005), but it was definitely worth waiting for. The Fellowship is an international group of musicians, who undertook a very challenging task of creating music based on the writings of J.R.R. Tolkien. Their approach is completely different from many other musicians, who created music inspired by Tolkien’s works (like Bo Hansson a.m.o.) – they conducted a thorough research of both Tolkien’s many writings of prose and poetry and also early European literature from the Middle Ages (13th & 14th century), all this to create the “authentic” music of the legendary “Middle Earth”. Of course the authenticity is a matter of opinion, as Tolkien himself did compose any music to accompany his writings, but as far as your humble servant here is concerned this sounds pretty “authentic” to me. The music is similar to early European Mediaeval music, with a touch of modernism, performed entirely on acoustic instruments (some ancient). The vocals (mostly by Yes front man Anderson) suit this music perfectly, and honestly to me this is better than are many other of his other projects. People who like early music fill have a feast with this album, but Yes fans and folkies should not stay far behind. I loved it!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNIE HASLAM ~ LIVE STUDIO CONCERT
VOICEPRINT 379 (Barcode: 604388322022) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1997 Released: 2006
Recorded in 1997 at the Prism TV Network studios in Philadelphia, Annie proves that she is still as good a singer as she ever was and her angelic voice remains intact. She gets a most sympathetic support from three musicians / friends (Rave Tesar – keyboards, David Biglin – keyboards and guitar and Joe Goldberger – drums) and the material includes some of her best known songs from her solo career and a few older Renaissance songs. The intimate setting of small studio audience provides Annie with an ideal environment to display her ability and get immediate feedback from the listeners. For the many Annie Haslam’s fans this is a Godsend. This CD includes the audio material on the DVD by the same name, with the addition of one bonus track.
| | | CD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | KATE WESTBROOK ~ THE NIJINSKA CHAMBER
VOICEPRINT 383 (Barcode: 604388322428) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006
Brilliant album by singer / lyricist Kate WestbrookFind albums by this artist with music by her husband Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, dedicated to the memory of Bronislava Nijinska (sister of Vaslav Nijinsky), the great pioneer of modern choreography. Of Polish descent, Nijinska started her career in Russia, but soon became internationally known and worked all over the world, being admired and revered as the pioneer of modern ballet. She died in Los Angeles in 1972. Westbrook´s lyrics tell the story of her life with taste and extraordinary sensitivity to Art, in all its revelations. The entire suite is performed by Westbrook either solo or accompanied by the extraordinary accordion player Karen Street, creating a sublime atmosphere of cabaret, French chanson and Kurt Weill´s "The Threepenny Opera". Not an easy piece of music, this is a masterpiece of European elegance and sophistication, which requires a refined listener to enjoy the music in full. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SNOWY WHITE / WHITE FLAMES ~ LITTLE WING
VOICEPRINT 396 (Barcode: 604388324729) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1997 Released: 2006
This is a most welcome reissue of a little known Snowy White album, which was released only in Europe. White returns to the Blues / Rock format, which of course is his forte. The trio format serves him perfectly and the rhythm session is superb. He wrote all the music except the title track (by Hendrix of course) and one track contributed the drummer. He re-visits a few older songs, but most of the material is new. There is plenty of space for some formidable guitar playing, as the tracks are relatively long (up to 9+ minutes), which should make his many fans quite happy. Definitely one of his better albums and far superior to his mainstream efforts. Warmly recommended.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SNOWY WHITE / WHITE FLAMES ~ KEEP OUT – WE ARE TOXIC
VOICEPRINT 397 (Barcode: 604388324828) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2006
This is a reissue of Snowy White’s little known album, which never gained the recognition it deserved. Recorded with his White Flames trio, a group White fronted for several years since the mid-1990’s, it is a superb example of Blues / Rock. White’s incredible guitar playing and his soulful voice comprise an ideal vehicle for this type of music and the band plays extremely well together. Add to this White’s great talent to compose those heartbreaking bluesy melodies and you have all it takes to make a most enjoyable album. This should appeal to a wide range of listeners from classic rock to blues, each and every one finding everything they like in this music. I’m glad to see this album available again.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SNOWY WHITE / WHITE FLAMES ~ NO FAITH REQUIRED
VOICEPRINT 398 (Barcode: 604388324927) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2006
This is a reissue of Snowy White’s first album with his excellent White Flames trio, with some help from other musician friends (including John “Rabbit” Bundwick on keyboards). A superb example of Blues / Rock, where White’s incredible guitar playing and his soulful voice comprise an ideal vehicle for this type of music. White wrote all the music on this album and his love for the blues form is evident. Guitar freaks will of course enjoy White’s long guitar solos, but the material is generally very strong and the entire album is a most pleasant listen. It is great to have this album back in circulation, especially in view of the very limited exposure it received when originally released. Warmly recommended.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | REFUGEE ~ LIVE IN CONCERT - NEWCASTLE CITY HALL 1974
VOICEPRINT 421 (Barcode: 604388327225) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2007
Considering the fact that the legendary band RefugeeFind albums by this artist, formed in 1973 by two ex-NiceFind albums by this artist members Lee JacksonFind albums by this artist and Brian DavisonFind albums by this artist with the Swiss keyboards wizard Patrick MorazFind albums by this artist, recorded only one studio album and disbanded after less than a year with Moraz leaving to join YesFind albums by this artist, every piece of their recorded legacy is an absolute revelation. Add to this the surprisingly high quality of the recording and you have an amazing piece of Prog history on your hands. The concert includes most of the material from the studio album, but the live versions are extensively expanded to include longer solos and variations. All three musicians perform beautifully with Moraz expressing his virtuosity to the limit (and beyond). A couple of non-album tracks are also present, these of course never previously heard. It is a great pity that these recordings were to be the last recorded documents of Jackson and Davison for over 30 years (until the Nice reunion). The word of Prog would have been even richer if they continued their careers. Moraz was of course to be a central figure on the Prog scene for many years and recorded extensively. This is an absolute essential piece of Prog history and I know very few Prog fans that would miss this item in their collection.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PINK FLOYD ~ THE PINK FLOYD AND SYD BARRETT STORY
VOICEPRINT 473 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
The legendary 2001 BBC documentary by John Edginton about early Pink Floyd days created a major stirr among PF fans as it was one of the best ever documetaries about the band with lots of previously unavailable footage and a great insight. Now in the DVD version, with still more never previously seen footage and enhanced quality. This is an absolute must to any PF / Barrett fan and a great document of the period. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, 74 minutes.
| | | DVD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SLAPP HAPPY ~ ÇA VA
VOICEPRINT 509 (Barcode: 604388336029) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1997 Released: 2009
In the early 1970s the trio Slapp HappyFind albums by this artist, which comprises of German vocalist Dagmar KrauseFind albums by this artist, British keyboardist Anthony MooreFind albums by this artist and US guitarist Peter BlegvadFind albums by this artist, was part of the early RIO movement, closely associated with the British group Henry CowFind albums by this artist. The two bands recorded a couple of brilliant albums together and Slapp Happy recorded two albums of their own (on their debut they were supported by the German band FaustFind albums by this artist), which are all considered absolute classic of Avant-Garde rock. When the band re-united to record this album, expectations were sky-high. The result took many of the band´s fans by surprise, as almost 30 years later Slapp Happy evolved into a completely different band, playing sophisticated, but melodic and hardly Avant-Garde material. Nevertheless the trio members lost none of their magical touch over the years as far as musicianship and composing skills are concerned. This great set of songs (and the album as a whole) is beautifully performed and crafted, with sophisticated lyrics and enchanting melodies. It is hard to determine if the passing time simply mellowed their once young and tormented souls, but they did grow up and aged well. Since one should allow artists to evolve and change, listening to this album one should "ignore" the band´s past to some degree, giving it a fair chance. With this approach I´m sure this great music can be accepted on its own terms and admired for its own merits. Excellent stuff!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SLAPP HAPPY ~ LIVE IN JAPAN – MAY, 2000
VOICEPRINT 523 (Barcode: 604388337422) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2009
In the early 1970s the trio Slapp HappyFind albums by this artist, which comprises of German vocalist Dagmar KrauseFind albums by this artist, British keyboardist Anthony MooreFind albums by this artist and US guitarist Peter BlegvadFind albums by this artist, was part of the early RIO movement, closely associated with the British group Henry CowFind albums by this artist. The two bands recorded a couple of brilliant albums together and Slapp Happy recorded two albums of their own (on their debut they were supported by the German band FaustFind albums by this artist), which are all considered absolute classic of Avant-Garde rock. When the band re-united in 1997 to record the splendid “Ça VaFind albums with this title” album, expectations were sky-high. The result took many of the band´s fans by surprise, as almost 30 years later Slapp Happy evolved into a completely different band, playing sophisticated, but melodic and hardly Avant-Garde material. Nevertheless the trio members lost none of their magical touch over the years as far as musicianship and composing skills are concerned. This live recording from the group´s Japanese tour finds them in great shape, performing several songs from the re-union album, as well as new versions of songs from their early 1970s recordings. This great set of songs is beautifully performed, with superb sound quality. It is hard to determine if the passing time simply mellowed their once young and tormented souls, but they did grow up and aged well. Since one should allow artists to evolve and change, listening to this album one should "ignore" the band´s past to some degree, giving it a fair chance. With this approach I´m sure this great music can be accepted on its own terms and admired for its own merits. Excellent stuff!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / AIR FORCE ~ LIVE IN THE STADTHALLE OFFENBACH GERMANY 1970
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 055 (Barcode: 604388738120) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker´s revolutionary Jazz-World Fusion ensemble Air ForceFind albums by this artist, which he founded following the demise of CreamFind albums by this artist. Air Force recorded only two albums during its short life-span, and any additional material by the band is invaluable. Baker assembled a formidable group of top British Jazz players of the period, augmented by African vocalists and drummers. The fact that this album features the talents of the legendary saxophonist / organist Graham BondFind albums by this artist is alone worth the price, but other great players are also present: organist / guitarist Ken CraddockFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Steve GregoryFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Bud BeadleFind albums by this artist, bassist Colin GibsonFind albums by this artist and others. The material is similar to the material present on the two Air Force albums, but several surprises are heard here for the first time, like the group´s version of Cream´s "Sunshine Of Your Love". Most of the pieces include extended improvised parts, with the saxophonist taking solos in tandem. Definitely worth investigating, provided you´re not squeamish about sound quality.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / SALT ~ LIVE IN MUNICH GERMANY 1972
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 056 (Barcode: 604388738229) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker´s ensemble SaltFind albums by this artist, which he founded following the demise of Air ForceFind albums by this artist. Salt never recorded any albums during its short life-span, and therefore this material by the band is invaluable. In Salt Baker assembled a group of British Jazz players, which played in the last Air Force lineup, augmented by African vocalists and drummers, taking an even more radical step towards World-Jazz Fusion. Some great players are present: saxophonist / flautist Steve GregoryFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Bud BeadleFind albums by this artist and others. But the great surprise of this recording is the participation of the legendary Jazz drummer Art BlakeyFind albums by this artist, who "battles" with Baker in a series of drum exchanges. Definitely worth investigating, especially in view of the fact that the sound quality on this album is quite excellent, as it originates from a TV recording made of the concert.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / AFRICAN FRIENDS ~ LIVE IN BERLIN GERMANY 1978
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 057 (Barcode: 604388738328) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker playing with his old friend Fela Anikulapo KutiFind albums by this artist and his ensemble Africa 70Find albums by this artist during the Berlin Jazzfest. In many respects this recording is a culmination of Baker´s long association with African music and his Jazz-World Fusion, before his return to more conventional Jazz music. Definitely worth investigating, especially in view of the fact that the sound quality on this album is quite excellent.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GINGER BAKER / ENERGY ~ LIVE IN MILAN ITALY 1980
VOICEPRINT / TMQ 058 (Barcode: 604388738427) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2010
This live recording is one of several releases based on the private archives of legendary drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, which finally see the light of day. Although not intended for a formal release and suffering from "bootleg" sound quality problems, the musical importance of this material is so significant, that it overshadows any technicalities and is essentially a Godsend. This album brings a live recording of Baker´s ensemble EnergyFind albums by this artist, which he founded in 1979, marking his return to Rock for a while. Energy recorded only one live album during its short life-span (it was released over a decade later), and any additional material by the band is invaluable. Baker assembled a formidable group featuring the talents of guitarists John MizarolliFind albums by this artist and Whitey DavisFind albums by this artist, keyboardist David LennoxFind albums by this artist and bassist Henry ThomasFind albums by this artist. The material is mostly Blues-Rock based, with Mizarolli playing some incredible solos. Definitely worth investigating, provided you´re not squeamish about sound quality.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
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