8,232 Reviews
3,230 Visits Today
16,044,726 Visits So Far
This site uses
HTML5 & CSS3
We support
Mozilla Firefox
 

Record Reviews

Search

24 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.

GREGG ALLMAN ~ GREGG ALLMAN LIVE: BACK TO MACON, GA
ROUNDER 888072353411 (Barcode: 888072353411) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock

Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015

This is the 2nd (and last) live solo album by the American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded at the Grand Opera House, Macon, GA, on January 14, 2014 with a nine-piece band, which includes a three-piece horn section. Gregg’s son, guitarist Devon AllmanFind albums by this artist, guests on several tracks. The 2CD album presents sixteen tracks and the accompanying DVD includes all of those and adds four interviews, two bonus tracks and a feature documentary.

Recorded just a couple of years before his tragically premature demise, this amazing album presents Gregg Allman is superb form, with a heartbreakingly clear and powerful voice, full of expression and remarkable sensitivity. The material spans his entire career, including well-known songs from the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist and his solo albums, carefully selected and superbly arranged. In many respects this album is a recorded legacy of his musical achievements, captured while he was still able to give his audience the absolute best, perhaps foreseeing the troubles brewing ahead.

The material reflects the musical environment Gregg represented throughout his life, ranging between Blues, Blues-Rock, Southern Rock, Country, Soul and everything that stands behind American popular music, which he was able to remarkably consolidate and amalgamate in his music during the course of his life, with his involvement with the ABB was just one chapter, which he managed to leave behind and move forward to other pastures.

This live album should not be compared to the iconic ABB live albums, like “At Fillmore EastFind albums with this title” for example, which represent an entirely different musical universe, full of Rock improvisation and Blues influences. Without a doubt, this album is every way as fulfilling and full of sublime music, as everything Gregg did with the ABB, and beyond.

Overall, this is a superb live album, one of the best of its kind, which summarizes his musical career at the best possible way. Full of beautiful songs, excellent performances, great atmosphere, and above a heartfelt “give it all you can” attitude, this is an icon of American Rock music,
Updated: 28/06/2024Posted: 28/06/20242CD+DVD 3 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ I`M NO ANGEL / JUST BEFORE THE BULLETS FLY
FLOATING WORLD 6246 (Barcode: 805772624627) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock

Recorded: 1987 - 1988 Released: 2015

This is a reissue of the 3rd and 4th solo studio albums by American Rock keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1987 and 1988 respectively. The albums were recorded with the same lineup, which includes guitarist Dan TolerFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Tim HedingFind albums by this artist, bassist Bruce WaibelFind albums by this artist, drummer David TolerFind albums by this artist and percussionist Chaz TrippyFind albums by this artist. Each albums presents ten songs, mostly written by Allman with contributions by other songwriters also included.

Often overshadowed by the fame of his older brother Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, his partner in one the greatest Rock bands of all time, The Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist, Duane was an incredibly talented musician, brilliant Hammond organ player and incredible vocalist. Following the death of Duane and later the collapse of their band Gregg started a solo career, recording seven solo studio albums, which were divided by lengthy gaps in recording activity. His private life was a troubled and sadly often tragic, but he remained an incredible Artist till the very end.

These two albums are full of great Rock songs and excellent musicianship, which deserves to be remembered. The Southern Rock tradition, which Gregg impersonated perhaps more than any other Artist of the genre, produced some incredible and probably most genuine American Rock.

Overall, it is great to have these albums back in circulation, and listening to them almost four decades later, is still a great thrill. Great music lasts forever, which this two albums prove beyond any doubt.
Updated: 02/01/2024Posted: 02/01/2024CD 2 Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ LAID BACK (DELUXE EDITION)
MERCURY 602577427510 (Barcode: 602577427510) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock

Recorded: 1973 Released: 2019

This is an expanded reissue / remaster of the 1st solo album by the American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded while he was still a member of the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist. None of the members of the ABB play on the album and it was by a large group of studio musicians, all first rate players. The original album presented eight tracks, three of which were Allman originals. This 2CD Deluxe edition presents the remastered original album and adds eight early mixes on CD1 and eighteen demos, outtakes and alternate versions on CD2.

The album is an absolute marvel from start to finish, with beautiful, moistly romantic songs, brilliantly performed and sung, with lush instrumental arrangements. Full of Blues, Soul and even quite a few swinging Jazzy moments, it is a timeless joy and one of the best American Rock albums produced in the early 1970s. It is, however, quite different from what most ABB expected it to be, and was received mostly with mix feelings at the time. Listening to it today truly depicts Gregg’s full talent as a songwriter and performer, which stands the test of time without a hitch.

The bonus tracks on the Deluxe edition reflect the process of the album’s production step by step, until it reached its final polished / perfect form, and are of course priceless to true music lovers and a great historic document.

Overall, this is a timeless piece of music, which presents the softer side of the Southern Rock image, which Allman Brother Band presented during their epic live concerts. Gregg was undoubtedly one of the best American Rock vocalists and a sublime keyboardist, all of which is fully documented on this expanded version of the album, which is an absolute must in any decent Rock record collection. Not to be missed!
Updated: 25/06/2024Posted: 25/06/2024CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ LOW COUNTRY BLUES
ROUNDER 8595 (Barcode: 011661859524) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock

Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011

Following en extended period of silence, which lasted for a decade and a half, legendary singer / organist Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist released this, his 6th solo studio album, which is full of fantastic new arrangements of classic Blues (and some Rhythm And Blues) songs. Age and experience are evident here, as Allman really takes a very relaxed and laidback approach to this material, avoiding any attempts to imitate the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist powerful sound and energetic approach in favor of this new and elegant attitude. His voice still in excellent form and amicable support from some exquisite players the overall result is simply heart melting.

Every Blues lover will find these interpretations very interesting, as they combine a respectful treatment of the original tunes with innovative ideas. Produced by T Bone BurnettFind albums by this artist, who is considered as one of the top contemporary music producers, the album has a unique sound, which moves between small combo and a larger brass ensemble. A long list of great musicians participate, among them Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist) on piano. Most warmly recommended!
Updated: 02/01/2024Posted: CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ PLAYIN` UP A STORM
POLYDOR 042283194229 (Barcode: 042283194229) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock

Recorded: 1977 Released: 2001

This is a reissue / remaster of the 2nd solo album by the American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded following the breakup of the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist in 1976. Allman is accompanied by his group and several studio musicians, including a brass and string section, all first rate players. The album presents nine tracks, three of which are Allman originals and one is co-composed with Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Mac RebennackFind albums by this artist), who also plays on the album. The rest of the tracks are interpretations of songs by other songwriters.

The album is excellent from start to finish, with beautiful songs, brilliantly performed and sung, with lush instrumental arrangements. Full of Blues, Soul and even quite a few swinging Jazzy moments, it is a timeless joy and a proper follow up to the debut album released four years earlier. It is, however, again quite different from what most ABB fans expected it to be, and was received mostly with mix feelings at the time. Listening to it today truly depicts Gregg’s full talent as a songwriter and performer, which stands the test of time without a hitch.

Overall, this is a timeless piece of music, which presents the softer side of the Southern Rock image, which Allman Brothers Band presented during their epic live concerts. Gregg was undoubtedly one of the best American Rock vocalists and a sublime keyboardist, all of which is fully documented on this album, which is an absolute must in any decent Rock record collection. Not to be missed!
Updated: 18/07/2024Posted: 18/07/2024CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ SOUTHERN BLOOD (DELUXE EDITION)
ROUNDER 888072033689 (Barcode: 888072033689) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock

Recorded: 2016 Released: 2017

This is the 7th and last studio album by American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in 2016 and released posthumously shortly after his death. The album presents ten songs, only one of which was co-written by Allman and the guitarist Scott SharrardFind albums by this artist. The rest are covers by other American songwriters, including Jackson BrowneFind albums by this artist, who guests on one track. A brass section and several background vocalists appear as well.

This Deluxe Edition includes a couple of live bonus tracks and a bonus DVD, which presents a documentary about the recording of this album, entitled “Back To The Swamp”.

Despite the fact that Allman was gravely ill by the time this album was recorded, his vocals are still in perfect form and he sings his heart out, creating a remarkable result. The music is typical Southern Rock, as well as Country and Blues influenced Rock, which was Allman’s home turf, and he performs it with great feeling and panache.

Allman’s life story depicts the fate of many American Rock musicians, including long episodes of drug addiction and alcoholism, which tragically robbed them from a chance to achieve much more in their careers and finally costed them their lives. But Gregg Allman’s recorded legacy, both with the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist and as a solo artist, is some of the best American Rock ever produced, and is worth being remembered.

Overall, this is the last chapter of a long and troubled career, which left us with some incredible music, which still sound better today that most of contemporary efforts. American Blues-Rock fans should definitely have this one in their collections, as it does not get any better elsewhere. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Updated: 10/07/2024Posted: 14/05/2024CD+DVD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ THE GREGG ALLMAN TOUR
MUSIC ON CD 14359 (Barcode: 600753986189) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock

Recorded: 1974 Released: 2023

This is the reissue of the 1st live solo album by the American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter / bandleader Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded at the Carnegie Hall in NYC and Capitol Theatre, Passaic, NJ in 1974, during the tour following the release of his debut album “Laid BackFind albums with this title”. It was recorded with a 24-piece orchestra and features the band CowboyFind albums by this artist, who perform two of their songs. The album presents twelve tracks and was originally released as a 2LP album. Several of the songs here appear, as expected, on the debut album.

The album is a great example of what live music sounded like in the early 1970s, with superb sound, intricate arrangements, careful production, etc., everything which could contribute to the pleasure of the listeners. The music is of course familiar to those who know Gregg’s debut album, but here they appear in a sublime Big Band arrangements with a strong Brass Rock feel, much less dominant on the studio album. In any case this album is a perfect companion to the debut album, and they are simply inseparable musically.

Overall, this is a true gem of an album, full of great music, heated and heartfelt live performances, great musicianship and of course a great tribute to Gregg Allman’s many talents, reflecting American Rock as its best period. A superb piece of Rock history – and yes they don’t make music like that anymore since a very long time!
Updated: 30/06/2024Posted: 30/06/2024CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

GREGG ALLMAN ~ UNCLE SAM`S
SAWRITE 0001 (Barcode: 860012170104) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock

Recorded: 1983 Released: 2024

This is an archival live album by American keyboardist / vocalist / songwriter Gregg AllmanFind albums by this artist, recorded on July 1, 1983. It features the octet version of the Gregg Allman BandFind albums by this artist, which included also the Toler brothers: Dan TolerFind albums by this artist on lead guitar and Frankie TolerFind albums by this artist on drums, Greg VoorhessFind albums by this artist on bass, Bruce WaibelFind albums by this artist on guitar, Chaz TrippyFind albums by this artist on percussion and the Finney brothers brass section: Donn FinneyFind albums by this artist on saxophone and flute and Larry FinneyFind albums by this artist on trumpet – a formidable ensemble by all counts. The album presents nine tracks, six of which are written or co-written by Gregg Allman and three are Blues standards. Despite the fact that this recording was never intended for a formal release, the sound quality is very good.

The material is a collection of songs from Gregg Allman’s first two solo albums and classic material from the Allman Brothers BandFind albums by this artist repertoire. Allman plays some superb organ parts and sings brilliantly, and Toler plays many excellent guitar soli, which means that the result is as good as one might expect from anything Allman and his band were able to offer over the years, which is better that most other American bands.

Overall, this is a great trip down the memory lane, when Rock still was meaningful and some of its greatest heroes were still around and kicking. Although this album adds nothing new to the extensive Allman’s recorded legacy, every new addition to that huge volume of heartfelt music is always welcome as far as I am concerned. Gregg’s voice always melts my heart, especially in difficult moments, like now.
Updated: 20/06/2025Posted: 20/06/2025CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

ARKHAM ~ ARKHAM
CUNEIFORM 160 (Barcode: 045775016023) ~ BELGIUM ~ Progressive Rock

Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2002

Never previously available material by the Belgian trio ArkhamFind albums by this artist, which included Daniel DenisFind albums by this artist and Jean-Luc ManderlierFind albums by this artist. Both of them were to join MagmaFind albums by this artist later on, and of course Denis was to form Univers ZeroFind albums by this artist. These live recordings from the early 70`s show Arkham as a Counterbury influenced outfit playing material similar to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, EggFind albums by this artist and sometimes the NiceFind albums by this artist. Some really hot playing there!
 CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

BEGGARS OPERA ~ ACT ONE
REPERTOIRE 7041 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene


1st album from 1970. As many other Prog groups of that period, Beggars Opera based the material of their debut album on interpretation of classical music pieces, but gave the music very unusual arrangements. This album created quite a stir at the time is is still considered as one of the best early Prog works.
 CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

BEGGARS OPERA ~ PATHFINDER
REPERTOIRE 7028 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene


3rd album from 1972. Similar to the second album with mostly self-written material, long pieces and extended solos. Musically still very interesting.
 CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

BEGGARS OPERA ~ WATERS OF CHANGE
REPERTOIRE 7029 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene


2nd album from 1971. By the time this album was released, the group matured and developed more self-penned material, which is quite interesting. Long tracks enable them to develop the atmosphere and take extended solos, all in very good taste.
 CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

BEGGARS` HILL ~ BEGGARS` HILL
TALKING ELEPHANT 156 (Barcode: 5028479015627) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock

Recorded: 1975 Released: 2010

Only album by British Folk-Rock group Beggars` HillFind albums by this artist, which was for years one of the most sought after LPs of the genre, finally sees a CD reissue. The band was a pretty lose collection of singers and players, but the core of the band consisted of Dave ForhndorffFind albums by this artist and John DavisFind albums by this artist, who are present on all the eleven tracks of the album. Stylistically very similar to other British Folk-Rock outfits of the day, like PentangleFind albums by this artist and Fairport ConventionFind albums by this artist, the album is a classic of the genre. The original LP was privately pressed in 500 copies only and in time obtained a legendary status of a lost gem. In retrospect it still sounds great and is a pure delight for fans of the genre. Wholeheartedly recommended!
 CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

EGG ~ EGG
ESOTERIC 2035 (Barcode: 5013929713529) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008

1st album by this legendary UK Prog trio EggFind albums by this artist, which featured the talents of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, bassist Mont CampbellFind albums by this artist and drummer Clive BrooksFind albums by this artist and was associated with the Canterbury scene. The trio produced music of startling originality and energy, drawing on influences ranging from Rock to Jazz to Psychedelia to Classical. At the time the band was heavily influenced by the work done by Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist and NiceFind albums by this artist, who pioneered the adaptation of Classical Music into Rock. The album follows this path with the entire second side of the original LP dedicated to a semi-classical piece based on Classical quotations. A part of the suite was banned from release for contractual reasons and appears on this reissue for the first time. Originally released on the esoteric DeccaFind albums on this label imprint NovaFind albums on this label and unavailable for many years this album was a most sought after collectors´ item.
 CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EGG ~ EGG
ECLECTIC 1014 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1970

1st album by this legendary UK Prog band. EggFind albums by this artist featured the talents of Dave StewartFind albums by this artist on keyboards, Mont CampbellFind albums by this artist on bass and Clive BrooksFind albums by this artist on drums and were associated with the Canterbury sub-genre. The trio produced music of startling originality and energy, drawing on influences ranging from rock to jazz to psychedelia to classical. For many years this album was a most sought after collector`s item.
 CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

EGG ~ THE CIVIL SURFACE
ESOTERIC 2003 (Barcode: 5013929710320) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1974 Released: 2007

3rd and last album by the brilliant British trio EggFind albums by this artist, which comprised of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, bassist Mont CampbellFind albums by this artist and drummer Clive BrooksFind albums by this artist, recorded almost three years after the group disbanded following the release of their previous album. Unfortunately the reunion proved to be short lived, and this was to be their last recording together. Egg was an archetypal representative of the Canterbury scene and their sound, dominated by Stewart´s keyboards, is one of the genre´s most recognizable aural icons. In between recording the second and this, the third album with Egg, Stewart played keyboards with Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, another seminal Canterbury band, contributing his incredible talent to the success of that ensemble. The album is a superb example of the Canterbury essence – strange haunting melodies, quirky rhythmic patterns and incredible virtuosic instrumental performances, spiced on top with a good measure of British humor. There is not one weak moment here from start to finish and the music stand its ground honorably, in complete disregard to the time passing by. A few notable guest musicians take part in the recording, including members of Henry CowFind albums by this artist (fellow VirginFind albums on this label label recording artists at the time) and guitarist Steve HillageFind albums by this artist. This album is an absolute must to every Canterbury fan!
 CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EGG ~ THE POLITE FORCE
ECLECTIC 1015 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene


2nd album from 1971. The legendary trio take their adventurous music even further, especially on the 20+ minutes long epic track. The formula of mixing jazz, rock and classical influences and creating a unique amalgam works well and creates music ever full of twists and turns, always surprising and challenging. Definitely worth investigating!
 CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EGG ~ THE POLITE FORCE
ESOTERIC 2036 (Barcode: 5013929713628) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008

2nd album by this legendary UK Prog trio EggFind albums by this artist, which featured the talents of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, bassist Mont CampbellFind albums by this artist and drummer Clive BrooksFind albums by this artist and was associated with the Canterbury scene. The trio produced music of startling originality and energy, drawing on influences ranging from Rock to Jazz to Psychedelia to Classical. The album follows the path of its predecessor with the entire second side of the original LP again dedicated to a long suite in four parts. The music is even more complex and often uses odd rhythmic patterns. The group split up several months after the release of the album, only to be re-united almost 3 years later to record one more album. Originally released on the DeccaFind albums on this label imprint DeramFind albums on this label and unavailable for many years this album was a most sought after collectors´ item.
 CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

EGGROLL ~ LIVE PROGRESSIVE ACT
NOT ON LABEL ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock

Recorded: 2005

This is the 1st Israeli Prog DVD. Filmed in late 2003, it documents performances by the Prog band EggrollFind albums by this artist, which started a few years back as a “cover” band, playing music by GenesisFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist and others. Their highly professional performances gradually earned the band a solid following and admiration and the band’s many performances around the country served as a catalyst for the local Prog scene, which is flourishing in the last few years. The music includes three lengthy covers (“This As A Brick”, “Starless” and Supper’s Ready”), which reflect the band’s ability as performers, and some original material that the band’s members wrote, as well as a short documentary about the band. This is an important document of the Israeli Prog scene and hopefully more material like this will become available soon. 59 minutes.
 DVD 1 Recommend To A Friend

EGGROLL & THE SHAKES ~ FAIRYTALE
NOT ON LABEL ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock

Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006

1st album by the Israeli Prog band EggrollFind albums by this artist and one of the most anticipated releases on the local scene. Eggroll started a few years back as a “cover” band, playing music by GenesisFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist, Jethro TullFind albums by this artist and others. Their performances were highly professional and gradually earned the band a solid following and admiration. That period of their activity is well documented on their DVD Live Progressive ActFind albums with this title filmed in 2003. Fans and critics often asked the band to include original material in their act and they started to do so in the last couple of years. This debut album consists of entirely original material, which is of course most welcome. The songs (sung in English) have close ties to the Progressive sources, but fortunately are original enough to avoid being mere copies. If fact the level of composition is surprisingly high, with well developed themes and well-crafted instrumental arrangements. The vocals are excellent as well, with no foreign accent whatsoever. Overall a superb debut album and a most welcome addition to the excellent output produced by Israeli bands in the last couple of years. Most warmly recommended!
 CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

KHAN ~ SPACE SHANTY
ESOTERIC 2046 (Barcode: 5013929714625) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1972 Released: 2008

Only album recorded by the short-lived Canterbury group KhanFind albums by this artist, which was fronted by guitarist Steve HillageFind albums by this artist and included keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist (who was a member of EggFind albums by this artist, another Canterbury group, at the time), bassist Nick GreenwoodFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric PeacheyFind albums by this artist, which turned out to be the first major exposure of Hillage´s considerable talents as a guitarist and composer. Later on Hillage joined GongFind albums by this artist and then released a series of excellent solo albums, but here he unveils his superb guitar work for the first time, playing a series of tunes he composed. The music is typical Canterbury mixture of Rock, Jazz and Psychedelic influences, beautifully executed and full of wit and inspiration. Stewart´s keyboards work is excellent as always and the entire album retains its original charm untouched by the passing time. The album was one of the most sought after collectors´ items for many years until reissued on CD and is considered a classic Canterbury release. A must to all Canterbury fans!
 CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

RUNE KLAKEGG & SCHEEN JAZZORKESTER ~ FJON
LOSEN 153 (Barcode: 7090025831539) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz

Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016

This is a beautiful album by Norwegian Jazz pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Rune KlakeggFind albums by this artist, recorded with the Scheen JazzorkesterFind albums by this artist, a regional orchestra comprising of thirteen players, of which Klakegg is the artistic director and pianist. The album presents six original compositions by Klakegg and one arrangement of a standard. Vibraphonist Rob WaringFind albums by this artist, a long time musical associate of Klakegg, appears as a guest and fourteenth orchestra member and vocalist Nina GromstadFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, with Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist presiding at the console, which of course means that the sound quality and clarity is exceptional.

The music includes a collection of compositions by Klakegg, which have been assembled for a concert celebrating his sixtieth anniversary, and were consequently recorded for this album. The exquisite arrangements turn this music into a typical European large ensemble musical journey, which is as close to musical bliss as one ever gets. I have always been a sucker for the Big Band / Orchestral sound and therefore this album is an immediate favorite.

Although the arrangements include solos on some of the tracks, the name of the game is the ensemble work and sound, with delicate, multilayered intricacies, which are revealed during consecutive listening sessions. Of course the arrangements have some relationship to the legacy of Gil EvansFind albums by this artist and Maria SchneiderFind albums by this artist, but also European influences like George GruntzFind albums by this artist and Mathias RüeggFind albums by this artist come to mind.

Most of the stunning melodic themes composed by Klakegg are melancholic and delightfully lyrical, with a certain touch of the Nordic elegance and majestic calmness. But the music on this album is full of internal dynamics and flows rapidly like the Norwegian streams originating in the ice caps. Having just returned from the magnificent Norwegian landscapes, this music invokes immediately the fresh memories and will probably remain associated with them forever. In many respects I could envisage this music as a soundtrack of a documentary about Norway´s spectacular beauty.

For connoisseurs of Orchestral Jazz this album is an immediate classic, and as such deserves to be heard by as many people as possible. The elegance, modesty and discipline that this album presents is a model for all orchestral Jazz recordings and deserves to be taught at music academies as an example of good taste. Gorgeous stuff!
Updated: 12/08/2016Posted: 12/08/2016CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

NATIONAL HEALTH ~ NATIONAL HEALTH
ESOTERIC 2129 (Barcode: 5013929722927) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1977 Released: 2009

1st album by the exquisite band National HealthFind albums by this artist, which was the last of the great original bands and the centerpiece crown jewel of the Canterbury scene, as it combined all the elements that made this musical excursion so unique and important, crystallizing a decade of development and constant search for new forms of musical expression. Formed by keyboardist / composer Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, who previously led such cornerstone Canterbury ensembles like EggFind albums by this artist and Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, combining musicians of the last and another sublime ensemble GilgameshFind albums by this artist, which also recently fell apart. After several personnel changes, the band stabilized as a quartet, including in addition to Stewart guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist, bassist Neil MurrayFind albums by this artist and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, all veterans and immensely gifted players. The album also includes guest contributions of other Canterbury luminaries, like Alan GowenFind albums by this artist (keyboards), Amanda ParsonsFind albums by this artist (vocals), Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist (flute) and others. Overall National Health was an ideal tool to deliver the intricate melodic content of Stewart´s compositions, spiced with lengthy jazzy improvisations, which could go on for several minutes and allow ample opportunity for the players to stretch out, probably more that in any earlier Canterbury ensemble. There is never a dull moment here, with ideas chasing ideas at all times and the listener is drawn into the music completely. This album is a timeless masterpiece and an essential cornerstone of any serious record collection!
 CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

NATIONAL HEALTH ~ OF QUEUES AND CURES
ESOTERIC 2130 (Barcode: 5013929723023) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009

2nd album by the exquisite band National HealthFind albums by this artist, which was the last of the great original bands and the centerpiece crown jewel of the Canterbury scene, as it combined all the elements that made this musical excursion so unique and important, crystallizing a decade of development and constant search for new forms of musical expression. Formed by keyboardist / composer Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, who previously led such cornerstone Canterbury ensembles like EggFind albums by this artist and Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, combining musicians of the last and another sublime ensemble GilgameshFind albums by this artist, which also recently fell apart. After bassist Neil MurrayFind albums by this artist left the band following the recording of the debut album, he was replaced by bassist John GreavesFind albums by this artist from Henry CowFind albums by this artist, another Canterbury icon. The album included several guest musicians, among them the superb trumpeter Phil MintonFind albums by this artist and overall it fallowed the same lines as the debut. Overall National Health was an ideal tool to deliver the intricate melodic content of Stewart´s compositions, spiced with lengthy jazzy improvisations, which could go on for several minutes and allow ample opportunity for the players to stretch out, probably more that in any earlier Canterbury ensemble. There is never a dull moment here, with ideas chasing ideas at all times and the listener is drawn into the music completely. This album is a timeless masterpiece and an essential cornerstone of any serious record collection!
 CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

This site was designed and developed by Adam Baruch. All content (texts, photographs, graphics, sound files, etc.) on this web site © 2001-2025 Adam Baruch / Jazzis Ltd.