Record Reviews
30 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | CAMEL ~ BREATHLESS (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2155 (Barcode: 5013929725522) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
7th album by British Prog legends CamelFind albums by this artist, which marks a transition period in the band´s history, which followed a five years of personnel stability and incredibly productive output, as documented by their albums released during that period. Prior to the recording of this album´s predecessor – "Rain DancesFind albums with this title" – founding member / bassist Doug FergusonFind albums by this artist left the band, leaving the remaining three founding members: keyboardist Peter BardensFind albums by this artist, guitarist Andy LatimerFind albums by this artist and drummer Andy WardFind albums by this artist in need for replacement. They soon found the incredibly gifted bass player Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist (CaravanFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist) and also added saxophonist / flautist Mel CollinsFind albums by this artist (King CrimsonFind albums by this artist) as a permanent member of the band, making it a quintet for the first time, and this lineup recorded "Rain Dances". However, during the recording of "BreathlessFind albums with this title", Peter Bardens announced, that he´ll be leaving the group, which was a serious blow, considering his enormous input to the group´s creative process. The quintet lineup managed to record the album, with Bardens leaving immediately after. As to the music included on the album; at the time of its release it was considered both by the band´s fans and critics as disappointing and way too "commercial" in comparison to the band´s earlier efforts. In retrospect, although different indeed, it still preserves an incredibly high musical standard and integrity, both on the compositional and performance level, and suggests that it was rather the fans, who disliked change, then the band, which propagated change, which caused the fracture. There is no doubt that this album belongs to the proud heritage of music left to us by one of the best British Prog bands in the genre´s history. Recommended!
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  | 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!
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  | GILGAMESH ~ ANOTHER FINE TUNE YOU`VE GOT ME INTO
ESOTERIC 2126 (Barcode: 5013929722620) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
2nd album by the wonderful Canterbury scene iconic ensemble GilgameshFind albums by this artist, founded by keyboardist Alan GowenFind albums by this artist in 1972. Over the years the ensemble operated under a revolving door policy with lineup changes as frequent as gigging opportunities and the musicians changing places between groups like Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist, Soft HeapFind albums by this artist and other lesser known outfits. The list of ex-Gilgamesh members reads like a crème de la crème of the Canterbury Jazz / Rock scene. By 1975 the group managed to record their debut album for the VirginFind albums on this label´s esoteric imprint CarolineFind albums on this label, only to splinter again soon after. Three years later Gowen re-assembled a new lineup of Gilgamesh and recorded this album, which unfortunately was to be their last, with Gowen dying of leukemia in 1981 at the age of just 33. The players on this album are Gowen on keyboards, original Gilgamesh member guitarist Phil LeeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and veteran Jazz drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The music, written almost entirely by Gowen, is typical Canterbury mix of Jazz and some Rock influences, with extended improvisations and brilliant performances from start to finish. Gowen´s brilliant compositions remain unmatched and unchallenged in their harmonic beauty and sophistication. This is classic Canterbury stuff and it retains its vitality and importance with no signs of getting outdated. A must to any Canterbury or British Jazz-Rock enthusiast!
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  | HATFIELD AND THE NORTH ~ HATFIELD AND THE NORTH (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2139 (Barcode: 5013929723924) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2009
1st album by the legendary Canterbury group Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, probably the most iconic and unsurpassed masters of the genre. Comprising of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, with guests like reedman Geoff LeighFind albums by this artist (Henry CowFind albums by this artist), vocalist Robert WyattFind albums by this artist and others, they recorded what is considered to be the ultimate Canterbury masterpiece. The album represents everything that the genre stands for: brilliant melodies, strange harmonies, superb musicianship, quirk rhythmic patterns and a good dash of British humor. It is difficult to pinpoint why this album and its follow up turned out to be the genre´s icons, but the fact that they are the first thing that come to mind when Canterbury is mentioned speaks for itself. Whatever the reasons, this is an absolute classic album, which lost nothing of its intrinsic beauty and musical perfection over time. Absolutely essential!
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  | HATFIELD AND THE NORTH ~ THE ROTTERS` CLUB (EXPANDED EDITION)
VIRGIN 2030 (Barcode: 777787267222) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1975 Released: 1990
2nd album by Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist. As impossible as it may sound, this album is considered even better and more mature then the debut album. Regardless of what the case really is, this one is surely at least as good as the 1st one, which means it`s an absolute classic. The only sad thing is that this was to be their last album.
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  | HATFIELD AND THE NORTH ~ THE ROTTERS` CLUB (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2140 (Barcode: 5013929724020) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2009
2nd album by the legendary Canterbury group Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, probably the most iconic and unsurpassed masters of the genre. Comprising of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, with guests like Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist, Mont CampbellFind albums by this artist, Lindsay CooperFind albums by this artist and Tim HodgkinsonFind albums by this artist, they recorded what is considered to be the ultimate Canterbury masterpiece. The album represents everything that the genre stands for: brilliant melodies, strange harmonies, superb musicianship, quirk rhythmic patterns and a good dash of British humor. It is difficult to pinpoint why this album and its predecessor turned out to be the genre´s icons, but the fact that they are the first thing that come to mind when Canterbury is mentioned speaks for itself. Whatever the reasons, this is an absolute classic album, which lost nothing of its intrinsic beauty and musical perfection over time. Absolutely essential!
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  | HUGH HOPPER ~ HOPPER TRINITY BOX
CUNEIFORM 240 (Barcode: 045775024028) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2007
2nd album by Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (and the first release after he left Soft MachineFind albums by this artist), released originally on the tiny Norwegian Compendium label (same label that originally released Henry CowFind albums by this artist’s ConcertsFind albums with this title and other weird but wonderful music). Musically the album belongs very strongly to the Soft Machine experimental Jazz-Rock of the ThirdFind albums by this artist, FourthFind albums with this title, FiveFind albums with this title & SixFind albums by this artist period (when Hopper was still a member of the group). Hopper enlisted eight great musicians (Mark CharigFind albums by this artist, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, Gary WindoFind albums by this artist and others), all members of the flourishing Canterbury scene and UK Jazz circles (members in groups like Brotherhood Of BreathFind albums by this artist, GilgameshFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, IsotopeFind albums by this artist, Keith TippettFind albums by this artist Sextet, etc), who make up the duos, trios, quartets and quintets that play on this album. He wrote all the music, except one track, which was composed by Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist. This album is considered Hopper’s most consistent release ever and sounds as fresh today as when it was first recorded. For all Canterbury scene and SM fans this is an absolute must and it’s a great joy to see this album available again. Brilliant stuff!
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  | ALEX MAGUIRE ~ BREWED IN BELGIUM
MOONJUNE 022 (Barcode: 692287902223) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
British pianist / composer Alex MaguireFind albums by this artist has been associated with the Canterbury scene as the man behind the keyboards in several ensembles led by Canterbury heroes, such as Pip PyleFind albums by this artist and Phil MillerFind albums by this artist, as well as a member of the reformed Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist. Extensive touring all over Europe led Alex to meet many distinguished European musicians, among them the Belgian guitarist Michel DelvilleFind albums by this artist, with whom Maguire developed a special rapport. Several years later Maguire and Delville met again, forming a sextet comprised of leading Belgian musicians, captured performing live on this album. The music played by the sextet, composed mostly by Maguire, is similar in spirit to the Canterbury scene Jazzy excursions, spiced with Fusion, Free and other delicacies. Extensive soloing, superb interplay and an atmosphere of camaraderie can be easily sensed here, resulting in some truly uplifting music produced by these musicians. A must to all Canterbury fans!
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  | MATCHING MOLE ~ LITTLE RED RECORD (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2312 (Barcode: 5013929431249) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2012
This is the 2nd and last album by Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, the seminal Canterbury ensemble formed by drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, after he left Soft MachineFind albums by this artist. Although Wyatt was determined to start a solo career following his split with Soft Machine, Matching Mole was born and kept going for about a year, recording two legendary studio albums. Live performances and BBC radio recordings gave birth, decades later, to three albums, which consist of material from these sources and now the expanded editions of the two studio albums give us another two new CDs of Matching Mole material, all together 7 CDs worth of superb Canterbury stuff at its best. The lineup, which recorded this music, consisted of Wyatt, keyboardist Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist and bassist Bill MacCormickFind albums by this artist. MacRae contributed or co-contributed most of the music on this album, with Wyatt taking charge of occasional vocal parts and lyrics. The music lost absolutely nothing of its freshness and the wonderful weirdness, which characterizes most of Canterbury output. Of course the genre would fully blossom only shortly after Matching Mole would be no more and its members would form such legendary groups like Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist and National HealthFind albums by this artist. This is music straight from heaven, for listeners inclined towards the more sophisticated end of the spectrum, combining complex improvisation and quirky rhythmic patterns, which have no parallel anywhere. Of course this kind of music should be kept alive at all costs and this new edition does the job just fine, with a crisp new remaster and plenty of previously unheard stuff to make every fan green from ear to ear. Essential stuff for body and soul!
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  | MATCHING MOLE ~ ON THE RADIO
HUX 083 (Barcode: 682970000831) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2006
Although Matching MoleFind albums by this artist existed for barely a year, they are still considered one of the most important Canterbury scene bands and their musical legacy achieved legendary status over the years. Formed in late 1971 by Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, who left Soft MachineFind albums by this artist dissatisfied with the Free Jazz phase the band he founded was going through at the time, this new band was much closer stylistically to the Soft Machine Jazz-Rock period, which recorded ThirdFind albums with this title. The original lineup included (apart from Wyatt) the ex-CaravanFind albums by this artist keyboards wizard Dave SinclairFind albums by this artist, bassist Bill MacCormickFind albums by this artist and guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist. Pianist Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist joined later, playing alongside Sinclair and when Sinclair left he stayed on as the resident keyboards player. The band recorded two excellent albums: the self-titled debut Matching MoleFind albums with this title and Little Red RecordFind albums by this artist. Following the band’s split by the end of 1972, Wyatt started his solo career and Sinclair and Miller went on to form Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist and National HealthFind albums by this artist, the two most significant Canterbury bands ever. The CuneiformFind albums on this label label released two albums with live Matching Mole material in the 2000s (Smoke SignalsFind albums with this title and MarchFind albums with this title), but their BBC sessions reminded unreleased until now. This is the first time that the BBC sessions, recorded between January and April of 1972, can be heard by the numerous fans of the band, myself included. Both the quintet and the later quartet versions of the band can be heard. The music is of course phenomenal and needs no further recommendation, something any Canterbury fan around the globe will surely agree with.
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  | STEVE MILLER / LOL COXHILL ~ MILLER/COXHILL COXHILL/MILLER / THE STORY SO FAR…OH REALLY?
CUNEIFORM 253/254 (Barcode: 045775025322) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1971 - 1974 Released: 2007
This extraordinary reissue project brings back to life the recording legacy the cooperation between of two of the legendary figures of the UK Avant-Garde scene: pianist Steve MillerFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist. It spans the years 1971 to 1974 and includes the two albums they recorded together as well as additional live material by the duo, solo pieces by Miller and the group DeliveryFind albums by this artist of which they were both members. Except for the Delivery recordings, which was the prototype of the Canterbury scene to develop later into groups like CaravanFind albums by this artist, Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist and many more, most of the material is very experimental and Avant-Garde, which would characterize the direction Coxhill was to pursue later on, when he became an integral collaborator to the UK Free Jazz scene. Additional musicians include such Canterbury scene icons as Steve’s brother Phil MillerFind albums by this artist (guitar), Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist (bass), Pip PyleFind albums by this artist (drums), Robert WyattFind albums by this artist (percussion) and others. This is by no means easy listening stuff, but those music lovers, who are ready to make the special effort and undertake the intellectual challenge to penetrate this complex mesh of creativity, are in for a treat. The wonderful balance between Steve’s structured chord sequences and Coxhill’s ventures into deep space creates a deeply rewarding listening experience. This reissue offers a wonderful glance at the most fascinating years of musical development of the UK scene and a historic document of high importance. Kudos to the CuneiformFind albums on this label label for their efforts to preserve this music for eternity. Grab it!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIRAGE ~ NOW YOU SEE IT…
VOCALION 8431 (Barcode: 765387843120) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2007
The short-lived Jazz-Rock Fusion group MirageFind albums by this artist is an excellent example of the incredible high level of music created in Britain in the 1970s. Co-led by two great instrumentalist and composers: saxophonist George KhanFind albums by this artist and guitarist Brian GoddingFind albums by this artist, they managed to record just one album, which was originally released on the obscure, but visionary Norwegian CompendiumFind albums on this label label (along with some other superb albums), which unfortunately folded shortly after this album was released. The group also included bassist Steve CookFind albums by this artist and drummer Dave SheenFind albums by this artist on permanent basis, but was often expanded to a sextet with the addition of Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist on keyboards and John MitchellFind albums by this artist on percussion. The group played music composed by Khan and Godding, which was a typical British Fusion, somewhat similar to what the many Canterbury groups (Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist) were doing at the time, with strong melodic lines and lengthy improvisations. Godding was of course one of the best British guitarists, sadly much under-appreciated and respected mostly among his peers. This most welcome reissue expands the original album by adding two long jam-like tracks recorded live, which give an excellent glimpse as to how the group (in its sextet form) sounded on stage. Brilliant stuff, from start to finish and a must to all Fusion-heads.
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  | 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!
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  | 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!
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  | SOFT HEAP ~ SOFT HEAP
ESOTERIC 2131 (Barcode: 5013929723122) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
Only album by the great band Soft HeapFind albums by this artist, a short-lived Canterbury super-group where members of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist – bass and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist – sax) met with pianist Alan GowenFind albums by this artist (GilgameshFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist) and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist (GongFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist). They managed to record just this one (eponymous) studio album and disbanded shortly afterwards, with each musician pursuing their own path. The band had all the qualities that make the Canterbury scene so special; superb musicianship, great compositions and a free spirit atmosphere with a dash of typical British humor. For specialists – the band´s name (second word) is an acronym of the band members´ first names. Considering the fact that Gowen, Dean, Pyle and Hopper are no longer with us (they passed away in 1981, 2006, 2006 and 2009 respectively) this is a tremendously important document of an era, which unfortunately is long time gone. A must for any Canterbury fan!
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  | SUPERSISTER ~ ISKANDER
ESOTERIC 2058 (Barcode: 5013929715820) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2008
4th and last album by the brilliant Dutch band SupersisterFind albums by this artist, which almost singlehandedly were Europe´s answer to the British Canterbury scene. Often compared to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (circa "ThirdFind albums with this title"), in fact the group is more comparable to later Canterbury groups like Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist and even later CaravanFind albums by this artist, although chronologically they preceded these groups by several years. Obviously influenced by Soft Machine´s jazzy free improvisational excursions, the band was also influenced by many other experimental Rock (Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist), Jazz musicians and contemporary Classical composers. Following the recording of the previous album, the band´s flautist and drummer left to pursue their careers were replaced by a new drummer and the great American-born but living in Europe saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist. Naturally as the result the band´s music became even more Jazzy. The album was recorded in England (with some guest musicians) and this time it was a concept work dedicated to Alexander the Great. Unfortunately soon after the album was recorded Mariano left and the group disbanded, after the legendary Elton DeanFind albums by this artist played with tem for a while, leaving us the legacy of four wonderful albums.
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  | SUPERSISTER ~ PRESENT FROM NANCY
ESOTERIC 2056 (Barcode: 5013929715622) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
1st album by the brilliant Dutch band SupersisterFind albums by this artist, which almost singlehandedly were Europe´s answer to the British Canterbury scene. Often compared to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (circa "ThirdFind albums with this title"), in fact the group is more comparable to later Canterbury groups like Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist and even later CaravanFind albums by this artist, although chronologically they preceded these groups by several years. Obviously influenced by Soft Machine´s jazzy free improvisational excursions, the band was also influenced by many other experimental Rock (Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist), Jazz musicians and contemporary Classical composers. With the European Jazz scene rapidly developing to emancipate itself from the half-decade American domination, with Holland as one of the epicenters of the new European Jazz, the band was a reflection of the trends by the young European musicians to go elsewhere in search of their musical ventures. The stunning debut album by Supersister is a great example of spontaneity, daring and complete disregard for commercial consideration, all these of course on top of amazing talent and musicianship of its four band members. Similar to early Soft Machine the band did not include a guitarist, so the soloing is mostly done by the keyboardist and flute player, but the bass player and drummer had also a most significant role. Altogether this is a magnificent piece of music and a stunning debut album, worthy of an honorable place in any serious music collection. Essential listening experience!
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  | SUPERSISTER ~ TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER
ESOTERIC 2057 (Barcode: 5013929715721) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
2nd album by the brilliant Dutch band SupersisterFind albums by this artist, which almost singlehandedly were Europe´s answer to the British Canterbury scene. Often compared to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (circa "ThirdFind albums with this title"), in fact the group is more comparable to later Canterbury groups like Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist and even later CaravanFind albums by this artist, although chronologically they preceded these groups by several years. Obviously influenced by Soft Machine´s jazzy free improvisational excursions, the band was also influenced by many other experimental Rock (Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist), Jazz musicians and contemporary Classical composers. This follow up to their stunning debut is every bit as excellent and its release established the group as one of the most important European Jazz-Rock acts. Full of great melody lines, quirky rhythm changes and exceptional sensitivity, this is a true gem, always worthy of returning to. Essential listening experience!
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  | TREVOR TOMKINS / SEXTANT ~ FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 37 (Barcode: 5060774190395) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1980 - 1983 Released: 2023
This is an archival live album by British Jazz drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist and his sextet called SextantFind albums by this artist, which also included saxophonist Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist, pianist John HorlerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil LeeFind albums by this artist and bassist Paul BridgeFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Brian SmithFind albums by this artist replaces Hastings on one of the recording sessions. The 2CD album, recorded in four different sessions between 1980 and 1983, presents fifteen tracks, six of which were composed by Lee, three by Horler, two are standards, three are by British Jazz composers: Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and finally one is by American composer Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist. The album offers splendid sound quality, which is close to studio recording excellence, and includes an extensive essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist.
Although Tomkins was almost omnipresent on the British Jazz scene since the early 1960, and appears on dozens of seminal albums recorded over the decades, he never released an album as a leader and only one little know album as co-leader – an amazing fact, which is difficult to believe but true nevertheless. Following his death just a few months ago, the wonderful Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label rushed to release this, his first album as a leader, to commemorate his invaluable input into making British Jazz what it is.
The music is, as expected, absolutely brilliant, all within the modern British Jazz mainstream, featuring mostly original compositions by the sextet members, which are highly melodic and beautifully structured.
The members of the sextet, especially Hastings and Lee, had close ties with British Jazz-Rock Fusion and Progressive Rock / Canterbury Scene in the 1970s, being members of CaravanFind albums by this artist / Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist / National HealthFind albums by this artist / Soft MachineFind albums by this artist / GilgameshFind albums by this artist (which also included Tomkins), but the music on this album has no relation to these excursions, being much closer to the work Tomkins experienced with the Don Rendell / Ian Carr QuintetFind albums by this artist or Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist ensembles in the 1960s and early 1970s.
Both the teamwork and the individual performances by the sextet members are absolutely phenomenal, showing great comradeship and mutual respect between the musicians. Horler plays some brilliant piano lines and is the quintessential catalyst, always there with his harmonic support behind the soloists. Lee plays amazing guitar soli and proves again that he deserves way more respect for his unique style and consistency. Hastings / Smith offer the Jazzy core with their solid presentations of the themes and inspired soloing. Pyne is a trombone virtuoso and his solos are all absolute gems. Bridge, a superb bassist, who sadly passed away prematurely in 2001, keeps the music swinging steadily, working hand in hand with the leader, who is more reliable than a Swiss clock and never ceases to amaze with his inventiveness.
Overall, this is another great addition to the string of releases produced by the Jazz In Britain aficionados, which makes our lives not only more interesting, but also bearable, all things considered. This music is so good it would have been a crime to leave it forgotten, so now when it is available, don’t hesitate even for a split second… This is an absolutely essential piece of British Jazz legacy!
| | Updated: 12/03/2023Posted: 12/03/2023 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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