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Here is a new beautiful Israeli reissue:

 

 

3rd album by Israeli singer / songwriter / guitarist David Broza, one of the country’s most prominent and active musicians since the 1970s, which brought Broza unprecedented success and fame on the Israeli music scene. Broza, born in Haifa, grew up in Spain and England and returned to Israel for his military service. His Spanish cultural roots and his Flamenco acoustic guitar style are a most significant factor in his approach to music, but those surfaced for the first time on this magnificent album, since his earlier recordings were mostly Rock oriented. During the late 1970s and early 1980s Broza participated in many projects, including the splendid Sixteenth Lamb, cooperating closely with poet / lyricist Jonathan Geffen. The story behind this album is quite interesting: Following Broza’s experiences during the war in Lebanon, he suffered a severe nervous breakdown and dropped out from the music scene. His wife persuaded him to pick up his guitar and start working again, asking him to create Hebrew versions of the Spanish love songs, which he sang to her during their courtship. Broza enlisted the help of his friend Geffen, who transcribed (translated would be inaccurate, as Geffen had no knowledge of Spanish and created the lyrics based on Broza’s impressions of them) the song’s lyrics in to Hebrew. The resulting album turned out to be one of the most impressive music projects ever recorded in Israel, with exquisite arrangements, beautiful instrumentation and superb vocal delivery. The original songs were written by some of Spain’s best composers / lyricist, including Joan Manuel Serrat, Paco Ibanez, Frederico Garcia Lorca and others. Broza truly understands and loves this music and his talent comes to full fruition, presenting him as he truly is – an outstanding performer. One original song by Broza was also included on the album. Soon after its release, the album turned out to be a hysteric bestseller, which is quite surprising, as its high quality (both musical and lyrical) is definitely far from being populist in any sense. As a result of the album’s success Broza toured the country for about a year, performing the songs from the album as well as many of his earlier songs. The final concert of the tour, recorded live, is enclosed in this beautiful box set on two bonus CDs with almost three hours of music. This album is perfect in every respect and this spectacular, beautifully packaged box set is a proper homage to the achievements of Israeli music. Essential stuff!

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

A collection of recordings spanning five years by the obscure US (Colorado) band The Monocles and the later incarnation The Higher Elevation, which is a good example of Rock with Psychedelic influences. Playing self-penned material and using vocal harmony and great instrumental work, the band had a potential to achieve at least some fame, but similar to many other bands of the period never really made it. Although obscure, this material is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

A collection of recordings spanning eight years by the obscure US (Louisville) band The Keyes, which is a good example of Pop with Psychedelic influences. Playing self-penned material and using vocal harmony and great instrumental work as well as instrumental arrangements, the band had a potential to achieve at least some fame, but similar to many other bands of the period never really made it. Although obscure, this material is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by the obscure US (Louisville) band Leslie`s Motel, a superb example of Blues-Rock with strong Prog influences, with amazing guitar and organ with an overall similarity to the Allman Brothers. The band included Blues Project drummer Roy Blumenfeld. Playing excellent self-penned material with long instrumental passages, the band is truly excellent and deserves to be re-discovered. A must to Blues-Rock aficionados!

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

1^st album by excellent US (Baltimore) band Maypole, which played Hard Rock with heavy Psychedelic influences, not far stylistically from Iron Butterfly. Featuring strong vocals and excellent instrumental work this album is an excellent example of the US scene at the time. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Previously unreleased material (recently discovered) by obscure US (Louisville) band Oxfords, which is a great example of Psychedelic music with strong Prog influences. Fronted by an excellent female vocalist, the bands sounds often like It`s A Beautiful Day. Beautifully orchestrated, the self-penned material is breathtaking. The numerous tracks follow the band over a period of five years. Why they never made it big time is a total mystery. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

A collection of recordings spanning five years by the obscure US (Louisville) band The Rugbys, which is a good example of Rock with Psychedelic influences. Playing self-penned material and using vocal harmony and great instrumental work, the band had a potential to achieve at least some fame, but similar to many other bands of the period never really made it. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

This album by US (NY) troubadour Gandalf The Grey (or Chris Wilson) is an example of the hippie generation's fascination with the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. Self-penned and self-performed, this somewhat rough recording portrays an attempt to create another version of Middle Earth music. The bonus tracks provide a glimpse of his other albums (pre and post this one), which are more personal in nature. Although obscure, this album definitely worth investigating.

 

 

 

Only album by US (Colorado) band Dragonfly, which is a great example of Psychedelic Rock. Great self-penned material, powerful vocals and lots of fuzz guitar make it a classic of the genre. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by obscure US (Chicago) band The Bachs, which is a good example of garage Rock. Playing self-penned material and using great vocal harmony, the band had a potential to achieve at least some fame, but disbanded shortly after recording this album. Although obscure, this album definitely worth investigating.

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

Only album by US (Chicago) band Haymarket Square, which is a great example of Psychedelic Rock. The band, fronted by a female vocalist, performs some excellent self-penned material with extensive instrumental passages. Three of the six tracks are just under or over ten minutes long. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by US (San Antonio) band Children, which is a great example of Psychedelic Rock. The numerous bonus tracks tell the story of the band before and after the original LP was released. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

1^st album by obscure US (Houston) band Fever Tree, which is a superb example of Psychedelic Pop. Fronted by an excellent vocalist, the band played great self-penned material, beautifully orchestrated. They were the most popular Texan band in the late 1960s and this album clearly shows why. The band recorded three more albums before disbanding and then reunited in the 1970s, recording one live album, which was Prog oriented. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

Only album by US (NY) band Astral Projection, which is in fact a large body of musicians assembled especially for the recording of this beautiful Psychedelic concept album about spirituality. Richly orchestrated, with horn and string sections and a great team of vocalists this is a true gem of the period, sounding somewhat similar to the best work by the Association. Although melodic and seemingly simple, the music if full of superb musicality and the overall performance is outstanding. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Previously unreleased album by British singer / composer Big Boy Pete (or Peter Miller), who was one of the little known leaders of British Psychedelic scene. The album was about to be released on the Beatles owned Apple label, but somehow it never happened. The album is a concept project about the destruction of earth and is performed by the composer, using multi track layers. It remains a superb example of the Psychedelic period and its availability is long overdue. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by obscure US (Louisville) band Oxfords, which is a great example of Psychedelic music with strong Prog influences. Fronted by an excellent female vocalist, the bands sounds often like It`s A Beautiful Day. Beautifully orchestrated, the self-penned material is breathtaking. The numerous tracks follow the band over a period of five years. Why they never made it big time is a total mystery. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

Only album by US (Michigan) band Earthen Vessel, which played a heavy Psychedelic Rock similar to Jefferson Airplane, the similarity being emphasized by the fact that they were fronted by a female lead vocalist. Excellent self-penned material, strong vocals and great instrumental work, especially the guitar. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

2^nd album by superb US (Philadelphia) singer / songwriter Perry Leopold, who is considered to be one of the greatest unknown artists of American Folk-Rock involved with political protest and in many respects as important as most of his famous contemporaries. The music and lyrics are brilliant in every respect and the Psychedelic and Prog influences expand the Folk-Rock ground into previously uncharted territory. This album is a conceptual journey and therefore much more solidified than the brilliant debut, making it a masterpiece of the period. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by obscure German band Bokaj Retsiem, which is a great example of early European Psychedelic music. The biographical details of the band are lost in the tides of time, but happily the music remains. Great instrumental work with guitar and organ make this a true gem. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. . Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

Only album by US (Virginia) band Short Cross which played a highly energetic and sophisticated Rock with lead guitar and heavy organ, beautifully produced and executed. A couple of tracks also feature brass arrangements, somewhat similar to Blood, Sweat & Tears and Chicago and one has string arrangement. Excellent self-penned material, strong vocals and great instrumental work, especially the guitar. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

1^st album by superb US (Philadelphia) singer / songwriter Perry Leopold, who is considered to be one of the greatest unknown artists of American Folk-Rock involved with political protest and in many respects as important as most of his famous contemporaries. The music and lyrics are brilliant in every respect and the Psychedelic and Prog influences expand the Folk-Rock ground into previously uncharted territory. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by US (Florida) band Wizard, a trio playing self-penned material, which was mostly Hard Rock with heavy Psychedelic influences. Great lead guitar work and strong vocals make the album a typical example of the music created during this highly fruitful period. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. . Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

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Here is a series of albums on the great Gear Fab label:

 

 

Only album by US (Houston, Texas) band Christopher which incorporated Psychedelic elements with some heavy sounds, similar to Jefferson Airplane and Cream. Excellent self-penned material, strong vocals and great instrumental work, especially the guitar. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by superb US band Stack, which is considered to be one of the greatest unknown gems of American Rock made legendary by its rarity before being issued on CD. A mixture of Psychedelic and heavy Rock, the preferred weapons of choice of the era, this music lost nothing of its freshness and beauty over the time. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered. Wholeheartedly recommended!

 

 

 

Only album by US (Chicago) band Mountain Bus, originally called just Mountain but forced to change their name as a result of a law suite by the "other" much more famous and backed up by corporate lawyers band of the same name. Blues-based, they played some really cool music with guts and a lot of talent, sometimes sounding like Grateful Dead, but mostly sounding just like themselves. Although obscure, this album is as good as anything recorded at the time and deserves to be re-discovered.

 

 

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Here is a new Israeli Prog album by a legendary band:

 

 

The two founding members of the legendary Israeli Prog band Zingale: guitarist / singer / composer Ephraim Barak and bassist / singer / composer Udi Tamir, reunited 30 years after the original band disappeared from the local scene and revived the band, recording this new album. Zingale caused quite a stir in the late 1970s and their only album recorded at the time, called “Peace”, is considered a Prog masterpiece among the genre’s collectors all over the world to this very day. Barak and Tamir worked together for months to write the new material and later added drummer Barak Ben-Zour to complete the lineup, which recorded the music. The new album was initially available only as digital download, but demand from fans all over the world prompted the band to release the album in physical format. As to the music, it is obvious that the band faced an enormous challenge trying to follow and recreate the success of their legendary debut album after so many years. Therefore the band took the right decision to open a new page and create new music, essentially different from their earlier effort. The music here is completely up to date, using a wide array of instrumentation (overdubbed guitars and keyboards) in order to create a rich orchestral sound of Symphonic Prog, with the dual vocal parts (in English) overlaid on top of the complex instrumental layers. Although the spirit of Yes hovers somewhere in the background, this music is quite original, sometimes mystic, sometimes bombastic, as appropriate for Symphonic Prog at its best. The album is quite overwhelming at the first listening session and requires several attempts to absorb its content. Don’t give up, as eventually this will pay off big time. Fans of Symphonic Prog will eat this album alive and considering the reputation this band already has among Prog fans they don’t have to prove themselves. Definitely worth investigating!

 

 

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Here is a series of Israeli reissues, all of which are worth reexamining:

 

 

This wonderful box set combines four original albums by Israeli singer / songwriter Chava Alberstein, who is a prominent figure on the Israeli music scene since the late 1960s and continues to be creative 50 years later. Her numerous recordings are excellent examples of sensitivity, intelligence and professionalism of the highest standard. These albums were recorded between 1979 and 1984 and are entitled "If You Can See Me", "Voices", "At Home" and "Stardust" and are her 12^th, 15^th, 16^th and 17^th albums. This is some of the most important and best music recorded in Israel in the 1980s and these great mini LP replicas are a wonderful way to remember and reexamine this music.

 

 

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Here is a series of Israeli reissues, all of which are worth reexamining:

 

 

This wonderful box set combines four original albums by Israeli singer / composer Matti Caspi, who dominated the Israeli music scene in the 1970s and 1980s and created some of the most original and creative music ever made in Israel, both as performer and composer. These albums were recorded between 1981 and 1988 and are entitled "Twilight", "Matti Caspi", "Side 3 Side 4" and "One To One" and are his 5^th, 10^th, 13^th and 14^th albums. This is some of the most important and best music recorded in Israel in the 1980s and these great mini LP replicas are a wonderful way to remember and reexamine this music.

 

 

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Here is a series of Israeli reissues, all of which are worth reexamining:

 

 

This wonderful box set combines four original albums by Israeli singer Riki Gal, who dominated the Israeli music scene in the late 1980s and early 1990s, singing music written especially for her by great Israeli composers like Matti Caspi (who also produced and sings with her on the first two albums, which are masterpieces), Yehuda Poliker and others. These albums were recorded between 1987 and 1996 and are entitled "Riki Gal", "What Is Love", "Search Me" and "Love You More" and are her 1^st to 3^rd and 5^th albums. This is some of the most important and best music recorded in Israel in the 1980s and 1990s and these great mini LP replicas are a wonderful way to remember and reexamine this music.

 

 

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Here is a series of Israeli reissues, all of which are worth reexamining:

 

 

This wonderful box set combines four original albums by Israeli singer Nurit Galron, who dominated the Israeli music scene in the late 1970s and through the 1980s, dedicating most of her output to interpretations of songs written especially to words by great Israeli poets. These albums were recorded between 1982 and 1986 and are entitled "Sympathy", "I Saw Beauty", "A Gentle Touch" and "Heartfelt" and are her 4^th to 7^th albums. This is some of the most important and best music recorded in Israel in the 1980s and these great mini LP replicas are a wonderful way to remember and reexamine this music.

 

 

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Here is a series of Israeli reissues, all of which are worth reexamining:

 

 

3^rd album by Israeli singer Nurit Galron, who dominated the Israeli music scene in the late 1970s and through the 1980s, dedicating most of her output to interpretations of songs written especially to words by great Israeli poets. This album was the first and most important breakthrough in that genre and here Galron sings eleven sublime songs written by the best Israeli composers, like Yoni Rechter, Matti Caspi, Shalom Hanoch, Ilan Wirtzberg (with whom Galron cooperated extensively) and others, all composed especially for this album to the poems of Natan Zach, one of the most important contemporary Israeli poets. Accompanied by best Israeli players at the time, this album is a masterpiece in every respect and to this day one of the greatest albums recorded in Israel. Although non Hebrew speaking listeners can not appreciate the beauty and profoundness of the lyrics, still the exquisite melodies and Galron's crystal clear vocals and sensitive delivery should enchant every music lover beyond the Hebrew texts. Absolutely essential to every lover of Israeli music!

 

 

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Here are a couple of historic Jazz recordings, reissued recently to celebrate their 50^th Anniversary:

 

 

Of all American Jazz Masters, the figure of bassist / bandleader / composer Charles Mingus is surely the most enigmatic, misunderstood and misinterpreted up to this day. Very few people truly understand his revolutionary approach to music in general and Jazz in particular, his ability to free himself and his closely knit circle of musicians from generations of both musical and racial prejudice, both of which can be tragically blind and bitter. Mingus was a musical universe by himself – although associated with Jazz, his music encompassed many forms of music: Blues, Gospel, African Music, all genres of Jazz from Dixieland to Free and in later days even Rock and Fusion. In order to truly comprehend his music one must study and repeatedly listen to his enormous recorded legacy as well as read his words, bequeathed to us in his writings. This beautiful album takes as a step further towards the goal to discover or re-discover the man and his music, as it includes for the first time the complete Columbia recording sessions from 1959, with producer Teo Macero, which resulted in two albums: "Mingus Ah Um" and "Mingus Dynasty". Both albums are included with many outtakes and alternate tracks, all beautifully remastered and sounding superbly clear and vivid. Rather than repeat myself saying how essential and superb this music is, let me just say that some of the most memorable and everlasting music written by Mingus is present here. Essential you say? I agree!

 

 

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Here are a couple of historic Jazz recordings, reissued recently to celebrate their 50^th Anniversary:

 

 

The fact that this album was destined to become probably the most famous Jazz recording, at least for non-Jazz oriented listeners (as well as one of the genre's all time bestsellers), is one of world's mysteries. After all, in spite of the seemingly "easy and pleasant sounding" impression this music makes on most listeners, it was in fact quite difficult and devilishly clever music, completely revolutionary and anything but "normal" by any standard. Pianist / composer Dave Brubeck and his crew: saxophonist Paul Desmond, bassist Eugene Wright and drummer Joe Morello turned just about every Jazz rule upside down on this milestone recording, introducing odd / irregular time signatures, which were unthinkable up to that moment, classical chord structures, which previously belonged only in European Classical Music and multi-themed compositions, which were completely foreign to Be Bop clear and straightforward compositions. And yet, in spite all this "strangeness" the album was an instant hit; go figure? On the other hand however, Brubeck was far from being the only revolutionary figure on the American Jazz scene, with dozens of key musicians / composers breaking down barriers of previously impregnable limitations in Jazz, from the pioneers of Free Jazz on one hand to masters of Cool on the other. The greatest test of all, the test of time, applied to this album shown unequivocally that superb music lasts forever. This music is beyond time and any esthetic limitations, it's forever young and inspiring and perhaps today, more then ever, listening to this timeless classic can save some of us from the havoc of bullshit being offered as music these days. This beautiful edition adds to the original album some live recordings at Newport Jazz Festival, recorded between 1961 and 1964, where this quartet flies through the music gracefully. The remastered sound of the original album and the live recording is spectacular. As if this would not be enough, a DVD is added, which includes a great documentary about making of this album as well as some live footage of the quartet. What can I say? Look up all the synonyms of the word "essential" and apply to this classic, timeless masterpiece!

 

 

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Here are three new items by the great Japanese pianist Hiromi Uehara:

 

 

Japanese piano / keyboards virtuoso Hiromi Uehara is by now known worldwide as one of the most talented Jazz musicians of the new generation. Her ability to play classic modern Jazz as well as Jazz-Rock Fusion, both with incredible technical dexterity and artistic flair is completely unique and breathtaking. But as good as her studio albums are (and they are truly excellent), nothing presents Hiromi in a truer light than watching her perform live, and this DVD is the closest thing to the live experience many of her fans will ever get. This DVD was recorded around the time Hiromi was promoting her album "Time Control", playing with her quartet, which included guitarist David Fiuczynski, bassist Tony Grey and drummer Martin Valihora. There is honestly very little I need to add here, except the fact that this is probably some of the greatest music you will ever hear / watch being performed, so don't even think twice!

 

 

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Here are three new items by the great Japanese pianist Hiromi Uehara:

 

 

Japanese piano / keyboards virtuoso Hiromi Uehara is by now known worldwide as one of the most talented Jazz musicians of the new generation. Her ability to play classic modern Jazz as well as Jazz-Rock Fusion, both with incredible technical dexterity and artistic flair is completely unique and breathtaking. But as good as her studio albums are (and they are truly excellent), nothing presents Hiromi in a truer light than watching her perform live, and this DVD is the closest thing to the live experience many of her fans will ever get. This DVD was recorded around the time Hiromi was promoting her album "Spiral", playing with her first trio, which included bassist Tony Grey and drummer Martin Valihora. There is honestly very little I need to add here, except the fact that this is probably some of the greatest music you will ever hear / watch being performed, so don't even think twice!

 

 

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Here are three new items by the great Japanese pianist Hiromi Uehara:

 

 

What a delight it is to finally hear the veteran Master bassist / composer Stanley Clarke doing what he does best – play Jazz; even better when he does so in my favorite Jazz format – the piano trio; but wait, it gets even better: Clarke's companions on this exquisite album are no others that my favorite representative of the young generation of Jazz pianists – Japanese virtuoso Hiromi Uehara and his drummer is no other than an old cohort Lenny White. Proving me wrong, when I often say: "they don't play that kind of music any more", this trio just soars from start to finish, playing their heart out, and believe me they all have huge hearts. Apart from the virtuosity and panache, these players have the "feel" like only very few others, turning the piano trio format into an entire orchestra of sounds, rhythms and emotions. I'm especially happy for Stanley, as his solo recording career suffered from many far from brilliant releases and this is the album he deserved for such a long time. Let's all enjoy this momentous occasion and bask in the wonderful sounds this album is so full of. The music is a mixture of originals by Clarke, and Uehara with a few standards added for good measure. It goes without saying that every piano trio enthusiast simply must have this album, but any music lover will find here the super-rare commodity available these sad (for music) days – great music. Grab it!

 

 

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Here are several new additions on the fabulous Vocalion label, an endless source of musical joys:

 

 

British drummer Tony Kinsey was one of the pillars of the local Jazz scene in the crucial period of late 1950s and early 1960s when British Jazz was absorbing the influences of the American Jazz and transforming them slowly into a new language of European Jazz. Although still very much influenced by American Be Bop players, Kinsey and his quintet took the music a step further, replacing the raw energy of Be Bop with European sophistication and classic harmony, producing highly intelligent music which was also elegant and although seemingly straight-forward, quite complex at its core. These two albums, from 1963 and 1958 present two of Kinsey's quintets, both including trumpeter Les Condon, but the 1963 quintet includes two young players, which were destined to be crucial figure on the British Jazz scene in the decade that followed, saxophonist Peter King and brilliant pianist Gordon Beck. This is great music, richly deserving to be remembered, and this reissue is truly a great opportunity to take a glimpse at this interesting period of early European Jazz. Warmly recommended!

 

 

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Here are several new additions on the fabulous Vocalion label, an endless source of musical joys:

 

 

Superb British singer / songwriter Barbara Dickson has been part of the local Folk and Folk-Rock scene since the late 1960s, gaining respect and admiration from her colleagues and audiences alike. These two albums, recorded in the early 1970s present get vocal abilities and great sensitivity as a singer. Accompanied by a splendid team of Folk musicians, which include her long time partner in trade multi-instrumentalist Archie Fisher, she soars through a selection of traditional and contemporary Folk material with grace and exceptional feel, equaled only by the best Folk performers. Fans of British Folk and early Folk-Rock will find these little known albums a delightful listening experience. Warmly recommended!

 

 

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Here are several new additions on the fabulous Vocalion label, an endless source of musical joys:

 

 

Canadian singer / songwriter Bonnie Dobson was part of the Folk revival that swept Northern America and Europe in the late 1950s and early 1960s, before the music got electric and became Folk-Rock. She preformed and recorded several albums in the US during the 1960s and by the end of that decade she moved to UK, where this album was recorded and released on the prestigious Argo label. It is probably her best recording ever, presenting her in the full glory of her talent. Her crystal clear voice and perfect pitch knew very few parallels and were often compared to the voice of Joan Baez. Bonnie sung in English and French with perfect ease and her choice of material was always exceptional. Unfortunately this was one of her last recordings, as she opted to leave the music business altogether in view of the Folk music being changed and commercialized. This album was unavailable for decades and became one of Folk's most sought collector's items. Here it is available again in its full glory – a classic of the genre.

 

 

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Here are several new additions on the fabulous Vocalion label, an endless source of musical joys:

 

 

British singer Annie Ross has spent many years in the USA, where she came to fame as one of the most important and innovative Jazz vocalists and is mostly known for her part in the vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, which revolutionized the group vocal approach in Jazz. Upon her return to the UK, Ross continued to record, perform and even acted in the movies. This album is a document of her one-women show at the Hampstead Theatre, where she performed a vide range of Jazz, Bossa Nova and even Progressive Rock (yes! She sings a King Crimson song as well) material, accompanied by a wonderful band, which included keyboardist Dave MacRae (another Prog connection, as we was at the time a member of Matching Mole), guitarist Gordon Edwards, bassist Rick Laird (Mahavishnu Orchestra) and drummer Dave Montgomery. This was 1971 and anything was possible! Of course this recording is very different from what most Annie Ross fans would expect to hear from her, and therefore quite special in every way. I have no idea how many people are even aware of this rare album, but surely many will be interested to check it out!

 

 

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Here are several new additions on the fabulous Vocalion label, an endless source of musical joys:

 

 

1^st and only album by the British Jazz-Rock ensemble Magician, a short lived group of top British Jazz musicians assembled to record this album written and arranged by Stan Butcher, himself a veteran composer / arranger on the British scene for several decades before this recording was made. Led by the fabulous saxophonist / flautist Barbara Thompson, the group also included keyboardist Fiachra Trench, guitarist Ray Russell, bassist Mo Foster and drummer Barry Morgan as well as a brass section. The music is mostly laid back, beautifully crafted and arranged and typically British, which of course is to be expected. Thompson plays several superb saxophone and flute solos, and so do the other musicians, and the entire album although quite obscure, is definitely worth discovering. Lovers of European and particularly British Jazz will be delighted to see this gem available again!

 

 

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Here are several new additions on the fabulous Vocalion label, an endless source of musical joys:

 

 

1^st and 2^nd albums by the great British Jazz-Rock Fusin ensemble Turning Point, one of the most interesting and unique phenomena of the late 1970s, formed by great bassist Jeff Clyne and vocalist Pepi Lemer with saxophonist Dave Tidball, pianist Brian Miller and drummer Paul Robinson. The two albums represent the entire recorded output of the group, which disbanded following the recording of the second album as the musical scene at the time could no longer sustain ambitious music. The group's music is a wonderful, typical British version of Jazz-Rock Fusion, which is based on clever compositions and virtuosic performances. The band had all that and more, as Lemer's vocalese was quite unusual and the integration of the human voice as another instrument was rarely used, with the exception of Polish musicians Michal Urbaniak and Urszula Dudziak in their bands. Therefore I've always kept a worm spot for this band in my heart and the fact that this music was unavailable for so many years was a crying shame, now corrected by the wonderful Vocalion label. This is a must for any true lover of the British Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion followers, but Canterbury fans will also find this music fascinating. Most warmly recommended!

 

 

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Here are three new releases on the fantastic tiny French label Soleil Zeuhl:

 

 

1^st album by legendary French Zeuhl band Shub Niggurath, originally only available on cassette and never previously released on CD. This reissue closes a great gap in the history of Zeuhl recordings, as this magnificent piece of music is every bit as good as the band's second album "Les Morts Vont Vite", which although issued on CD, has been out of print for ages. The Magma influenced sextet took the Zeuhl influences further than any other ensemble into the dark planes of contemporary music, even beyond Universe Zero. The band was a sextet comprised of guitarist Frank William Fromy, pianist Jean-Luc Herve, trombonist Veronique Verdier, bassist Alain Ballaud, drummer Franck Coulaud and singer Ann Stewart. The music is quite impossible to describe, which leaves only the one sensible thing to do – just listen. It is simply enchanting, hypnotic, broody and dark, with heavy bass sound emphasized by the use of the bass trombone, always surprising and altogether magnificent. An absolute must to any Zeuhl fan and worthy listening by any open-minded serious music lover. Essential listening experience!

 

 

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Here are three new releases on the fantastic tiny French label Soleil Zeuhl:

 

 

1^st album by new French Zeuhl band Neom, heavily influenced by Magma, but with a unique voice and approach. The band consists of Carole Duchene Sauvage on electric piano, Yannick Duchene Sauvage on vocals, guitar and drums, who also composed all the music, and William Pawelzik on bass. The music is a suite in five parts, each lasting between 12 and 15 minutes (only one being relatively short), very Jazzy and full of extended improvisations over a hypnotic repetitious background, typical of Zeuhl music. The instrumental abilities of the players are beyond reproach and the lead guitar parts are truly magnificent. The vocal chant is used mostly as part of the overall sound rather than fronting the music. This is a most impressive debut effort, which will delight all Zeuhl fans. Canterbury fans will also find this equally exciting, as in many parts this music is an extension of that subgenre as well. Definitely worth investigating and hopefully only a first step in a long career.

 

 

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Here are three new releases on the fantastic tiny French label Soleil Zeuhl:

 

 

This album celebrates 40 years of activity by French composer / musician / bandleader Christian Vander and his legendary band Magma, one of the most influential, innovative and groundbreaking phenomenon of contemporary European music. Vander spearheaded the creation of the Zeuhl subgenre of Progressive Rock, mixing elements of Jazz, Free Improvisation, Rock and contemporary Classical Music, creating a unique musical platform for creativity. His group Magma served as a vehicle for his explorations, creating a mini-universe / subculture, which created a completely new language, both verbally and musically. Over the years, dozens of musicians passed through the ranks of Magma, creating their own ensembles later on, after absorbing the leader's influence, with the Magma family tree growing up to enormous degree. Countless other bands all over the world, heavily inspired by the music of Vander, expanded the Zeuhl universe to encompass the entire globe. This album is an ambitious project, which brings together 25 ensembles from many countries, each performing a different piece of music written by Vander, all together almost 3 hours of Zeuhl music at its best. The ensembles range from intimate ones to big bands and their interpretation of the music varies in approach and proximity to the source, but altogether this is a musical feast of rare proportions. In many respects this album is "better" than the original, in the sense that the variety and dynamics here is much wider than on the Magma albums, which sometimes tend to be overbearing and tedious with lengthy repetition, none of which can be found here. Released on the tiny, but exquisite French Soleil Zeuhl label, which since many years serves as a faithful home base for many Zeuhl bands, this project is a great example of dedication, hard work and ingenuity, especially in these difficult times for music, which deserves all the respect and admiration. Essential listening!

 

 

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Here are a couple of albums by Italian band Runaway Totem – the Italian answer to Magma:

 

 

5^th album by Italian group Runaway Totem, which is strongly influenced by the music and philosophy of the French group Magma and belongs to the small but very dedicated circle of Zeuhl followers. The album presents the third part of the trilogy of albums called "Cosmic Cycles", which started with the previous releases "Andromeda" and "Tep Zepi". The lineup of the group, which seems to be in a constant shift, is now reduced to a duo, fronted by a formidable and impressive singer / composer Roberto Gottardi, who also plays guitars, keyboards and bass and drummer Germano Morghen. The album is a musical suite rather than a collection of separate tunes, dominated by dark atmosphere and hypnotic rhythms and repetitions. The sound is heavy and dense, with extended instrumental passages and dramatic tempo shifts. Zeuhl / RIO fans will find this music mesmerizing, although any Prog fan will find here many fascinating elements worth listening to. This is a very impressive piece of work, which deserves more exposure that it achieved so far. Recommended!

 

 

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Here are a couple of albums by Italian band Runaway Totem – the Italian answer to Magma:

 

 

4^th album by Italian group Runaway Totem, which is strongly influenced by the music and philosophy of the French group Magma and belongs to the small but very dedicated circle of Zeuhl followers. The album presents the second part of the trilogy of albums called "Cosmic Cycles", which started with the previous release "Andromeda" and continues with the next album "Pleroma". The lineup of the group, which seems to be in a constant shift, is a quartet, fronted by a formidable and impressive singer / guitarist Roberto Gottardi and includes also keyboardist Roberto Veronese, bassist Dario Gelmetti and drummer Germano Morghen. The album is a musical suite rather than a collection of separate tunes, dominated by dark atmosphere and hypnotic rhythms and repetitions. The sound is heavy and dense, with extended instrumental passages and dramatic tempo shifts. Zeuhl / RIO fans will find this music mesmerizing, although any Prog fan will find here many fascinating elements worth listening to. This is a very impressive piece of work, which deserves more exposure that it achieved so far. Recommended!

 

 

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Here is a series of Procol Harum albums which surely belong here:

 

 

In 1991 the great British group Procol Harum reunited for the first time, with founding members Gary Brooker, Matthew Fisher and Robin Trower, to record the album "The Prodigal Stranger". Following the release of the album the group embarked on a world tour and this live recording documents the music performed by them at the time. Robin Trower opted not to participate in the tour and was replaced by guitarist Geoff Whitehorn, and the rest of the crew included bassist Dave Bronze and drummer Mark Brzezicki. The band performs a mixture of their classic material and pieces from the new album and considering the fact that this album was recorded at the very last concert of this tour they were in top shape, playing their hearts out. In contrast to many reunions by Rock bands, where the passing years show bluntly that the protagonists are way beyond their performing powers, this band kicks ass as powerfully as they did in the 1970s and anybody, who was their fan then will enjoy this brilliant music now. Definitely worth having!

 

 

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Here is a series of Procol Harum albums which surely belong here:

 

 

9^th album by great British group Procol Harum featuring the same lineup as its predecessor "Exotic Birds And Fruit". Although the group was almost at the end of its long career at the time and this album was to be one before the last they recorded ("Something Magic"), it certainly doesn't show any signs of weariness or lack of inspiration. Full of great songs, including the outstanding "Pandora's Box", which is a great reminder of their debut single "A Whiter Shade Of Pale", the album is perhaps the rockiest one they ever recorded but still well within the unique parameters that characterize their output. For the first time the album's arrangements include a subtle support of a brass section, which works beautifully. With Gary Brooker's incredible voice strong as ever and his composing abilities paired with Keith Reid's (who for the first time gets to pictured with the other band members on the front cover) lyrics being at their peak, this album is a classic and an essential piece of the Golden Decade puzzle. A must in any serious Prog collection!

 

 

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Here is a series of Procol Harum albums which surely belong here:

 

 

8^th album by great British group Procol Harum and their return to strict group format after two orchestral albums. Led by singer / pianist Gary Brooker, with guitarist Mick Grabham, organist Chris Copping, bassist Alan Cartwright and drummer B.J. Wilson, the group was still at the top of their musical power and this is probably their strongest album of their late period. Brooker's gift for composing momentous melodies, combined with excellent lyrics written by Keith Reid, who was a de facto member of the group, made them a unique phenomenon, which can be appreciated even better from the perspective of the decades that passed since their inception. The moody, sometimes gothic atmosphere of medieval spookiness and bluesy undertones beautifully are simply stunning. This is a classic example of music, which loses nothing of its qualities over time and an essential piece of the Golden Decade puzzle. A must in any serious Prog collection!

 

 

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Here is a series of Procol Harum albums which surely belong here:

 

 

6^th album by great British group Procol Harum and their first live recording, which was a very ambitious undertaking and consists of a series of Procol Harum earlier compositions arranged especially for a symphony orchestra playing with a rock group. Although not a first attempt of such kind, this was one of the first and by far one of the best such efforts ever attempted. The band's music suits the Classical idiom better then any music written by their contemporaries to start with. The band was expanded to a quintet following the addition of bassists Alan Cartwright. Led by singer / pianist Gary Brooker, with guitarist Dave Ball, organist Chris Copping and drummer B.J. Wilson, the group was at the top of their musical power. Brooker's gift for composing momentous melodies, combined with excellent lyrics written by Keith Reid, who was a de facto member of the group, made them a unique phenomenon, which can be appreciated even better from the perspective of the decades that passed since their inception. The moody, sometimes gothic atmosphere of medieval spookiness and bluesy undertones beautifully are simply stunning. This is a classic example of music, which loses nothing of its qualities over time and an essential piece of the Golden Decade puzzle. A must in any serious Prog collection!

 

 

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Here is a series of Procol Harum albums which surely belong here:

 

 

5^th album by great British group Procol Harum, reduced to a quartet following the departure of organist Matthew Fisher. Led by singer / pianist Gary Brooker, with guitarist Robin Trower, bassist / organist Chris Copping and drummer B.J. Wilson, the group was still very much at the top of their musical power. Brooker's gift for composing momentous melodies, combined with excellent lyrics written by Keith Reid, who was a de facto fifth member of the group, made them a unique phenomenon, which can be appreciated even better from the perspective of the decades that passed since their inception. The moody, sometimes gothic atmosphere of medieval spookiness and bluesy undertones beautifully expressed by Trower's virtuosic guitar licks, are simply stunning. This is a classic example of music, which loses nothing of its qualities over time and an essential piece of the Golden Decade puzzle. A must in any serious Prog collection!

 

 

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