Record Reviews
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  | KEVIN AYERS ~ THE BBC SESSIONS 1970-1976
HUX 073 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Another splendid release from the BBC vaults presenting the extraordinary work of Canterbury hero Kevin AyersFind albums by this artist, spanning a period from his early Soft MachineFind albums by this artist days and later solo career. The list of musicians playing with Ayers on these sessions looks like a who’s who of early 1970’s Canterbury scene, Prog and Jazz combined: Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, Mike OldfieldFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, Andy SummersFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist, David BedfordFind albums by this artist, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Archie LeggettFind albums by this artist, Ollie HalsallFind albums by this artist & Zoot MoneyFind albums by this artist. The music is as adventurous and quirky as his usual output, with often humorous lyrics and plenty of instrumental passages to spice it all. This material is of immense historical importance and opens many windows to the understanding of the simmering UK musical scene at the time. The sound quality is excellent as usual for all the BBC recorded material. A must to all Canterbury scene fans.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEVIN FIGES ~ YOU ARE HERE
JAZZ NOW 02 (Barcode: 5060774190654) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024
This is an album by British Jazz saxophonist Kevin FigesFind albums by this artist, recorded in a sextet setting with pianist Jim BlomfieldFind albums by this artist, trombonist Raphael ClarksonFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Pete JudgeFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony OrrellFind albums by this artist and bassist Riaan VoslooFind albums by this artist. The album presents fourteen tracks, five of which were composed by Keith TippettFind albums by this artist, five were composed by other British Jazz musicians connected to Tippett throughout his career, and the remaining four short pieces were composed by the members of the sextet.
The album (and the sextet) is a tribute to the music of the legendary British pianist / composer / bandleader Keith Tippett, one of the most important figures of the modern British Jazz. Figes and a few other members of the sextet played with Tippet before his untimely demise in 2020, and the leader directed a series of concerts commemorating Tippett’s music, leading to the creation of this album.
The music is a wonderful tribute to Tippett’s giant contribution to the development of British Jazz since the late 1960s, in which he instigated some of the most revolutionary ideas, ranging from solo piano to Big Band / Orchestral projects, which are still perfectly valid today and remain beacons of ingenuity and genius, sadly not present on the contemporary scene.
The music is splendidly performed and recorded and offers a fond memory of Tippett and other heroes of the British Jazz scene, like Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Harry MillerFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, Dudu PukwanaFind albums by this artist and King CrimsonFind albums by this artist members, all of which made a tremendous contribution at their time. The material selected for this album is a superb review / retrospect glance at the finest moments of the scene.
This album is the second release on the new Jazz NowFind albums on this label label, created by the same people who run the splendid Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label, which produced an impressive series of brilliant albums, which document the development of British Jazz in past decades. Obviously the new label is meant to document contemporary British Jazz.
Overall, this is a wonderful tribute album, which offers refreshed versions of compositions by Keith Tippett and other Godfathers of modern British Jazz, splendidly arranged and performed by Figes and the sextet, a great addition to any British Jazz record collection.
| | Updated: 10/07/2024Posted: 10/07/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUGH HOPPER ~ 1984
CUNEIFORM 104 (Barcode: 045775010427) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1998
1st brilliant solo album by Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, recorded while he was still a member of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist. One of the most important Canterbury scene solo projects at the time and very innovative. Hopper uses his unique fuzz bass as well as multiple overdubs and other avant (then) studio technology to create a powerful statement, based on Orwell`s vision of the future. A classic in every sense!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUGH HOPPER ~ JAZZLOOPS / THE STOLEN HOUR
EXPLORE RIGHTS MANAGEMENT 029 (Barcode: 5060105499616) ~ UK ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2001 - 2004 Released: 2023
This is a reissue / remaster of two albums by the iconic British Jazz / Fusion / Prog / Avant-Garde bassist / multi-instrumentalist / composer Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist. Recorded between 2001 and 2004 the albums present collaborations with many invited musicians, like saxophonists Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Didier MalherbeFind albums by this artist and Simon PicardFind albums by this artist, vocalist / pianist Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, drummers Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, John MarshallFind albums by this artist and many other musicians. “JazzloopsFind albums with this title” presents eleven tracks and “The Stolen HourFind albums with this title” twelve tracks, all originals by Hopper.
The music is mostly Free-Jazz / Improvised Music oriented, but based on steady hypnotic loops and monotonic rhythms, and kept in an Ambient / Industrial mood, creating a highly unusual atmosphere and a drone-like feel. The contrast between the saxophone improvisations and the rhythmic background offer a magic effect, which takes a while to get into, but keeps the listener in constant state of sonic intoxication.
Hopper, who was the omnipresent hero of the Canterbury scene and played in dozens different groups, like Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, IsotopeFind albums by this artist, GilgameshFind albums by this artist, Soft HeapFind albums by this artist and many others and recorded a long list of legendary albums, was also an avid Jazz musician and played with the best British Jazz musicians over the years.
His later years (he died in 2009) were dedicated to recording many projects with different musicians, which were mostly only released posthumously. His collected recorded legacy is truly monumental and he deserves to be remembered as one of the key figures of the British Rock and Jazz Avant-Garde.
Overall, this is a most welcome reissue album, which brings back to life two important albums by Hopper, which were all but gone from the market and deserve to be heard by the young generation of listeners, who most probably never heard of their existence. Warmly recommended for lovers of nontrivial challenging music.
| | Updated: 21/04/2023Posted: 21/04/2023 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUGH HOPPER ~ NUMERO D`VOL
MOONJUNE 014 (Barcode: 692287901424) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2007
Legendary ex-Soft MachineFind albums by this artist bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist is definitely one of the most prolific and restless alumni of that band and his output over the year is nothing but extraordinary. Floating between Improvised Music / Free Jazz, modern Jazz and even Fusion, his dedication to move forward and explore uncharted territory is truly admirable. This new project takes Hopper into a completely new area, which combines Free Improvisation with ambient textures and steady upbeat, creating quite a fascinating and original musical experience. Although the music is completely improvised, it sounds as if pre-composed and more often than not even melodic. Hopper´s partners are saxophonist Simon PicardFind albums by this artist (member of the excellent Canterbury ensemble In CahootsFind albums by this artist led by guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist), keyboardist Steve FranklinFind albums by this artist and drummer Charles HaywardFind albums by this artist. Together they create some extraordinary musical vistas, full of imagination, beauty and inspiration, which yet again prove that music has no boundaries and new possibilities are still out there. Hopper´s many fans need no encouragement to try this out, but I´d recommend this stuff to every Canterbury / Jazz fan, as it definitely covers some uncharted music ground, which is accessible to most music lovers. Fascinating!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUGH HOPPER / BAND ~ ALIVE
BLUEPRINT 150 (Barcode: 604388103225) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1985 - 1987
Soft MachineFind albums by this artist bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist has been quite busy recording with many different musicians and groups besides the SM activities. These live recordings present the Canterbury legend leading a Big Band of Dutch musicians, with whom he toured in that period. This is similar to the late 70`s SM stuff, very jazzy (but not as free as SM) with some basic rock elements showing up beneeth the surface.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUGH HOPPER / BAND ~ CAROUSEL
CUNEIFORM 067 (Barcode: 045775006727) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1993 - 1994 Released: 1995
After several live albums, this is the first studio album by the Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist Band (recorded 1994 - well not entirely: 3 live tracks from 1993 are also included). This band includes European musicians (mostly Dutch) and plays the jazzy side of Hopper`s compositions, with rock undertones. All the musicians are very experienced and the music flows naturally. Interesting compositions and good performances are all one needs to anjoy an album.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HUMI ~ DUNE
MOONJUNE 019 (Barcode: 692287901929) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2007 - 2008 Released: 2008
HumiFind albums by this artist is a duet comprising of legendary British composer / bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and Japanese singer / keyboardist / composer Yumi Hara CawkwellFind albums by this artist. Although Hopper´s illustrious career is full of groundbreaking achievements, this is surely one of his boldest statements. Redefining the role of electric bass as a leading instrument and combining it with electronic devices, Hopper and his partner create a series of musical voyages, partly composed, partly improvised, combining Jazz, Ambient, Prog and Avant-Garde music into a cohesive whole. Although intended for serious music listeners, the music flows fluently and can be enjoyed by most open minded connoisseurs. Sadly this is one of the last recordings by Hopper and his recent demise creates a huge hole in the fabric of British Jazz / Canterbury music scene. Warmly recommended!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ISOTOPE ~ GOLDEN SECTION
CUNEIFORM 273 (Barcode: 045775027326) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2008
Relatively little known and surely deserving more recognition, the British Jazz-Rock Fusion band IsotopeFind albums by this artist, led by guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, recorded just 3 albums between 1974 and 1976, and these were soon out of general circulation. The only live recordings by the band available so far were the BBC sessions on HuxFind albums on this label Records, and therefore this collection of live material is a most welcome addition to the band´s recorded legacy. Recorded between 1974 and 1975, the material captures the second incarnation of the band, which included Boyle on guitar, Laurence ScottFind albums by this artist on keyboards, ex-Soft MachineFind albums by this artist bassist / composer Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist. Percussionist Aureo de SouzaFind albums by this artist was also a member of the band for several months, and the full quintet appears here for the first time on record. The three dates include a Radio Bremen performance (the Radio Bremen is a superb source of material for 1970s British music, second only to the BBC), the only US tour Isotope made in 1975 and an earlier UK recording from 1974. The music includes some of the material recorded on the 2nd Isotope album "IllusionFind albums with this title" and other pieces previously unheard, composed mostly by Boyle and Hopper. For Isotope fans this is an absolute delight, but any fun of the 1970s British Jazz-Rock scene will find this material indispensible.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ISOTOPE ~ ILLUSION
ESOTERIC 2273 (Barcode: 5013929737327) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2011
After playing with Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist and many leading Jazz ensembles, guitarist / composer Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, one of the most innovative and technically brilliant players on the British scene, eventually founded his own quartet, called IsotopeFind albums by this artist. In retrospect, Isotope was one of the finest early British Jazz-Rock ensembles, which played ambitious music and included some of the best players on the scene at the time. But as usual, playing fine music made it difficult to keep the group going for a long time, so after recording three excellent albums and sticking together for a few years, Isotope disappeared into oblivion. This was their 2nd album and the quartet included keyboardist Laurence ScottFind albums by this artist, great bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (Soft MachineFind albums by this artist) and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist (Hopper and Morris played with Boyle in Yamash`ta’s group). The music is brilliant from start to finish, slightly resembling Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, but of course completely original. This is an absolute must to all early British Jazz-Rock connoisseurs!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PHIL MILLER / IN CAHOOTS ~ LIVE 86 - 89
CRESCENT 09 ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1986 - 1989 Released: 2008
Legendary guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist and his In CahootsFind albums by this artist ensemble have been active on the Canterbury / Jazz scene since the 1980s, constantly changing lineups but always producing music of the highest quality. A vehicle for presenting Miller’s intricate and highly sophisticated compositions, the ensemble’s recorded legacy through the years – both studio and live – is a great example of European Jazz. This album presents a series of live recordings from the 1980s with a stellar lineup, which includes Miller – guitar and guitar synthesizer, Elton DeanFind albums by this artist – alto saxophone and saxello, Peter LemerFind albums by this artist and Steve FranklinFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and Fred BakerFind albums by this artist – bass and Pip PyleFind albums by this artist – drums. Most of the music, except one tune by Hopper, Dean and Franklin each, was composed by Miller and is as usual exceptional, as are the performances. This is a reissue of the original edition of this album from 1989, which is now a rare collector´s item. Highly recommended!
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  | POLYSOFT ~ TRIBUTE TO SOFT MACHINE
TRITON 03506 (Barcode: 3426300163301) ~ FRANCE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2002
This fabulous tribute to the music of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist was recorded live at the Parisian club `le triton` and features the French group PolySoftFind albums by this artist and former SM members Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (bass) and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (sax). The ensemble plays a selection on favorite SM tunes from all periods, with skill and imagination. Mostly very jazzy and improvised, but close in spirit to the originals. Highly recommended!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I was put off this album for a long time, because "tributes" are usually pale imitations; but Polysoft have something new and valuable to say about these familiar pieces and of course HH & ED guarantee authenticity
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | 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!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ ALIVE IN PARIS 1970
VOICEPRINT 045 (Barcode: 604388704200) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
Although the early period of the legendary Canterbury band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist is relatively well documented on record, especially in the last decade when many live recordings of the band have been unearthed, cleaned up and released, video material was so far almost completely nonexistent. Therefore if there is a Holy Grail of Canterbury scene, and of course of Soft Machine, this is it! This footage, filmed by French TV at the Theatre de la Musique is not only a stellar visual experience but also a great sonic document due to the theatre´s superb acoustic. The band is at their most creative peak of course and what´s more the quintet lineup here, including Lyn DobsonFind albums by this artist on saxes and flute, existed for a mere few months and is almost undocumented on record. Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and Robert WyattFind albums by this artist are the band´s backbone and of course everybody plays their hearts out in glorious harmony and high-spirited atmosphere. I don´t need to emphasize how great and groundbreaking this music is (as I have done repeatedly so many times already), so let´s just say that this is an essential piece of music history, which deserves a place in any serious music collection.
| | | DVD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ DROP
MOONJUNE 023 (Barcode: 692287902322) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
Australian-born drummer Phil HowardFind albums by this artist stayed with Soft MachineFind albums by this artist just for five months, but his influence on the group´s transition into free improvisation music was tremendous. He recorded just one side of an LP with the group (the first side of "FifthFind albums with this title") and played quite a few gigs in UK and Europe with the band, which included also saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (who brought Howard into Soft Machine as a replacement for the departing Robert WyattFind albums by this artist), keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist and bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist. The European gigs included the legendary appearance at the most prestigious European Jazz Festival at the time, the Donaueschingen Musiktage, organized by Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist.
Howard brought into the quartet a ferocious "wall of sound" technique, which drove the quartet to unprecedented peaks of improvised music, only roughly based on themes stated at the start of every tune, very much in the same pattern as all free jazz, which flourished at the time, following the pioneering explorations of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and many others. Alas Howard´s days in the band were numbered, as the band was waiting for his replacement, John MarshallFind albums by this artist, to finish his previous engagement with Jack BruceFind albums by this artist. Sadly, following his departure from Soft Machine, very little was heard from this immensely talented drummer, which is a great pity. He can be heard on the Elton Dean´s debut solo album "Just UsFind albums with this title" (a must if you don´t have it yet!).
The music included here, all captured live during Soft Machine German tour, which followed the festival appearance, is a premiere example of their immense quality at that time, delivering some of European Jazz mightiest moments, definitely something that can be enjoyed not only by the dedicated fan base, but also by every Modern Jazz lover the world over. This is s brilliant document, which deserves slow and careful digestion with saliva drooling from one´s mouth, sure more than once. God bless the invention of a sound recorder!
| | Updated: 01/02/2016Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ FACELIFT
VOICEPRINT 233 (Barcode: 604388306725) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2002
Any previously unreleased material by the seminal British band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist is always a great source of joy to the band´s many fans all over the world, even if similar material exists on other studio and live recordings. By the time this live recording was made, the band, which comprised of saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, made a dramatic transition from their initial psychedelic period into Jazz-Rock Fusion, with often bordered on Free Jazz. This recording, from April 1970, was made just prior to the band entering the studio to record their masterpiece "ThirdFind albums with this title" and following their six-night residency at the prestigious Ronnie Scott´s club in London. They were at one of their musical peeks, having played the material included on this album for quite some time, which of course allowed them to stretch out and take risks, as well as re-invent the music at a greater rate of freedom that is usually possible with new pieces. This explains why several of the pieces are expanded to last well over 10 minutes and one even over 20 minutes. Most of the music was composed by Ratledge, with Hopper contributing a few of his own pieces and one piece by Wyatt. There is no doubt that this was a very special night, as the level of interplay and inspiration is truly extraordinary, with some of the most adventurous improvisations ever achieved by these illustrious musicians. While playing this music, the band was literally changing the shape of music as known up to that point, clearly pointing towards uncharted territory. Definitely one of the great moments of early British Jazz, not be missed by anybody interested in Soft Machine or the period´s music. This album is often criticized for its poor sound quality; indeed it suffers from the primitive recording source, but honestly I think that every minute of this music is worth more that almost anything else recorded at the time, so poor sound quality or not, this is a treasure!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ GRIDES
CUNEIFORM 230/231 (Barcode: 045775023021) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2006
The Soft MachineFind albums by this artist archives keep offering new treasures on a pretty regular basis, taking the fans by surprise time after time. This album offers a live recording in Amsterdam from October 1970 (with the classic lineup Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist and Robert WyattFind albums by this artist), shortly after the release of ThirdFind albums with this title. The material includes some of the material from Third and early versions of material from the forthcoming FourthFind albums with this title. As usual with SM, although we all heard these tunes before, they do play them quite dramatically differently each time, so there is no fear of redundancy. In addition, this time the sound quality is truly great. As if the newly discovered materiel was no enough, this release also includes a 20 minutes DVD filmed in 1971 by Radio Bremen (at the same day when the VirtuallyFind albums with this title album material was recorded, but a different set). This is the first ever SM DVD material, which of course should make all the SM fans ecstatic. Essential to all SM fans and Canterbury aficionados!
| | | CD+DVD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ LIVE AT THE HENIE ONSTAD ART CENTRE 1971
REEL RECORDINGS 014/015 (Barcode: 775020975323) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2009
This a live recording by the seminal UK band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist recorded in Norway at the very creative peak of the band´s outstanding career. Saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist perform two continuous, mostly improvised sets, each about 45 minutes long, which makes this particular album different from all the other Soft Machine live albums, where the band performs compositions previously recorded in the studio. In addition, the perfect sound quality of this recording, which was done professionally, is undoubtedly the best ever Soft Machine live recording sound captured on tape. In addition, this release is accompanied by a CD-ROM audio-visual documentary about the band and the circumstances of this recording, which is superbly done and highly educative. In short this is truly an outstanding musical document of great value, not only to the band´s fan base but to all enthusiast of British Jazz as well. A must and a feast to our ears!
| | | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SEVEN (REMASTERED)
SONY BMG 768729 (Barcode: 828768729229) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007
7th album, which was the last recording Soft MachineFind albums by this artist did for CBSFind albums on this label. Following the release of SixFind albums with this title veteran SM member Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist announced his departure from the group. Hopper was not happy with the direction the group was taking, namely the less adventurous and jazz oriented Jazz-Rock, which dominated Six. Being a bold innovator and restless explorer, Hopper’s idea of well-organized and structurally sound music was unacceptable, and he decided to leave. For the third time in a row the band enlisted to their ranks a replacement from the band NucleusFind albums by this artist, this time the bass player Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist (who already participated on FourthFind albums with this title and FifthFind albums with this title). He switched from his acoustic bass to a six-string bass guitar and his integration into the band was completely smooth and natural, as he was already familiar with John MarshallFind albums by this artist and Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist. The music, written mostly by Jenkins and Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, is more Jazz-Rock than ever, with rather shorter, but extremely well structured and perfectly executed pieces. The keyboards duets and quirky rhythm patterns are the familiar Jazz-Rock devices used, similar to other groups which played similar music at the time. Contrary to the general opinion, which states that this album is not as strong as the previous SM releases, I personally completely disagree and consider this to be as essential as all the other CBS recordings with some of the best and most memorable SM tunes on it. After this album SM switched to the Harvest label, recording several Jazz-Rock albums featuring guitar players Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist and later John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist, all of which are still waiting for proper remaster. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SIX (REMASTERED)
SONY BMG 687591 (Barcode: 828768759127) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2007
6th album by Soft MachineFind albums by this artist released originally as a double LP. Soon after recording FifthFind albums with this title, SM was facing more personnel changes with Elton DeanFind albums by this artist leaving the band to pursue his free jazz vocation. His replacement was another ex-NucleusFind albums by this artist founding member Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist. Jenkins was a classically trained musician with exceptional gift for composing beautiful melodies. In addition he was also a multi-instrumentalist and therefore was able not only to replace Dean on saxes, but he also played beautiful oboe and both acoustic and electric piano. The addition of Jenkins was a decisive factor for SM, adding to the band for the first time a touch of professionalism and virtuosity, this in addition to the great spontaneity and vitality the group always possessed. Jenkins turned out to be the group’s most prolific writer and more than half of the music on the new album was his contribution. The new lineup started touring immediately after Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist completed the recording sessions for his first album (1984Find albums with this title) and some of the shows were recorded with the intention of serving as part of the new album (first LP of the set). In late 1972 the group recorded the studio material for the album (second LP of the set), returning to the format of longer and more complex tunes. The music on this album is quite different from what SM played on ThirdFind albums with this title, FourthFind albums with this title and Fifth: it is much more melodic and atmospheric and of course not as much free jazz oriented. In fact this is one of the most essential examples of Jazz-Rock Fusion ever recorded, a direction SM was to follow from now on. This beautiful new remaster improves the original sound tremendously. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ THE SOFT MACHINE (EXPANDED EDITION)
POLYDOR 532050 (Barcode: 600753205051) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2009
1st album by the seminal UK band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, which would in time become an icon of the Psychedelic era and a founding stone of the Canterbury genre. Guitarist Kevin AyersFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist were some of the most talented, inspired and prophetic musicians, who found themselves in the midst of a musical (and social) revolution, which would inspire generations to come. This timeless masterpiece is molten gold (or mercury) of ingenuity in every respect, full of zany ideas, typical British humor and futuristic (at that time) musical approach, based on freedom of expression and telepathic communication and interplay. Although "song based", this music was completely unconventional, in many respects ridiculing the popular music of the time. Ratledge brought a strong Jazzy feel into the mix, which would soon after dominate the group´s direction during the 1970s, causing Ayers to leave the group after this album was recorded and the tour that followed. Ratledge and Wyatt would recruit bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (who was the band´s roadie at the time) and the new lineup would record their second album and another masterpiece. In retrospect this music still sounds too good to be true and lost nothing of its power and inspiration. Only a handful of albums can feel that fresh over 40 years after they have been recorded, but this one is surely one of them. This new remastered and expanded edition adds two ultra-rare tracks recorded by the band a year earlier. An absolutely essential album and a must!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ THIRD (EXPANDED EDITION)
SONY BMG 687293 (Barcode: 828768729328) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
3rd album by Soft MachineFind albums by this artist, originally released as a double LP. Although basically a trio at this point (Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist & Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist) they use a horn-section to expand the sound of the band, which includes among others Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (soon to be a full time SM member) and Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist (brother of Pye HastingsFind albums by this artist from CaravanFind albums by this artist). The music is of course one of the most pivotal recordings of the era and widely accepted as one of the greatest epics of Prog and Canterbury music, with brilliant improvisations and incredibly strong writing. Almost entirely instrumental, with Wyatt`s occasional scatting, this album marks the band’s transition from early psychedelic pop / rock to Jazz-Rock and later eventually to free jazz. With constantly changing lineup the band managed in the span of just a few months, between late 1969 and early 1970, to create an entirely new genre in itself, as nothing else done by any other band would ever sound similar to Soft Machine (of that period). This music is as revolutionary and groundbreaking as the stuff Miles DavisFind albums by this artist was creating at the time on the other side of the pond, and equally brilliant. The beautiful new edition adds a full bonus CD, which contains a live recording at the Royal Alert Hall (August 1970), done by the BBC (a trademark of sonic quality), previously unreleased. An absolute masterpiece, beyond essential!
| | | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE LEGACY ~ STEAM
MOONJUNE 016 (Barcode: 692287901622) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
Following the death of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist veteran member Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, the Soft Machine LegacyFind albums by this artist drafted a younger, but well established British saxophonist Theo TravisFind albums by this artist into their ranks to continue the band´s path and quest to commemorate the original Soft Machine tradition. This, their 3rd album, includes also the band veterans John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist on guitar, Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist on bass and John MarshallFind albums by this artist on drums, playing a mixture of new compositions and older Soft Machine material, freely switching between Jazz-Rock Fusion and freely improvised passages, always with gusto and incredible musicianship. Travis, although in an incredibly tough spot to follow the great Elton Dean legacy (a legacy inside a legacy so to speak) does a fabulous job and fits in as if he was always there, which is of course nothing short of a miracle. There is hardly any need to tell people how good this music is; anybody familiar with these musicians knows that their "no bullshit" attitude has been their motto for years, so just lay back and enjoy! Absolute must for every Soft Machine fan and hopefully an ear opener for the younger generation, less familiar with the veterans.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT WORKS ~ ABRACADABRA IN OSAKA
MOONJUNE 112 (Barcode: 692287911225) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2021
This is an archival album documenting a live concert by the short-lived British quartet Soft WorksFind albums by this artist, comprising of ex-Soft MachineFind albums by this artist members: saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist (who also plays Fender Rhodes here), guitarist Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. The music was captured during the group’s tour in Japan in 2003. The 2CD album presents eleven tracks, some of which were originally composed for the group’s only studio album “AbracadabraFind albums with this title”, and others which belong to the classic Soft Machine repertoire.
With tracks running on average over the ten-minutes mark, the music is everything the listener familiar with Soft Machine stuff might expect, i.e. long instrumental jams, featuring extensive improvisations by Dean and Holdsworth, superbly supported by the rhythm section. As a result, the music constantly swings like a pendulum between Jazz (Dean) and Fusion (Holdsworth), with the rhythm section swinging on its own right.
Probably the most impressive are the solo parts played by Holdsworth, who obviously feels unconstrained by any time limit obligations and psychological pressures, and simply pours his heart out, producing some of the best guitar oriented Fusion moments ever. I always thought that Holdsworth was one of the tragic figures on the guitar arena in many respects. He was simply too talented for his own good, never actually managing to create the music he really wanted to, from the earliest days of his career and to the very end of his life. His studio recordings are all very far from what he really had to say and as a member of group efforts he simply never found a team that could march his stratospheric imagination, which always soared to the stars. This album probably captures some of his best playing ever, like what I remember when he used to play in dinky pubs around London, completely relaxed sitting a couple of feet away from his audience.
Although there is a lot of open space in this music, with pretty wild improvisation around, the music stays well organized for the duration, and eschews the Free Jazz idiom, which might have disrupted the connection with the audience. Complex and challenging – yes, but never chaotic, would be the best description of these proceedings.
Overall this is a wonderful document of this particular chapter in the long Soft Machine family tree history, which is of course fascinating and absolutely worthy of exploring. Thanks to Leonardo PavkovicFind albums by this artist, the one-man musical army who made it all possible at the time as a tour organizer and now as the owner of the MoonJuneFind albums on this label label, which released this music on record. Pavkovic tells the story behind the music in the album’s booklet, but the story of his collected activities can fill a huge volume, hopefully to be properly written. Proud to be your Friend, Amigo!
| | Updated: 25/04/2021Posted: 25/04/2021 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT WYATT ~ DONDESTAN (REVISITED)
DOMINO 44 (Barcode: 5034202204428) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1991 - 1998 Released: 2008
6th album by Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, which has a rather convoluted history: the album was recorded in 1991 (making it in fact Wyatt´s 5th album) and released at the time, but seven years later Wyatt remixed the album completely from the original tapes, following his disappointment with the original (haphazard) mix, which became sort of obsolete – hence the "revisited" in the title. Musically the album starts an uninterrupted streak of brilliant works, continued to this very day, with Wyatt finally finding a perfect balance between his extraordinary musical approach and political agenda. Wonderfully supported by his wife´s (Alfreda BengeFind albums by this artist) poetry used in addition to his own more politically oriented lyrics, balancing the radicalism, and musically supported by extraordinary musicians like former Soft MachineFind albums by this artist bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist, who also contributes one composition. Wyatt aims straight to the listener´s heart here, no prisoner taken. Lyrical at times, bitter and angry at others, he is always himself, delivering those heartbreaking vocals the way only he can do. His musical ideas never cease to amaze and overall this is a minor masterpiece, which definitely deserves repeated listening.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT WYATT ~ SOLAR FLARES BURN FOR YOU
CUNEIFORM 175 (Barcode: 045775017525) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 - 2003 Released: 2003
Any new release bringing out historical material by Robert WyattFind albums by this artist is extremely important, and this one really deliveres. It includes two BBC sessions from 1972 and 1974, as well as a previously unheard and little known 1973 soundtrack for a short experimental film, two recent works with old collaborator Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and finally a 2003 home demo of a new song that did not end up on Robert´s release CuckoolandFind albums with this title. Additionally, this CD includes a Quicktime movie of that 1973 film. A package that surely is a must for any Wyatt fan.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STOMU YAMASH`TA ~ FREEDOM IS FRIGHTENING
ESOTERIC 2087 (Barcode: 5013929718722) ~ JAPAN ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2008
Japanese percussionist / composer Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist settled in England in 1972, after studying music in his native country and later in the USA. He worked mainly as a composer for theatre music, but his signing as a recording artist for the Island label brought his work to the attention of a wider audience, which later led to him forming the group East WindFind albums by this artist, which recorded this exceptional album. Combining forces with some of the best British musicians at the time, the band included Yamash`ta on drums and percussion, his wife Hisako Yamash`taFind albums by this artist on violin, guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist (IsotopeFind albums by this artist), keyboardist Brian GascoigneFind albums by this artist, and bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (Soft MachineFind albums by this artist). The music is a wonderful fusion of Western and Far Eastern elements as well as many cross genre excursions, from atmospheric ambient to high spirited Jazz-Rock Fusion. Although Yamash`ta became mostly known for the "GoFind albums with this title" recordings, which were done a few years later, this is truly his most remarkable album recorded for Island and the one that withstands the test of time most adamantly. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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