Record Reviews
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  | NEIL ARDLEY ~ A SYMPHONY OF AMARANTHS
DUSK FIRE 107 (Barcode: 5065001032189) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2012
This is the criminally overdue reissue of the second album by British Jazz composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, which also was the second part of his great trilogy, which started with "The Greek VariationsFind albums with this title" and was followed later by "Kaleidoscope Of RainbowsFind albums with this title". It is one of the great gems of the revolutionary British Jazz, which developed in the Golden Decade (1965-1975) and changed to face of music as we know it.
Influenced by Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist and Gil EvansFind albums by this artist, Ardley was the creator of the innovative Big Band / Orchestral sound, which was one of the magic ingredients of the new British Jazz at the time. Although based on the compositional ideas of Ellington and Evans, Ardley managed to push them way forward into an amalgam with contemporary European Classical music, early atmospheric / ambient music and other elements, creating unique orchestral soundscapes. As the musical director, resident arranger and conductor of the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist), Ardley had at his disposal the crème de la crème of the British Jazz players, and quite naturally he used them to record his own projects as well.
The list of the protagonists behind this recording is of truly epic proportions and includes such luminaries as trumpeters Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, trombonist Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Don RendellFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and Dave GellyFind albums by this artist (who also wrote the informative liner notes for this reissue), pianists Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist and Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The only one of its kind Ivor CutlerFind albums by this artist recites a famous nonsense poem and the divine Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist sings Ardley´s music accompanying three classic poems, his first adventure with vocal music.
Overall the album presents a wondrous splendor of musical ideas, marvelously executed by the musicians involved, creating together one of the most beautiful examples of creativity and intelligence, which were the chief ingredients of the music created by Ardley time and again. As an album, this is one of the very few examples of musical perfection, which set the standards for all the others. It is in every respect as perfect today as it was at the time of its recording.
A curious point about this album is the fact that this was the first ever recording to be funded by a grant from the Art Council, which supported a plentitude of great musical projects in the years to come. The album was produced by the legendary Denis Preston, who was in charge of recording a myriad of brilliant early British Jazz albums and without whom the this great music might have never been captured for posterity. The reissue is brilliantly remastered and sounds absolutely spectacular.
This is an unconditional, absolute essential piece of music!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEIL ARDLEY / NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ ON THE RADIO: BBC SESSIONS 1971
DUSK FIRE 115 (Barcode: 5065001032516) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is a wonderful archival album from the seemingly bottomless vault of the BBC recordings, which presents two sessions led by British composer / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. The first session (six tracks) presents the full glory of the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist) led and conducted by Ardley and the second session (one track) presents a suite-like composition performed by a small Jazz ensemble, which also includes a string section and electronics. The lineup of the New Jazz Orchestra includes the crème de la crème of the British Jazz players at the time: trumpeters Nigel CarterFind albums by this artist, Bud ParkesFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonists Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, Robin GardnerFind albums by this artist and Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, tuba player Dick HartFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Don RendellFind albums by this artist, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Dave GellyFind albums by this artist and Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and percussionist / vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist. The small ensemble includes several NJO members and also features bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and the man in charge of the electronic sounds Keith WinterFind albums by this artist.
For listeners familiar with the NJO recordings the music presented here will not be unanticipated, as it follows the pattern presented on their studio recordings, which is based on intricate and lavish orchestral arrangements and excellent solos by the orchestra members. The live sound and the raw power of the twenty piece orchestra are of course irresistible and illustrate the supremacy of orchestral music over small ensembles as far as the scale of possibilities is concerned. The orchestra performs two compositions by the lamented pianist / composer Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist, who was already deceased when this music was recorded. Another pleasant surprise is the inclusion of a composition by the legendary Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who played in the earlier lineup of the orchestra. The presentation of the tunes by the no less legendary Humphrey LytteltonFind albums by this artist is the proverbial cherry on the top.
The suite-like piece marks the beginning for Ardley´s interest in electronic music, which started when he met Keith Winter a year before this music was recorded. His future recording will feature synthesizers of course but this early, both technologically and conceptually, meeting between electronic and acoustic sounds is truly fascinating and innovative, especially since it also features a string section.
Overall this album is an invaluable historical document of the time and of the British Jazz history, and well deserved thanks go to Peter MuirFind albums by this artist, the man behind the Dusk FireFind albums on this label / Market SquareFind albums on this label labels and to Dave Gelly for the informative liner notes and his first hand experiences. This is an absolute must to all British Jazz connoisseurs, and in fact to all Jazz lovers around the world, especially the young musicians, who should be aware of how much can be learned from music made in the past. Not to be missed!
| | Updated: 23/05/2018Posted: 31/05/2017 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ LIVE AT THE BBC AND OTHER STORIES
REPERTOIRE 1279 (Barcode: 4009910127926) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1962 - 1972 Released: 2015
This is a Box Set of archival material by British saxophonist / organist / composer / bandleader Graham BondFind albums by this artist, one of the most idiosyncratic and pioneering figures of the British Jazz, Jazz-Rock and Prog scenes. The material collected here consists mostly of recordings made by the BBC, but includes also some ultra-rare home recordings, demos and other ditties, covering the period between 1962 and 1972, which more or less presents Bond´s entire career before his tragic death in 1974, aged just 36 at the time.
Regardless of what various music history sources have to say, Bond is singlehandedly responsible for the creation of the Jazz-Rock idiom around 1963, when he formed the Graham Bond QuartetFind albums by this artist, which featured guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist (which were all destined to become superstars in the years to follow). The quartet amalgamated Bond´s experience with the Jazz world, gained while he was a member of the Don RendellFind albums by this artist Quintet, with the exploding Rhythm And Blues phenomenon, creating the earliest manifestation of Jazz-Rock known to man. One session of the Don Rendell Quintet with Bond as its member is included here and it also features as a guest musician saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who would become another of Bond´s close associates when he formed the seminal Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist in 1965, which was later joined by the celebrated drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. Following the Organization´s breakup Bond formed the Graham Bond InitiationFind albums by this artist and later on collaborated with the poet / lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, who wrote also the booklet that accompanies this Box Set. Their recordings together are the last (chronologically) tracks in this collection.
The music included in this collection is of varied quality and sometimes of pretty Lo-Fi sound quality, even after it was carefully restored and remastered, but it is of enormous historic importance, as it documents not only Bond´s career but in fact the entire British Jazz scene, which was experiencing at that time a tremendous upheaval and explosion of new talents and ideological modifications of the very fabric of Jazz, which was parting from the American dominance and creating a new variety of the idiom, which would crystallize as European Jazz, spawning Jazz-Rock in the process.
Bond´s performances on the Hammond Organ are all superbly executed and it makes perfect sense that they influenced an entire generation of British musicians, who invented Progressive Rock next, such a Jon LordFind albums by this artist of Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist, Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist of ColosseumFind albums by this artist, Brian AugerFind albums by this artist and of course many others. In general the music portrays the atmosphere of the British scene at the time, where genres and classifications were pretty arbitrary and where the Jazz / Rock / Prog idioms were influencing and embracing each other with ease and natural affinity.
Kudos to the German RepertoireFind albums on this label label, which is one of the most important sources of reissues, for the meticulous work done on this set and for bringing this material back to life. This set continues the work done by Repertoire on the previous Graham Bond Box Set called "Wade In The Water – Classics, Origins and OdditiesFind albums with this title", which covers the recordings by Graham Bond Organization. Together these two Box Sets pay tribute to one of the greatest heroes of the British Jazz / Jazz-Rock pioneering figures, who is sadly often forgotten and is rarely given the credit he deserves for his revolutionary creativity.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 01/04/2016 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ SOLID BOND
COLLECTORS` CHOICE 2000 (Barcode: 617742200027) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1963 - 1966 Released: 2009
If there ever was a quintessential Jazz-Rock album, which practically not only is the first recorded example of the genre, but also defines it unequivocally, this is it! The music herein was initially released as a double LP for the first time in 1970, but it consists of two sessions recorded earlier by the legendary British saxophonist / organist / vocalist Graham BondFind albums by this artist, the earlier one in 1963 and the later in 1966. These two sessions, diametrically different and yet completely unified in spirit, present a miniscule window into the time-space continuum, which enables us to take a peek at the most feverish period in British music, where invention and pioneering breakthrough were happening on a daily basis. The first of these two sessions is not only the first recording of the emerging Jazz-Rock genre but also the recording debut of one of its future heroes, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. The Graham Bond Quartet, captured live in London´s legendary Klooks Kleek club consisted of Bond (on sax), McLaughlin, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist on acoustic bass and Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist on drums. They played a unique brand of modern jazz, which combined the elements of Free Jazz, Swing and Rock (or Rhythm And Blues), basically inventing the Jazz-Rock Fusion on the fly. Although the music is predominantly Jazzy, Baker´s rhythmic approach, Bond´s phrasing and McLaughlin´s scales all included clear Rock innuendos. During the period separating the first session and the second one, Bond formed the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, which recorded a couple of LPs in 1965 ("The Sound Of 65Find albums with this title" and "There`s A Bond Between UsFind albums with this title") and practically fell apart after Bruce and Baker left to form CreamFind albums by this artist. The second recording features another interim quartet with Bond (this time on organ), saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Bruce (who double-gigged between Cream and some Jazz activities) and the young and upcoming drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The music recorded during this session is already full-fledged Fusion, with Jazz being tightly incorporated with Blues, Rhythm And Blues and Rock, similar to the patterns perfected during the Organization days. Some of the material appears on the Organization recordings, other was new, but the overall quality is of course everlasting. Shortly after this recording Heckstall-Smith and Hiseman left Bond to join John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and later formed the mighty ColosseumFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this album, although relatively little known by Jazz-Rock enthusiasts, is a holy grail of the genre and an essential piece of any serious music collection. Unavailable for years, the CD recent reissue is a major contribution to preservation of this superb musical achievement. Essential stuff!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND / PETE BROWN ~ TWO HEADS ARE BETTER THAN ONE
ESOTERIC 2042 (Barcode: 5013929714229) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
It was inevitable that the two British icons saxophonist / keyboardist / composer Graham BondFind albums by this artist and vocalist / trumpeter / lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist would eventually find themselves in one band. After all they rubbed shoulders for over a decade before this album was recorded, both being members of a circle of musicians with many mutual friends like bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist (who co-wrote most of the CreamFind albums by this artist material with Brown, as well as all the material on his early solo albums and who was a member of the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist (also members of the Organization) and several others. When they both found themselves out of job, getting together was the natural solution. The only album this band recorded is one of the wackiest – mind you in a most wonderful way – albums created at the time. Completely beyond any stylistic limitations Bond and Brown just seem to have a great time, playing and singing together accompanied by some superb instrumentalists. Expect the unexpected here, with Brown´s witty lyrics and Bond´s excellent keyboards work both on organ and acoustic piano. Sadly this album turned out to be Bond´s last studio recording before he perished in a terrible accident / alleged suicide two years later. With his death the British Jazz-Rock scene lost its original forefather. Definitely worth checking out and a must to all Bond and Brown fans.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BREAD, LOVE AND DREAMS ~ AMARYLLIS
SUNBEAM 5027 (Barcode: 5051125502714) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
3rd and last album by Scottish duo Bread, Love And DreamsFind albums by this artist, which included singer David McNivenFind albums by this artist, who also wrote most of the material, and female singer Angie RewFind albums by this artist. The group started originally as a trio with another female singer Carolyn DavisFind albums by this artist and they recorded their debut album a year earlier. After Carolyn left to pursue a solo career, the duo engaged in an extensive recording project, which produced enough material for a double album. Unfortunately the record label (Decca) refused to issue a double album (originally intended to be called “Mother Earth”) and as a result the first of the two was released a few month earlier under the title The Strange Tale Of Captain Shannon And The Hunchback From GighaFind albums with this title, taken from the title of the epic song included on that album, and the second a few month later, again taking the title from the epic three-part suite present on this album. The duo was lucky to have some great musicians taking part in the recording sessions, namely Pentangle’s rhythm section of Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist on bass and Terry CoxFind albums by this artist on drums, as well as saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist from ColosseumFind albums by this artist. Some of the songs were also beautifully arranged and orchestrated. The resulting music is a prime example of British Folk-Rock with some Psychedelic influences as well. Although the original albums sold poorly at the time they were released, in time they achieved a legendary status among British Folk-Rock enthusiast and became rare collectors’ items. Having them back in circulation is a long-awaited dream come true and no Acid Folk fan can call his collection complete without these two albums.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BREAD, LOVE AND DREAMS ~ THE STRANGE TALE OF CAPTAIN SHANNON AND THE HUNCHBACK FROM GIGHA
SUNBEAM 5047 (Barcode: 5051125504718) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
2nd album by Scottish duo Bread, Love And DreamsFind albums by this artist, which included singer David McNivenFind albums by this artist, who also wrote most of the material, and female singer Angie RewFind albums by this artist. The group started originally as a trio with another female singer Carolyn DavisFind albums by this artist and they recorded their debut album a year earlier. After Carolyn left to pursue a solo career, the duo engaged in an extensive recording project, which produced enough material for a double album. Unfortunately the record label (DeccaFind albums on this label) refused to issue a double album (originally intended to be called “Mother Earth”) and as a result the first of the two was released under this title, taken from the title of the epic song included on the album, and the second a few month later as AmaryllisFind albums with this title. The duo was lucky to have some great musicians taking part in the recording sessions, namely PentangleFind albums by this artist’s rhythm section of Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist on bass and Terry CoxFind albums by this artist on drums, as well as saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist from ColosseumFind albums by this artist. Some of the songs were also beautifully arranged and orchestrated. The resulting music is a prime example of British Folk-Rock with some Psychedelic influences as well. Although the original albums sold poorly at the time they were released, in time they achieved a legendary status among British Folk-Rock enthusiast and became rare collectors’ items. Having them back in circulation is a long-awaited dream come true and no Acid Folk fan can call his collection complete without these two albums.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETE BROWN / BATTERED ORNAMENTS ~ A MEAL YOU CAN SHAKE HANDS WITH IN THE DARK / MANTLE-PIECE
BGO 489 (Barcode: 5017261204899) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2000
1st and 2nd albums by UK group Battered OrnamentsFind albums by this artist, led (on the first album only) by poet / musician Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Brown was one of the most colorful and interesting figures on the UK scene in the 1960s, a part of a larger group of friends, which included Jazz, Rock and Avant-Garde musicians like Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and even John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. He took active part in the Jazz & Poetry experimental movement leading a group called First Real Poetry BandFind albums by this artist, which was combining elements of Blues, Avant-Garde Rock, Jazz and Jazz-Rock. Of course Brown is mostly remembered for his co-writing of many songs with Jack Bruce, which were part of the CreamFind albums by this artist repertoire, as well as on Jack´s early solo albums. Brown continued his musical adventured by forming the band Battered Ornaments with George KhanFind albums by this artist on saxophone, Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist on guitar, Charlie HartFind albums by this artist on organ and a great Jazzy rhythm section. The band recorded just one, absolutely brilliant album (the first of the two presented here), with Brown singing the lead vocals, something he tried to avoid but did anyway, and Heckstall-Smith playing on two tracks. The music is absolutely stunning, a great example of the early UK Jazz-Rock, which is completely different of course from the later Jazz-Rock Fusion that most US bands pursued. After recording the first album the personality clash and rivalry between Brown and Spedding resulted in Brown leaving the band (and forming immediately a new one called PibloktoFind albums by this artist). The band, now led by Spedding, recorded a second album, using material written by Spedding and Brown earlier. Although not as brilliant as the first, it is still a great example of early Jazz-Rock and includes basically the same lineup as the first album less Brown and Hart. Together these two albums are a must to any fan of the early British Jazz-Rock scene and include some of the most ingenious music ever made. A must!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETE BROWN / PIBLOKTO ~ THINGS MAY COME AND THINGS MAY GO... / THOUSANDS ON A RAFT
BGO 522 (Barcode: 5017261205223) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2001
1st and 2nd albums by UK group PibloktoFind albums by this artist, led by poet / musician Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Brown was one of the most colorful and interesting figures on the UK scene in the 1960s, a part of a larger group of friends, which included Jazz, Rock and Avant-Garde musicians like Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and even John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. He took active part in the Jazz & Poetry experimental movement leading a group called First Real Poetry BandFind albums by this artist, which was combining elements of Blues, Avant-Garde Rock, Jazz and Jazz-Rock. Of course Brown is mostly remembered for his co-writing of many songs with Jack Bruce, which were part of the CreamFind albums by this artist repertoire, as well as on Jack´s early solo albums. Brown continued his musical adventured by forming the band Battered OrnamentsFind albums by this artist, and later on when the band kicked him out, he formed Piblokto, recording two albums with that group. The band included guitarist Jim MullenFind albums by this artist, organist Dave ThompsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Roger BunnFind albums by this artist (later replaced by Steve GloverFind albums by this artist) and drummer Laurie AllenFind albums by this artist (later replaced by Rob TaitFind albums by this artist). The group was popular mostly in Europe (France especially), where they toured extensively. The music is absolutely superb, a mixture of Jazz, Rock, and Psychedelic influences, being a great example of the early UK Jazz-Rock, which is completely different of course from the later Jazz-Rock Fusion that most US bands pursued. Together these two albums are a must to any fan of the early British Jazz-Rock scene and include some of the most ingenious music ever made. A must!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ THE 50TH BIRTHDAY CONCERTS
MIG 90610 (Barcode: 885513906106) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2014
This Box Set is a document of the two concerts organized in order to celebrate the 50th Birthday of British vocalist / bassist / composer Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest figures of Rock / Blues-Rock / Prog-Rock and Jazz-Rock. These concerts took place on November 2nd and 3rd of 1993 and were recorded and videoed for posterity. The Box Sets includes two DVDs which present the music played during the two nights (totaling in almost four hours of unadulterated Jack Bruce genius) and in addition it also includes a third DVD with an extensive collection of interviews with Bruce and his guests recorded at the time and a CD with another hour of music, which is not included on the two concert DVDs. In short about six hours of Jack Bruce, his music and his unique personality, which made his one of the most respected and admired musicians of the 20th Century.
Bruce invited a formidable stable of musicians / friends to come and play with him during these two days, a list of which reads like the who´s who of British Rock and includes: guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and Gary MooreFind albums by this artist, drummers Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist and Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist, pianist / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, organist Bernie WorrellFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and Art ThemenFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonist John MumfordFind albums by this artist and vocalists Gary "Mudbone" CooperFind albums by this artist and Maggie ReillyFind albums by this artist. Poet / lyricist / vocalist and a lifetime friend of Bruce, the incredible Pete BrownFind albums by this artist also makes an appearance. With such lineup the music is simply exploding with talent and incredible performances.
The music includes a selection of mostly Bruce originals, spanning from the glorious CreamFind albums by this artist days and through all the solo albums Bruce recorded after Cream disbanded. His brilliant compositions prove again that they are completely resistant to the passing of time, and present a fabulous legacy that will stay with us forever.
My personal favorite part of the concert is the last hour on the second DVD, which presents just the trio of Baker, Bruce and Moore, playing a series of Cream favorites, which is simply breathtaking and presents an "alternative" Cream vision, which is in every respect as exciting as the original group with Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist. The absence of Clapton is in fact a great disappointment and might have been a momentous occasion, but it was corrected twelve years later during the Cream reunion concerts in 2005.
Overall this is a package no lover of Classic Rock will consider to miss, especially in view of the fact that some of the people captured here are no longer with us (Heckstall-Smith, Moore and of course Bruce himself). Since nobody makes music like this any more, this stuff is even more important today for the sake of the new generation, in case it´s not completely lost yet.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 03/05/2016 | 3DVD+CD 4 Digipak Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ BREAD & CIRCUSES
CASTLE 1345 (Barcode: 5050749413451) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1996 - 1997 Released: 2006
Following the 1994 reunion, which proved to be extremely successful, both artistically and commercially, the pioneering British Jazz-Rock Fusion band ColosseumFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest band ever in the genre´s history, decided to keep the reunited band together for further concerts and even recorded a couple of new albums, of which this is the first one. In retrospect, with the tragic death of saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist in 2004, this album was destined to be one before the last recording by the original band, which of course included also vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The album includes eleven original compositions by the band members, performed brilliantly, as always. None of the players seem to have lost any of their passion for music or the ability to perform, which is evident, every step of the way. It seems an appropriate way to say goodbye to the numerous fans around the world and although seals the era, emphasizes what a glorious era it was. A must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE (2CD EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2545 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the seminal live album by the legendary British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Blues-Rock Fusion group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, founded in 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who shared earlier common ground as members of John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist. The final incarnation of the band´s first era, of which this was the last recording, included also vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The original release of this album was a 2LP set and this 2CD edition more than doubles the original album´s playing time, including additional material that was recorded at the same concerts from which the original album was put together.
This reissue is the answer to the question: "How do you take the best possible album and make it better?" The new remaster and the additional material simply turn this iconic album into what is probably the most important recording made at the historic crossroads that produced, after a period of about half a decade of crystallization and construction, two of the tremendous British contributions to music in the 1960s: Blues-Rock Fusion and Jazz-Rock Fusion (the other being Progressive Rock, which also has a few moments on this album).
The complexity and the ingenuity of the music on this album are mind-bugling and in fact it was never matched by any other album of that period. The musicians struggled with the difficulties of playing this music live and compensated for any technical imperfections by the fire and enthusiasm of the performance. In fact the group´s reunion after twenty three years produced other live versions of the same material ("Live Cologne 1994Find albums with this title"), which are technically more perfect than the recordings herein, a fact that can be easily explained by the musical experience acquired during that period of time.
In retrospect this album simply refuses to fade away and still shines like a beacon of musical vitality, sophistication and stylistic crosspollination, which puts most of contemporary music in a miserable and pitiable light. Brainwashed and undereducated listeners of today can´t tell great music from organic waste…
I wonder if we can expect a future 4CD version of this album? After all this has already been reissued three times, so why not again? Still absolutely essential, perhaps even more so than before!
| | Updated: 17/01/2017Posted: 17/01/2017 | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE `71
REPERTOIRE 1396 (Barcode: 4009910139622) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2020
This is an archival album by the seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock band ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded live in February and March of 1971 during their UK tour, which yielded their legendary “LiveFind albums with this title” album, which to this day is considered as one of the most important live concert recordings of all time, which sadly proved to be the last album by the early version of the band. Founded in 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist the final lineup included also the charismatic vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, superb keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, one of the best British Blues guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist.
The music includes mostly original material, which appeared over time on the studio albums, all of which was tested and polished during the band’s many live appearances, reaching a level of perfection, which combined with the highly developed improvisation abilities by the band members (Hiseman, Heckstall-Smith and Greenslade had a Jazz background), produced live performances of unparalleled quality.
The first CD of this 2CD release offers a complete show recorded on February 12, 1971, which as far as I know was previously unissued and is alone worth the price of the album. The show is more relaxed and open to improvisation then the material recorded in March and partly included on the a.m. live album.
The second CD however, is more problematic, since as far as I can see it is identical to the second CD included on the EsotericFind albums on this label reissue “Live (2CD Expanded Edition)Find albums with this title” from 2016, with a confusing, slightly different running order. Why on earth would RepertoireFind albums on this label do this is beyond me.
But as mentioned earlier, every instance of Colosseum material, especially as excellently recorded as the music included here, is worth its weight in gold. It is truly amazing that this music, almost exactly fifty years young, sounds still so exciting today. Absolutely essential stuff!
| | Updated: 18/02/2021Posted: 18/02/2021 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE AT MONTREUX 1969
REPERTOIRE 1460 (Barcode: 4009910146026) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2023
This is an archival release presenting a live recording by the seminal British group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded in Montreux on April 25, 1969 during the European Broadcasting Union international awards festival Rose d’Or. Colosseum, founded in spring of 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, were joined by bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and initially by guitarist Jim RocheFind albums by this artist, who was soon replaced by James LitherlandFind albums by this artist. The quintet recorded the band´s debut album "Those Who Are About To Die Salute YouFind albums with this title" in the late 1968 / early 1969, which was released in March of 1969. By the time they played this concert they were in the midst of recording their second album "Valentine SuiteFind albums with this title", which was released in November 1969. The live set presents four compositions, including the three-part "Valentine Suite", expanded according to the circumstance, including material from the debut album and the yet unreleased second album. The fifth track was recorded a couple month later, during their appearance at the Monteux Jazz Festival on June 22, 1969. All the performances were also captured on video by the Swiss TV, and are present here on the DVD included in the package.
The music is of course absolutely glorious and epitomizes the early British Jazz-Rock Fusion and to some extent also Progressive Rock. All five musicians are superb instrumentalists and the album showcases plenty of hair-raising solos, as expected form Colosseum, which was undoubtedly one of the most spectacular live acts at the time.
Despite the over five decades that passed since this music was recorded, it is still absolutely fresh and infinitely more interesting that anything else being recorded these days. Pure genius at work!
This album is one of several live archival albums by Colosseum recently released by the German Repertoire Records label, some of which already circulated as bootlegs earlier on, but these carefully remastered and beautifully packaged albums are simply irresistible.
| | Updated: 03/08/2023Posted: 03/08/2023 | CD+DVD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE AT MONTREUX INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL
REPERTOIRE 1389 (Barcode: 4009910138922) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2020
This is an archival release presenting a live recording by the seminal British group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded in Montreux on June 21, 1969 during the annual International Jazz Festival, one of the most prestigious gigs in Europe at the time. Colosseum, founded in spring of 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, were joined by bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and initially by guitarist Jim RocheFind albums by this artist, who was soon replaced by James LitherlandFind albums by this artist. The quintet recorded the band´s debut album "Those Who Are About To Die Salute YouFind albums with this title" in the late 1968 / early 1969, which was released in March of 1969. By the time they played this concert they have already recorded the second album "Valentine SuiteFind albums with this title", which was released in November 1969. The live set presents six compositions, expanded according to the circumstance, including material from the debut album and the yes unreleased second album.
The music is of course absolutely glorious and epitomizes the early British Jazz-Rock Fusion and to some extent also Progressive Rock. All five musicians are superb instrumentalists and the album showcases plenty of hair-raising solos, as expected form Colosseum, which was undoubtedly one of the most spectacular live acts at the time.
Despite the five decades that passed since this music was recorded, it is still absolutely fresh and infinitely more interesting that anything else being recorded these days. Pure genius at work!
This album is one of the five live archival albums by Colosseum recently released by the German RepertoireFind albums on this label Records label, some of which already circulated as bootlegs earlier on, but these carefully remastered and beautifully packaged albums are simply irresistible.
| | Updated: 07/10/2020Posted: 07/10/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE AT ROCKPALAST 2003
REPERTOIRE 1449 (Barcode: 4009910144923) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2022
This is an archival live 2CD + DVD album by the iconic British Jazz-Rock Fusion group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded / filmed by German WDR TV on September 27, 2003 at the Viersen Jazz Festival, which was part of their 2003 tour in Germany. The material was intended for the legendary “Rockpalast” TV show. The reunited (in 1994) band just recorded their new (at the time) album “Tomorrow`s BluesFind albums with this title” and were in absolute top form. The ailing saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who would sadly depart just a few months later, was replaced by the fabulous Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, the wife and life companion of the band’s leader, drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist, and the rest of the superb team included keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and vocalist extraordinaire Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist. The album includes several tracks from the new album and a mixture of their classic repertoire, going back right to their debut album. The DVD offers all the audio tracks present on the two CDs and in additional twenty minutes long interview with Hiseman.
The sound and vision quality of the material is absolutely superb and now even enhanced by a careful restoring process, with a stunning result, probably the best among all the many live Colosseum recordings.
The music is of course absolutely Godly from start to finish and Colosseum followers can easily compare this material with their legendary “LiveFind albums with this title” album from 1971, to see that although over thirty years passed by, the band lost absolutely nothing of their fire and power, and managed to polish their show to absolute perfection. The level of the improvisation during the extensive keyboards, guitar, saxophone and drums solos is genial and Farlowe’s vocals are still unbeatable.
With Dick, Barbara and Jon now gone, listening to this album is a deep, almost spiritual experience of longing for friendships lost, and time mercilessly passing for all of us. Great to see the legacy of the greatest band ever still living and new archival material still being released.
Overall, this is an absolutely essential piece of the recorded legacy by this iconic band, which combined Blues, Rock, Jazz and everything in-between better than almost anybody out there, for generations to come. Glittering musical gold!
| | Updated: 26/04/2023Posted: 26/04/2023 | 2CD+DVD 3 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE AT RUISROCK FESTIVAL, TURKU, FINLAND 1970
REPERTOIRE 1391 (Barcode: 4009910139127) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2020
This is an archival album by the seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded live in August of 1970 during their Scandinavian tour and presents an early recording of the second lineup of the group. Founded in 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist the final lineup included also the charismatic vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, superb keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, one of the best British Blues guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist.
The music includes original material and one piece each by Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Graham BondFind albums by this artist, which appeared over time on the group’s studio albums, all of which was tested and polished during the band’s many live appearances, reaching a level of perfection, which combined with the highly developed improvisation abilities by the band members (Hiseman, Heckstall-Smith and Greenslade had a Jazz background), produced live performances of unparalleled quality.
This specific concert bursts with energy and enthusiasm, and Hiseman’s lengthy drums solo is an absolute classic. Clempson falls in within the Colosseum modus operandi perfectly from day one and his soloing is sublime as always. With four of the five tracks clicking well over ten minutes in duration, this is a true orgy of improvisation, albeit perfectly well organized. The sound quality of this recording if somewhat iffy, but the remastered material is definitely listenable, compared with the bootleg versions of this album that have been around for ages.
As usual, every instance of Colosseum material, especially as excellently performed as the music included here, is worth its weight in gold. It is truly amazing that this music, almost exactly fifty years young, sounds still so exciting today. Absolutely brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 19/06/2021Posted: 19/06/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE AT THE BOSTON TEA PARTY
REPERTOIRE 1390 (Barcode: 4009910139028) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2020
This is an archival release presenting a live recording by the seminal British group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded in Boston on August 13, 1969 during the group´s first US tour. Colosseum, founded in spring of 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who were joined by bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and initially by guitarist Jim RocheFind albums by this artist, who was soon replaced by James LitherlandFind albums by this artist. The quintet recorded the band´s debut album "Those Who Are About To Die Salute YouFind albums with this title" in the late 1968 / early 1969, which was released in March of 1969. By the time they embarked on the US tour they have already recorded the second album "Valentine SuiteFind albums with this title", which was released in November 1969. Therefore it is hardly surprising that they played exclusively (well almost, see below) material from the second, already recorded but not yet released album. The live set presents only three compositions, expanded according to the circumstance, including the entire three-part suite that gave the album its title.
For Colosseum specialists, the version of the suite performed here live is different from the version eventually released on the UK version of the album, with the third part of the suite being "Beware Of The Ides Of Mach" (released on the debut album) to by replaced by "The Grass Is Always Greener" on the studio album.
The music is of course absolutely glorious and epitomizes the early British Jazz-Rock Fusion and to some extent also Progressive Rock. All five musicians are superb instrumentalists and the album showcases plenty of hair-raising solos, as expected form Colosseum, which was undoubtedly one of the most spectacular live acts at the time.
Despite the five decades that passed since this music was recorded, it is still absolutely fresh and infinitely more interesting that anything else being recorded these days. Pure genius at work!
This album is one of the five live archival albums by Colosseum recently released by the German RepertoireFind albums on this label Records label, some of which already circulated as bootlegs earlier on, but these carefully remastered and beautifully packaged albums are simply irresistible.
| | Updated: 07/10/2020Posted: 09/09/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE AT THE PIPER CLUB, ROME, ITALY 1971
REPERTOIRE 1394 (Barcode: 4009910139424) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2020
This is an archival album by the seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock band ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded live in Summer of 1971 and presenting one of the last known recordings of the final lineup of the band, which disbanded just a few months later in October of 1991. Founded in 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist the final lineup included also the charismatic vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, superb keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, one of the best British Blues guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist.
The music includes two original pieces and one piece each by Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, which appeared over time on the group’s studio albums, all of which was tested and polished during the band’s many live appearances, reaching a level of perfection, which combined with the highly developed improvisation abilities by the band members (Hiseman, Heckstall-Smith and Greenslade had a Jazz background), produced live performances of unparalleled quality. The two original tunes (one co-written by Clempson and Hiseman and the other by Hiseman) get over-extended versions on this album, timing well over twenty minutes each, which present the incredible instrumental abilities by the band members, including Hiseman’s unique drumming technique.
The sound quality of this recording if truly iffy, and even the remastered version is not easily listenable, albeit somewhat better than the bootleg versions of this album that have been around for ages. Obviously the source material for this material is simply sub-standard.
And yet, every instance of Colosseum material, especially as excellently performed as the music included here, is worth its weight in gold. It is truly amazing that this music, almost exactly fifty years young, sounds still so exciting today. Absolutely brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 08/07/2021Posted: 08/07/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE IN GERMANY
REPERTOIRE 1404 (Barcode: 4009910140321) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1971 Released: 2021
This is an archival album, which collects live recordings by the seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group ColosseumFind albums by this artist. The 2CD / DVD album covers recordings of live concerts in Germany and Austria, captured between 1969 and 1971. Colosseum was formed in 1968 from the ashes of the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist (both members of GBO). The first lineup included also keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist James LitherlandFind albums by this artist and bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist. Litherland was replaced by Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and Reeves was replaced briefly by Louis CennamoFind albums by this artist and later by Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist was added as lead vocalist, turning Colosseum into a sextet. Hiseman’s wife, saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The sound quality is fabulous, and the remastering, packaging and enclosed highly informative booklet are top notch.
Colosseum were one of the most imaginative and intelligent early Fusion / Prog bands ever and managed to create a highly unique sound and musical aesthetics. A perfectly balanced amalgam of Jazz, Rock and Blues, which they created, remains largely unmatched to this very day. Their success can be mostly credited to the perfect blend of their musical personalities and immense collection of diverse talents, as well as the leadership of Hiseman, who was one of the most important British musicians of his generation. I was lucky to know Jon and watching him and the band perform was always a revelation.
CD1 of the album covers the material recorded in 1969 and 1970 by the German TV show “Beat-Club” (the first four tracks) and the 1969 concert in Vienna (the next four tracks). CD2 covers the 1971 concert in Frankfurt (four long tracks). The “Beat Club” material is also included in video version on the enclosed DVD.
This album offers an incredible wealth of music, hair-raising instrumental performances and a sublime glimpse at the period when music was at its absolute creative peak. There are but a few groups that managed to achieve the same level of intensity and inventiveness ever since.
For Colosseum fans this album is absolutely essential of course, but the interest goes way beyond just that. British Jazz and Fusion enthusiasts will be also thrilled; as should any music loving person on this planet be as well. This music is beyond recommendation, a true Holy Grail!
| | Updated: 25/11/2021Posted: 25/11/2021 | 2CD+DVD 3 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE05
REPERTOIRE 1382 (Barcode: 4009910138229) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2024
This is a reissue of a 2CD live album by the seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded in 2005. Colosseum, founded in spring of 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, went through several personnel changes before disbanding in 1971, after recording several iconic albums. They reunited in 1994 and continued performing and recording albums with a lineup, which included the two founding members and keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist. Following the death of Heckstall-Smith in 2004, Hiseman’s wife saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist joined the band, and this new lineup recorded this live album.
This album was initially released privately on Temple MusicFind albums on this label in 2007 and then on RuffFind albums on this label Records in Germany in 2010, both editions now long gone from the market. This RepertoireFind albums on this label Records reissue, newly packaged and with a booklet designed by Ana GraceyFind albums by this artist (Barbara’s and Jon’s daughter), celebrates Hiseman’s 80th Birthday Anniversary.
The music is a wonderful example of the band’s live act, which includes music spanning their entire career. Although some of that music appears on other live albums, due to the highly improvised nature of the band’s performances, each and every version of these tunes is completely unique. It also reflects the phenomenal agility of Barbara, who joined the group only a few months earlier (although she did play some gigs with the band before formally joining), and blended perfectly into the act, obviously adding her personal fabric to the tunes.
Each and every live album by Colosseum depicts the incredible talents of all the band members, with the spotlight on their abilities as improvisers, since the band’s material was always heavily influenced by Jazz and the live performances were ideal platforms to “go wild” and play lengthy instrumental solos and vocal extravaganzas.
Overall, this is as brilliant as every other Colosseum album, studio and live alike, and if anybody missed the original release of this album, this is an opportunity to repent and correct mistake. Absolutely not to be missed!
| | Updated: 26/08/2024Posted: 26/08/2024 | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ TIME ON OUR SIDE
RUF 1209 (Barcode: 710347120926) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2010 - 2013 Released: 2014
This is the final album by seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group ColosseumFind albums by this artist. The group was founded by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and for many years included also keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist. Following the recording of their last album together “Tomorrow`s BluesFind albums with this title” Heckstall-Smith died in 2004 and saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Hiseman’s wife, joined the group for its final stretch, which ended with the death of Hiseman in 2018. The last lineup with Thompson recorded this final album over a period of three years, and it also features vocalist Ana GraceyFind albums by this artist (daughter of Thompson and Hiseman) on one track, which she also wrote. The album presents nine studio tracks, all originals by the members of the band except the a.m. track by Gracey, several featuring lyrics by the legendary Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. The CD edition includes one live bonus track, written by Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Pete Brown.
The music is everything one might expect from a Colosseum album; a great amalgam of Jazz / Rock / Blues, which always represented their musical aspirations. Decades of experience are evident in the brilliant instrumental performances, which are as strong as ever, as are the vocals by Farlowe, Clempson and Clarke. The music might be a bit more relaxed and less experimental than on the early alums, but is still excellent in all respects.
Thompson’s saxophone parts are quite different from those by Heckstall-Smith, which somewhat changed the overall sound of the group, but did not make a radical impact, which would change the general concept. This is definitely a playful work by these veterans, which still sounds great and offers a proper last fanfare to one of the best groups of all time.
Colosseum fans won’t miss this album of course, but it should appeal to all Classic Rock fans around the globe, as nobody makes music like this anymore. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 06/06/2021Posted: 06/06/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ TOMORROW`S BLUES
CASTLE 1399 (Barcode: 5050749413994) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2006
Following the 1994 reunion, which proved to be extremely successful, both artistically and commercially, the pioneering British Jazz-Rock Fusion band ColosseumFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest band ever in the genre´s history, decided to keep the reunited band together for further concerts and even recorded a couple of new albums, of which this is the second one. In retrospect, with the tragic death of saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist in 2004, this album was destined to be the very last recording by the original band, which of course included also vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The album includes nine original compositions by the band members and one standard, performed brilliantly, as always. None of the players seem to have lost any of their passion for music or the ability to perform, which is evident, every step of the way. It seems an appropriate way to say goodbye to the numerous fans around the world and although seals the era, emphasizes what a glorious era it was. A must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ TRANSMISSIONS: LIVE AT THE BBC
REPERTOIRE 1346 (Barcode: 4009910134627) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1971 Released: 2020
This is a sensational archival Box Set, which collects the BBC recordings by the first incarnation of the seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group ColosseumFind albums by this artist. The 6CD Box Set covers the BBC recordings captured between 1969 and 1971. Colosseum was formed in 1968 from the ashes of the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist (both members of GBO). The first lineup included also keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist James LitherlandFind albums by this artist and bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist. Litherland was replaced by Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and Reeves was replaced briefly by Louis CennamoFind albums by this artist and later by Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist was added as lead vocalist, turning Colosseum into a sextet. Hiseman’s wife, saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist and the entire New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (NJOFind albums by this artist) guest on selected tracks. The sound quality is fabulous, as usual with BBC recordings, and the remastering, packaging and enclosed highly informative booklet are top notch
Colosseum were one of the most imaginative and intelligent early Fusion / Prog bands ever and managed to create a highly unique sound and musical aesthetics. A perfectly balanced amalgam of Jazz, Rock and Blues, which they created, remains largely unmatched to this very day. Their success can be mostly credited to the perfect blend of their musical personalities and immense collection of diverse talents, as well as the leadership of Hiseman, who was one of the most important British musicians of his generation. I was lucky to know Jon and watching him and the band perform was always a revelation.
This Box Set covers the material included on the band’s first three (or four, depending on how detailed one wants to dig) studio albums and complements perfectly their only live album, which is undoubtedly one of the best live albums ever recorded. In many respects the music included here shows more of the Jazzy aspects of Colosseum than the live album, which is more Blues-Rock oriented. These versions of the tunes are often dramatically different from the versions appearing on the studio album and feature extensive soloing and improvisations.
These six CDs offer an incredible wealth of music, hair-raising instrumental performances and a sublime glimpse at the period when music was at its absolute creative peak. There are but a few groups that managed to achieve the same level of intensity and inventiveness ever since.
For Colosseum fans this Box Set is absolutely essential of course, but the interest goes way beyond just that. British Jazz and Fusion enthusiasts will be also thrilled; as should any music loving person on this planet be as well. This music is beyond recommendation, a true Holy Grail!
| | Updated: 27/05/2021Posted: 26/05/2021 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ UPON TOMORROW
REPERTOIRE 1466 (Barcode: 4009910146620) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1971 Released: 2023
This is a 2CD archival album by the legendary British Progressive Rock / Jazz-Rock Fusion group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, presented as the “long-lost 4th studio album”, but the album’s content is quite a complex matter, as explained below. The lineup of the classic Colosseum lineup includes vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist, except on the first two tracks on CD1, which feature guitarist James LitherlandFind albums by this artist and bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist.
CD1 contains four tracks recorded during two separate filmed concerts, the first a TV appearance (tracks 1-2), captured on March 26, 1969, and the second a part of a series of films about British Rock bands (tracks 3-4), captured on May 14, 1970, both of which have nothing to do with the a.m. “lost” album. The CD includes only audio material, which I find it a bit bizarre, as RepertoireFind albums on this label Records could have probably get hold of a license to the video material as well, unless they plan to release that separately?
CD2 contains eight tracks, the first five of which were supposedly intended as the “lost” album and the remaining are demos of three of those tracks. The material was recorded during the hiatus following the release of the largely successful “LiveFind albums with this title” album, which eventually led to the band falling apart by the end of 1971. The material was recorded in spring / summer of 1971, first at the legendary Lansdowne Studios (see the three demos), and later mixed it at the Advision Studios (see track 5) and finally at Jon’s home studio (see tracks1-4). Colosseum performed some of this material during their concerts in late 1971 and it also appeared on Colosseum related albums, like the debut solo album by Heckstall-Smith or the debut album by TempestFind albums by this artist.
Colosseum were just too good to last, and such superb collection of talents was bound to implode / explode, especially when the British Prog and Fusion was a constant swirl of bands being created and falling apart, often without the opportunity to leave recorded legacy behind. Lucky for us, Colosseum fans, there is a true abundance of music in Hiseman’s extensive archives, and of course we enjoyed the sensational reunion later on.
Overall, as on every other archival Colosseum album, there is plenty of sublime material herein to give us a reason to rejoice, especially since much of it are unreleased studio recordings. For Colosseum fans, this is heaven on earth of course, so let’s simply enjoy it!
| | Updated: 20/02/2024Posted: 20/02/2024 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DICK HECKSTALL-SMITH ~ BLUES AND BEYOND
BLUE STORM 004 (Barcode: 5050232500422) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001
This is the last album by British saxophonist / composer Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, recorded before his passing in 2004. The album, produced by Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, includes an incredible list of British musicians, who played with him during his career: guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, Peter GreenFind albums by this artist and Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, drummers Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist and Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and vocalists Rab McCulloughFind albums by this artist, Paul JonesFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist. John MayallFind albums by this artist plays piano and several other musicians also take part in the proceedings. The album presents twelve tracks, most of which are originals by Heckstall-Smith and some are Blues standards.
As the list of names and the album’s title suggest, the album is dedicated to Blues and Blues-Rock material, which of course was always a part of Heckstall-Smith’s background in addition to his Jazz-Rock Fusion, Prog and Jazz activities.
The music is absolutely delightful, as expected, and the guests / friends invited to participate do not disappoint. The album is full of great tunes, brilliant guitar soli and evocative vocals, all within the Blues idiom, spiced with Heckstall-Smith’s idiosyncratic saxophone playing. Of course the album brings fond memories of his activities with Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and ColosseumFind albums by this artist, which were icons of the British scene for many years.
Overall, this is a brilliant and sadly little known album by one of the true heroes of the British Blues, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz scenes. It certainly deserves to be heard and if anybody can find a copy of it, it is wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 03/02/2022Posted: 03/02/2022 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALEXIS KORNER’S BLUES INCORPORATED ~ BBC SESSIONS VOL.1 1962-1965
RHYTHM AND BLUES 097 (Barcode: 5060331753742) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1962 - 1965 Released: 2024
This is an archival album, which presents recordings by Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist’s Blues IncorporatedFind albums by this artist, made in early 1960s by guitarist / pianist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Alexis Korner, the Godfather of British Blues. These recordings were made with a plethora of British Blues, Rock and Jazz musicians, reading like a who´s who of the British Blues / Blues-Rock / Rock And Roll / Jazz and early Jazz-Rock Fusion, comprising of dozens of names, which passed through Korner´s legendary group over time.
As bizarre as it might appear, Korner was a white Jewish boy, born in Paris, who arrived in the UK in 1940, escaping the Nazi persecution, and who in time almost singlehandedly reanimated the interest in the Blues on the local British scene, leading to a phenomenon called the British Blues Revival, which started by the mid-1950s and literally exploded by the mid-1960s, when it became the British Blues Boom. In retrospect this musical idiom proved to be one of the most fundamental cornerstones of British Rock, later spreading also to the European continent. Korner´s charismatic personality and influence were a decisive factor leading to the formation of such musical icons as Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, FreeFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, CreamFind albums by this artist, ColosseumFind albums by this artist and countless others. Korner continued his career until his untimely death in 1984.
The material collects recordings from six different sessions, a total of twenty-four tracks. The collective personnel taking part in these recordings includes, alongside Korner, vocalists Cyril DaviesFind albums by this artist, Long John BaldryFind albums by this artist and Herbie GoinsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist, Mick PyneFind albums by this artist, Nigel StangerFind albums by this artist, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and Bernie GeorgeFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Dave StevensFind albums by this artist, Johnny ParkerFind albums by this artist and Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, bassists Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist, drummers Charlie WattsFind albums by this artist, Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, Ronnie DunnFind albums by this artist and Terry CoxFind albums by this artist. It does not get any better than this, does it?
Overall, this album is full of magnificent music, presented in chronological order by date of recording, which is an absolute treasure chest and a historic document of the outmost importance. Although the sound quality of some of the tracks, especially the early ones, is a bit shaky, the importance of the music sets everything aside. This is an absolutely essential release to all British Blues connoisseurs!
| | Updated: 02/10/2024Posted: 01/10/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BARE WIRES (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 842178 (Barcode: 602498421789) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2007
8th album by John MayallFind albums by this artist and his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, and his most ambitious project by far. The Bluesbreakers’ lineup was extended to a septet and included Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist on guitar, Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist on bass, Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist on drums and a brass section which included Chris MercerFind albums by this artist on tenor and baritone saxes, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist on tenor and soprano saxes and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist on cornet and violin. The entire first side of the LP was dedicated to an extended blues suite (first of its kind ever), with strong jazz influences, hence this album is often quoted as one of the earliest examples of the Jazz-Rock genre. The quality of the songwriting and the performances on this album are truly astounding and to this day it remains as a classic icon of the era. However soon after the album was recorded Mayall decided to disband the Bluesbreakers and opt for an intimate quartet for his new project, retaining only the services of Mick Taylor. Three of the band members (Reeves, Hiseman and Heckstall-Smith) decided to form the legendary ColosseumFind albums by this artist, joining forces with keyboards player Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and guitarist James LitherlandFind albums by this artist and the rest is history. So now you know that Colosseum was actually a Bluesbreakers offspring. As for the album, it’s an absolute must for every blues fan and for most lovers of the early Jazz-Rock and Prog genres. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ LIVE IN FRANCE 1967-73
REPERTOIRE 1459 (Barcode: 4009910145920) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion
Recorded: 1967 - 1973 Released: 2023
This is an archival album by the greatest British Blues Artists of all time, the iconic ninety years old Blues legend John MayallFind albums by this artist. The material originates from the French TV archives and presents twenty-two tracks captured during the five most productive years of Mayall’s early career, both on two CDs and a DVD. The list of participants reads like the Who’s Who of the Blues and Jazz-Blues Fusion history of the Golden Decade: guitarists Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, Jon MarkFind albums by this artist, Harvey MandelFind albums by this artist and Freddie RobinsonFind albums by this artist, bassists Steve ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Alex DmochowskiFind albums by this artist, Larry TaylorFind albums by this artist and Victor GaskinFind albums by this artist, drummers Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist, Colin AllenFind albums by this artist and Paul LagosFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Johnny AlmondFind albums by this artist and Red HollowayFind albums by this artist, violinist Don Sugarcane HarrisFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Blue MitchellFind albums by this artist and others.
During those years Mayall’s groups changed constantly, and with the lineup changes also the stylistic direction changed accordingly, moving from classic Blues towards more open, Jazz influenced acoustic Blues and later Brass-Rock Blues. Mayall was constantly searching for new avenues to explore the Blues realm, gradually moving away from the classic traditional Blues songs towards original material.
This compendium of previously unavailable material is of course an incredible historic document of great value. Although the sonic quality is far from perfect at times, but combined with the video footage brings backs fond memories of a time period, when originality and uncompromised creativity was above all. Mayall’s magnificent contribution to music deserves this kind of documentation and Repertoire Records are certainly one of the best activists in that area.
Overall, this is a magnificent addition to Mayall’s recorded history and an absolute must for his many faithful followers. One can only hope for many such archival releases to follow suit. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!
| | Updated: 30/12/2023Posted: 30/12/2023 | 2CD+DVD 3 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ THE DIARY OF A BAND (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 841804 (Barcode: 602498418048) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2007
6th & 7th albums by John MayallFind albums by this artist and his BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, which were actually a double album released on two separate LPs as The Diary Of A Band Vol.1 & Vol.2 (as DeccaFind albums on this label thought that releasing a double album was too bold a step at the time). The material was recorded live during a European tour, which followed the release of CrusadeFind albums with this title and was captured on a simple reel to reel tape machine, which Mayall placed on the stage during all the concerts. Over 60 hours of music were recorded, of which two hours were selected for the release. The Bluesbreakers’ lineup was similar to that which recorded Crusade except for the new brass section man, the fantastic Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist on tenor and soprano sax (later ColosseumFind albums by this artist) and the bass position, which was occupied by either Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist or Keith TillmanFind albums by this artist. The enclosed music is a superb document of the era and one of the most authentic glimpses at the music scene of the late 1960s, as it includes some spoken word and commentary on the performances, caught right at the time when they happened. Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist plays some amazing guitar licks here, as does Dick Heckstall-Smith, especially when he blows both of his horns simultaneously. The entire album is one great trip down the nostalgia lane and the only pity is that all of it was never captured on video (which did not exist at the time unfortunately). I can’t imagine any blues fan not wanting this in his music library.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ CAMDEN `70
DUSK FIRE 105 (Barcode: 5065001032042) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
The New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist) led by composer / arranger Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist was Britain’s most prestigious and adventurous big band in the 1960s. Under Ardley’s visionary leadership the band developed the foundations for the modern European Jazz big band sound. Although incorporating the classic American big band tradition of Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist and the more modern approach of Gil EvansFind albums by this artist, Ardley managed to steer his band into uncharted territory, using his unique approach to instrumentation and bold arrangements.
At the time this album was recorded live at London’s Camden Jazz Festival in May of 1970, Ardley was already moving rapidly towards the exploding Jazz-Rock Fusion genre, creating one of the first, and magnificent at that, examples of Jazz-Rock Fusion big band. Compared to American bands at the time, like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist or ChicagoFind albums by this artist, Ardley’s approach is definitely much more refined and orchestral and uses a wider arsenal of the Jazz vocabulary, being therefore much more sophisticated. Having at his disposal some of the best British Jazz musicians (and then also Jazz-Rock Fusion musicians) he was able to turn the NJO into a “mean” and powerful Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble, which truly fuses Jazz and Rock to the max.
This of course brings us the players and more specifically to the fact that this version of NJO incorporates in its midst the entire lineup of one of the greatest British Jazz-Rock groups, ColosseumFind albums by this artist. Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist (saxophone), Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist (guitar), Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist (keyboards), Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist (bass) and Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist (drums) all play here, and even a couple of tracks the band recorded on their albums are present, in a big band arrangement of course. With the members of Colosseum as a core of the band and with other notable players like Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Dave GellyFind albums by this artist and Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist (saxophone) and even an ultra-rare appearance of Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist on trombone, this is truly a superb group, able to face any challenge Ardley’s arrangements may present them with.
BTW the presence of the Colosseum members is not incidental, as both Reeves and Hiseman were NJO’s founding members and Heckstall-Smith appeared on the NJO’s second album entitled “Le Dejeuner Sur L`HerbeFind albums with this title”. Seven of the tracks present on that album are also included here, which turns this recording into an updated live version of that timeless classic. The original recording tape of this concert had quite a few technical problems, but was painstakingly and beautifully restored to life with an exceptional sound quality considering the circumstances under which it was recorded. One should be truly grateful to the producer of this immensely important historical material for making it available to us, the fans of NJO, Colosseum and British Jazz in general. This is indispensable legacy of the period and a must to any follower of British Jazz music.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ LE DEJEUNER SUR L`HERBE
DUSK FIRE 110 (Barcode: 5065001032981) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2014
This is the second and also the last formal album by the seminal British Jazz Orchestra called New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist or NJOFind albums by this artist for short. Directed by the legendary composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist the NJO was probably the most important singular British Jazz ensemble, which shaped the way British and European Jazz developed in the late 1960s.
Despite the fact that the number of people, who are familiar with this epic recording, will hardly fill up an average British pub, it is still one of the best and more importantly revolutionary Jazz albums of all times, certainly as far as British Jazz is concerned. The fact that the album, which was released on LP in 1969 and almost immediately after disappeared from the shelves, had to wait for 45 years for its debut CD reissue confirms its anonymity and obscurity. And yet for the handful of British Jazz enthusiasts it always was the magnum opus of the British Jazz resurgence, when the music emerged for the first time as a truly new Art form, related to but fully independent from the American Jazz tradition.
Why "new"? The origin of the name is not entirely clear but NJO was new indeed; it included a new generation of British Jazz musicians, which arrived on the scene mostly in the 1960s and had very little in common with the older "swing" generation, which completely dominated the British scene up to that period, and which was entirely immersed in the American tradition, strengthened by the presence of American bands in Britain during the WWII period. Several Jazz Big Bands and orchestras were active on the British scene since the 1920s and well into the 1960s, some quite excellent and even extraordinary, but those limited the artistic scope to imitating the trends originating across the big pond. The list of British composers / bandleaders includes Ted HeathFind albums by this artist, Syd LawrenceFind albums by this artist, John DankworthFind albums by this artist and numerous others.
By the time this album was recorded the NJO was about five years old. In 1965 it recorded its debut album called "Western Reunion London 1965Find albums with this title", which beautifully sums up the first phase of its activity, when the orchestra performed mostly new arrangements of American standards, but the overall sound of the band was already quite unique and stunning. This album was recorded by the second incarnation of the NJO, which included Jack BruceFind albums by this artist on bass (who was already a member of CreamFind albums by this artist at the time), with the regular bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist taking the position of the album´s producer. The rest of the band included: trumpeters Derek WatkinsFind albums by this artist, Harry LowtherFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, trombonists John MumfordFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist and Tony RussellFind albums by this artist, tuba player George SmithFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Dave GellyFind albums by this artist, Jim PhilipFind albums by this artist and Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist.
The album presents eight compositions, five of which are originals composed by NJO members or other British Jazz musicians / composers of the new generation; those are Neil Ardley, Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist, Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist and Michael Gibbs. Two modern American Jazz standards, one by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and another one by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist are also present, but their arrangements are stunningly removed from the original versions known to most Jazz listeners. The remaining composition is by the French composer of Polish / Jewish origin Alexandre TansmanFind albums by this artist, whose composition receives another highly unusual treatment.
The album emerges triumphantly as a masterpiece of composition, arrangement, performance and intelligent music making, all those on top of its being a first of its kind and a beacon for generations to come. Many other superb Big Band / Orchestral British Jazz recordings will follow (Michael Gibbs, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and others), but as great as they were, none of them achieved the same primordial perfection, which marked the birth of British Jazz as documented herein.
If anybody wanders about the album´s title (and the title of the opening track) and its humorous sleeve design, Google it up, oh ye ignoramuses, or preferably visit the Musée d´Orsay in Paris and look for the original ;)
With the recent parting of Jack Bruce, whom I was honored and lucky to know in person, the reissue of this album is a small solace in his memory and in memory of a generation almost gone…
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA / NEIL ARDLEY GROUP ~ BBC SESSIONS 1968-1970
RHYTHM AND BLUES 101 (Barcode: 5060331753834) ~ UK ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2024
This is an archival album, which presents recordings by two Orchestral Jazz ensembles, both led by the brilliant pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. The album presents fourteen tracks, six by the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist), recorded in 1968 and eight by the Neil Ardley GroupFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1970. Five of the NJO tracks appear in a studio version on their 2nd studio album “Le Dejeuner Sur L`herbeFind albums with this title”. The first seven of the Neil Ardley Group tracks, which were composed by pianist / composer Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist and are a song cycle / Jazz & Poetry suite, were sadly never recorded in the studio and released on an album. Taylor tragically died just a few months before this music was recorded.
The lineup of these two ensembles reads like a Who’s Who of the British Jazz at the end of the 1960s, some still very young at the time, but already experienced musicians, who were going to shape the British Jazz scene in the decades to come. The NJO lineup includes Ardley as the leader / conductor, trumpeters Derek WatkinsFind albums by this artist, Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dave GellyFind albums by this artist, Jim PhilipFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, trombonists Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, Robin GardnerFind albums by this artist and Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, tuba player George SmithFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist, bassist Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The Neil Ardley Group lineup includes Ardley on piano, vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, Carr, Gelly, Thompson, Ricotti, bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and drummer Mike TravisFind albums by this artist. I rest my case…
The music, as expected, is absolutely sensational and reflects the vibrancy and ingenuity of the British Jazz scene at this pivotal period, when the modern British Jazz idiom was molded for decades to come. The specific idiosyncrasies and “Britishness” of the new epoch is simply encapsulated in every note played here. It is also a superb display of the individual talents of these magnificent musicians, those who are still with us and sadly those who departed, like Thompson and Hiseman, who met as members of the NJO and created one of the British Jazz “power couples” or Ardley and Carr, whose giant talents are deeply missed.
Overall, this is an absolute must have album for every British Jazz collector, especially in view of the fact that some of the music captured herein is not available anywhere else. For the cognoscenti, the album offers endless hints and interconnections, like a sensational version of the song “Jumping Off The Sun”, which became an anthem for the legendary ColosseumFind albums by this artist, which was founded by Hiseman and Heckstall-Smith, and included Reeves and Thompson, and so on…
| | Updated: 22/09/2024Posted: 21/09/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BARBARA THOMPSON`S PARAPHERNALIA ~ LIVE AT LEVERKUSEN 1994
REPERTOIRE 1479 (Barcode: 4009910147924) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2025
Let’s start with placing everything in a historical perspective…
By the time the concert, which this album presents, was recorded, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist’s ParaphernaliaFind albums by this artist was one of the leading instrumental ensembles on the European Jazz / Fusion scene, with an extensive recorded legacy to their credit. Following the release of their first three albums (two studio recordings and one live outing) on the MCAFind albums on this label label, Paraphernalia joined the roster of the small German independent label veraBraFind albums on this label Records, owned and run by Cologne based Vera BrandesFind albums by this artist, one of the most dynamic female Jazz activists on the European scene at the time, manager, concert organizer and record producer, who founded CMPFind albums on this label (1977), veraBra (1980) and IntuitionFind albums on this label (1984) labels, which released hundreds of albums, including some of the finest European Jazz / Fusion recordings of the era. The cooperation with Brandes opened many concert opportunities for Paraphernalia, which resulted in their popularity in Europe, and especially so in Germany, to exceed the success on their British home turf. It is not surprising therefore, that the German NDR Broadcasting corporation was happy to invite them to take part in their highly popular “Rockpalast” series of live TV broadcasts, which is the source of the material on this album.
In 1993 Paraphernalia released their fourth album on veraBra, entitled “Everlasting FlameFind albums with this title”. Recorded, mixed and produced by Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist at his Temple Music studio in Spring / Summer of 1993, it featured the quintet lineup of the ensemble, with Barbara Thompson on saxophones and flutes, keyboardist Peter LemerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Malcolm MacFarlaneFind albums by this artist, bassist Paul WestwoodFind albums by this artist and Jon Hiseman on drums and percussion, the same lineup, which is featured on this live recording. The set list includes four compositions, which originate from the new album, which they were promoting at the time, one composition from their previous album “BreathlessFind albums with this title” (1991), another one from their live album “A Cry From The Heart – Live In LondonFind albums with this title” (1988) and finally one track, which will become the title track of their future album “Shifting SandsFind albums with this title” (1998), their debut on Intuition Records.
Paraphernalia was such a superb musical vehicle not only due to the fact that it combined the talents of some of the finest British Jazz / Fusion musicians, and was led by an extraordinary instrumentalist and composer. Yes, all these elements were the necessary ingredients to create excellent music, but the true explosive amalgamation was also the result of the personal and musical relationship between Barbara and Jon, one of the most extraordinary musical couples of all time.
It was a true match made in heaven, when they met as members of the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (NJOFind albums by this artist), directed by Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. Stricken not only by her beauty, but more profoundly by her extraordinary talent as a musician, Jon proposed and they were married in 1967, a marriage that lasted for half a Century until his tragically early and unexpected death in 2018. During their entire lifetime together they cooperated in many musical projects, complimenting each other. When Hiseman founded the iconic ColosseumFind albums by this artist with the late Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, Barbara, although not a formal group member, played on all early Colosseum albums as a guest musician. When the German pianist / composer Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist founded the revolutionary Pan-European United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist, both Jon and Barbara joined and were members of the ensemble for years. When Barbara founded the Paraphernalia ensemble, although unable to join at the very early days, Jon joined soon after and became the pillar of the band. When Dick Heckstall-Smith retired from the re-united Colosseum, Barbara stepped bravely in, despite her serious health problem, to replace him. And then of course, they both had their separate projects as well, which they mutually respected. This intertwined musical / personal life-path is a true symbol of Barbara and Jon as a couple, which resulted always in a whole much greater than the sum of its parts.
Keyboardist Peter Lemer, who had a long personal relationship with the couple, remembers: “Onstage, Jon was unwavering in his commitment to quality. He deployed the best technology for sound and stage setup, ensuring that both the band and the audience had the best possible experience. His care extended especially to Barbara, creating an environment where she could perform with freedom and power. As Barbara faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, Jon’s support became even more essential. He threw himself into understanding the condition, building relationships with specialists, and even speaking at Parkinson’s symposiums, so knowledgeable that he was often mistaken for a consultant. This journey is poignantly captured in the film ‘Playing Against Time’. Through it all, their love for each other and their shared passion for music shone through. Jon’s protectiveness and Barbara’s resilience formed the foundation of their personal and professional lives. It was a privilege to be part of their journey, to share their laughter, their dedication, and their extraordinary ability to bring people together through music."
Guitarist Malcolm MacFarlane remembers: “By 1994, the year of this featured concert, I’d been in the band for 6 years. If I’m remembering correctly, this is the tour that extended to over 110 dates! As an improvising musician this was a real gift to be given the chance to develop your skills so intensely and ‘for real’ in a sustained way. I left the band the following year. Barbara and Jon were very keen for me to stay but all good things as they say… The news of Jon’s passing was such a shock, I honestly thought that he’d outlive us all as his energy levels and drive were truly inspiring. Barbara’s diagnosis and spirited fight against her condition was also inspirational. These two formed such a huge part of my growth from being a recently graduated music student into adulthood and being ‘grown up’, that after a 7-year working relationship I’m not only deeply indebted to them but I genuinely loved them both too."
So here we are, with Barbara, Jon and the rest of Paraphernalia playing their hearts out in front of an enthusiastic audience, captured for eternity on this album. It is another piece of the wonderful puzzle that Barbara and Jon left for us to cherish and admire, which will help us to remember them and their tantalizing musical heritage. Thanks to Ana GraceyFind albums by this artist for keeping the flame alight and RepertoireFind albums on this label Records for the continuous effort to make this legacy available to all fans, old and new, to delight in!
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 20/08/2025Posted: 19/08/2025 | CD+DVD 2 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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