Record Reviews

BROTHERHOOD OF BREATH ~ BREMEN TO BRIDGWATER CUNEIFORM 182/183 (Barcode: 045775018225) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1971 - 1975 Released: 2004 This albums collects three concerts recorded by the legendary British Jazz ensemble Brotherhood Of BreathFind albums by this artist, led by pianist / composer Chris McGregorFind albums by this artist. The first recording captures the ensemble in its early days (1971) whereas the other two come from four years later (1975), towards the end of the life cycle of the first edition of the band, which came to its end with the death of trumpeter Mongezi FezaFind albums by this artist just a month after the last of these concerts was recorded. The collective lineup (which changed slightly over time) includes: Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, Marc CharigFind albums by this artist and Mongezi Feza – trumpet, Nick EvansFind albums by this artist, Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist and Radu MalfattiFind albums by this artist – trombone, Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist, Evan ParkerFind albums by this artist, Dudu PukwanaFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Bruce GrantFind albums by this artist and Gary WindoFind albums by this artist – saxophone, Chris McGregor – piano, Harry MillerFind albums by this artist – bass and Louis MoholoFind albums by this artist and Keith BaileyFind albums by this artist– drums. It is interesting to compare the development of the ensemble over this relatively short time period and see how well integrated musically and spiritually the ensemble really was. Both the individual and collective improvisations are all breathtaking and the entire concert is an orgy of sound and musical creativity. A must to all British Jazz enthusiasts and definitely worth investigating for all open-minded music lovers.

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