Record Reviews
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  | AMALGAM ~ PLAY BLACKWELL & HIGGINS
FMR 146 (Barcode: 649849982353) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2004
2nd album by the superb British Jazz / Improvised Music ensemble AmalgamFind albums by this artist, one of the precursors of British / European Free Jazz scene in the late 1960s and 1970s, founded by saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist. On this album the lineup is a trio, including the legendary drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist and bassists Ron HermanFind albums by this artist and Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, Amalgam play tribute to two almost anonymous heroes of the American Jazz revolution, drummers Ed BlackwellFind albums by this artist and Billy HigginsFind albums by this artist, both of which played on the pioneering recordings by Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist and contributed their share in expanding the Jazz horizons. The music is recorded live and both extended compositions included here are by Stevens. This album was originally released on the tiny independent AFind albums on this label label, owned by Watts, and was unavailable for many years, which is now rectified by this CD issue. The performances are inspired and fiery, proving how advanced the British scene was at the time. Watts´ saxophone work summarizes the development of the instrument in the hand of geniuses like Coleman, Albert AylerFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. Overall this is yet another example of the wonderful forces at work during a most illustrious period in British Jazz. A true classic of the genre and a must for any Free Jazz / Improvised Music buff!
| | | CD-R 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AMALGAM ~ PRAYER FOR PEACE
FMR 096 (Barcode: 649849981417) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2002
Legendary debut album by the superb British Jazz / Improvised Music ensemble AmalgamFind albums by this artist, one of the precursors of British / European Free Jazz scene in the late 1960s and 1970s, founded by saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist and including the legendary drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist. Both Watts and Stevens were also founding members of the Spontaneous Music EnsembleFind albums by this artist (SME), which was in some respect the alter ego of Amalgam, whereas SME concentrated on freely Improvised Music, Amalgam used more structured themes, mostly pre-composed, as the basis for their expanded Jazz improvisations. In many respects Amalgam and SME lineups, musical directions and intentions overlapped and the collective recorded legacy of these two groups is an icon of some of the most daring and wonderfully adventurous music ever recorded. This initial lineup of Amalgam was a trio, including the superb bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, who is replaced on the title track of this album by another British bass legend Barry GuyFind albums by this artist. The album was originally released on the TransatlanticFind albums on this label label and for many years was on of the most sought-after Jazz collector´s items. The music is absolutely stunning from start to finish and what makes this album so special is the inclusion of three versions of the same tune ("Judy´s Smile"), so brilliantly different from each other, that they are a classic example of the gift of improvisational ability. An absolute classic of the genre and a must for any Free Jazz / Improvised Music buff!
| | Updated: 11/04/2025Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEIL ARDLEY ~ A SYMPHONY OF AMARANTHS
DUSK FIRE 107 (Barcode: 5065001032189) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2012
This is the criminally overdue reissue of the second album by British Jazz composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist, which also was the second part of his great trilogy, which started with "The Greek VariationsFind albums with this title" and was followed later by "Kaleidoscope Of RainbowsFind albums with this title". It is one of the great gems of the revolutionary British Jazz, which developed in the Golden Decade (1965-1975) and changed to face of music as we know it.
Influenced by Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist and Gil EvansFind albums by this artist, Ardley was the creator of the innovative Big Band / Orchestral sound, which was one of the magic ingredients of the new British Jazz at the time. Although based on the compositional ideas of Ellington and Evans, Ardley managed to push them way forward into an amalgam with contemporary European Classical music, early atmospheric / ambient music and other elements, creating unique orchestral soundscapes. As the musical director, resident arranger and conductor of the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist), Ardley had at his disposal the crème de la crème of the British Jazz players, and quite naturally he used them to record his own projects as well.
The list of the protagonists behind this recording is of truly epic proportions and includes such luminaries as trumpeters Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, trombonist Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Don RendellFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and Dave GellyFind albums by this artist (who also wrote the informative liner notes for this reissue), pianists Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist and Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. The only one of its kind Ivor CutlerFind albums by this artist recites a famous nonsense poem and the divine Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist sings Ardley´s music accompanying three classic poems, his first adventure with vocal music.
Overall the album presents a wondrous splendor of musical ideas, marvelously executed by the musicians involved, creating together one of the most beautiful examples of creativity and intelligence, which were the chief ingredients of the music created by Ardley time and again. As an album, this is one of the very few examples of musical perfection, which set the standards for all the others. It is in every respect as perfect today as it was at the time of its recording.
A curious point about this album is the fact that this was the first ever recording to be funded by a grant from the Art Council, which supported a plentitude of great musical projects in the years to come. The album was produced by the legendary Denis Preston, who was in charge of recording a myriad of brilliant early British Jazz albums and without whom the this great music might have never been captured for posterity. The reissue is brilliantly remastered and sounds absolutely spectacular.
This is an unconditional, absolute essential piece of music!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | NEIL ARDLEY / NEW JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ ON THE RADIO: BBC SESSIONS 1971
DUSK FIRE 115 (Barcode: 5065001032516) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is a wonderful archival album from the seemingly bottomless vault of the BBC recordings, which presents two sessions led by British composer / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. The first session (six tracks) presents the full glory of the New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. NJOFind albums by this artist) led and conducted by Ardley and the second session (one track) presents a suite-like composition performed by a small Jazz ensemble, which also includes a string section and electronics. The lineup of the New Jazz Orchestra includes the crème de la crème of the British Jazz players at the time: trumpeters Nigel CarterFind albums by this artist, Bud ParkesFind albums by this artist, Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonists Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, Robin GardnerFind albums by this artist and Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, tuba player Dick HartFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Don RendellFind albums by this artist, Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, Dave GellyFind albums by this artist and Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and percussionist / vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist. The small ensemble includes several NJO members and also features bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and the man in charge of the electronic sounds Keith WinterFind albums by this artist.
For listeners familiar with the NJO recordings the music presented here will not be unanticipated, as it follows the pattern presented on their studio recordings, which is based on intricate and lavish orchestral arrangements and excellent solos by the orchestra members. The live sound and the raw power of the twenty piece orchestra are of course irresistible and illustrate the supremacy of orchestral music over small ensembles as far as the scale of possibilities is concerned. The orchestra performs two compositions by the lamented pianist / composer Mike TaylorFind albums by this artist, who was already deceased when this music was recorded. Another pleasant surprise is the inclusion of a composition by the legendary Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who played in the earlier lineup of the orchestra. The presentation of the tunes by the no less legendary Humphrey LytteltonFind albums by this artist is the proverbial cherry on the top.
The suite-like piece marks the beginning for Ardley´s interest in electronic music, which started when he met Keith Winter a year before this music was recorded. His future recording will feature synthesizers of course but this early, both technologically and conceptually, meeting between electronic and acoustic sounds is truly fascinating and innovative, especially since it also features a string section.
Overall this album is an invaluable historical document of the time and of the British Jazz history, and well deserved thanks go to Peter MuirFind albums by this artist, the man behind the Dusk FireFind albums on this label / Market SquareFind albums on this label labels and to Dave Gelly for the informative liner notes and his first hand experiences. This is an absolute must to all British Jazz connoisseurs, and in fact to all Jazz lovers around the world, especially the young musicians, who should be aware of how much can be learned from music made in the past. Not to be missed!
| | Updated: 23/05/2018Posted: 31/05/2017 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GORDON BECK ~ EXPERIMENTS WITH POPS
ART OF LIFE 1001 (Barcode: 804640100126) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2001
Pianist / composer Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist is one of the true forefathers of modern British and European Jazz; a pioneer and revolutionary in every sense and a giant musician, who managed to free himself from the boundaries imposed by the American Jazz tradition and take the music a step further to a new sphere. What is even more remarkable and amazing is the fact that in contrast to most British and European musicians, who took their emancipation from the rigors of the past towards Free Jazz and Improvised Music, Beck remained firmly within the seemingly “mainstream” form, playing melodically and in strict time, and yet so much “out there” that for people who are able to hear the difference it’s truly staggering. Beck first came to prominence when he joined the group led by British Jazz legend Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist in 1962 and remained with him for several years as his regular pianist, performing and recording some of the most remarkable albums in the British Jazz history. Since 1967 Beck started to record as a leader and his trio became the “house band” of the famous Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist’s London club. By the end of the 1960s he took part in the development of the British Jazz-Rock Fusion, playing with Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist in the European Rhythm MachineFind albums by this artist and later with NucleusFind albums by this artist. He became increasingly involved with other musicians from the European scene, especially with many French Jazz players (an association that thrives to these very days). His extensive discography accumulated over the years, both as leader and sideman, is a formidable body of work, which stands out as one of the most consistently excellent and creative. This album was Beck’s second (out of three) release on the tiny independent Major MinorFind albums on this label label, which in time became one of the most sought after British Jazz collector’s items. For the recording Beck expanded his trio (Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist – bass and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – drums) to a quartet, with the addition of no other that guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, known at the time as “Johnny”. Apart from the fact that this is one of the very few early McLaughlin recordings, and therefore of immense historical value, the entire quartet is probably one of the strongest and most extraordinary European ensembles, pioneering the European approach of collective playing. McLaughlin’s brilliant arpeggios, Oxley’s prophetic time keeping away from time, Clyne’s innovative bass explorations and Beck’s flights all over the keyboard collectively create an new amalgam of sounds, taking the music to a new dimension, previously unexplored. How ironic, considering that the material consists entirely from Pop songs popular at the time (hence the album’s title), but in the hands of these players the music becomes truly experimental, as promised by the album’s title. The album’s producer Ray HorricksFind albums by this artist writes in the original liner notes: “This could be the most creative Jazz quartet album ever recorded in Europe… previous quartet recordings in London, or on the Continent, and including the best, have consisted of a rhythm section accompanying a leading soloist; whereas this one features a genuine collective development along lines which no other group, except Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist’s in America, has yet proceeded”. How perceptive and prophetic… Kudos to Paul KohlerFind albums by this artist of Art Of LifeFind albums on this label Records for bringing this timeless masterpiece back to circulation. This music, 40 years after it was recorded, sounds better and more exciting than most of what one hears in contemporary Jazz. Absolutely essential!
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  | GORDON BECK ~ GYROSCOPE
ART OF LIFE 1003 (Barcode: 804640100324) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2002
Pianist / composer Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist, one of the true forefathers of modern British and European Jazz, has been a source of inspiration and musical joy to Jazz connoisseurs since the 1960s. His formidable technique and more importantly overwhelming musicality are completely unique and unrivaled. This, his 4th recording as a leader, deserves a special notice for many reasons. Stylistically it is somewhat atypical to Beck’s usual output, as it marks his exploration of “free form” Jazz, which was enjoying a period of unparalleled prosperity in Britain at the time this album was recorded, with momentous recordings by other British piano giants like Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, Keith TippettFind albums by this artist and others. However, in Beck’s case the “free form” remains somewhat tamed by his immense love of melody, thus creating one of the most formidable examples of early European “free form”, which even the most conservative Jazz listener can easily savor. This is Beck’s genius, but the credit must also go to his two partners: bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The trio plays here in complete unity, with telepathic interplay and cohesiveness. Clyne is a monster player, incredibly melodic and with a sublime sense of rhythm and Oxley is a complete genius, the most intelligent and technically proficient drummer to come out of the British Isles. This is a marvelous opportunity to hear Oxley’s work at the time he was still playing “time”, although of course in his very special way of doing so, with the “time” being felt rather that actually played, since he is all over his kit doing stuff that is not recommended to be tried at home. This album was originally released on the tiny MorganFind albums on this label Records (owned by the famous Morgan Recording Studios in London) and disappeared from the shelves soon after, becoming one of the British Jazz most sought after collector’s items. The reissue on Art Of LifeFind albums on this label brings back to life a masterpiece of immense importance, which is an essential piece of the complex musical puzzle created in Britain by the end of the 1960s. I can’t imagine any serious British / European Jazz fan not having this momentous recording in their collection. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GORDON BECK ~ JUBILATION!: TRIOS, QUARTETS, AND SEPTETS IN SESSION 1964-1984
TURTLE 501 (Barcode: 5013929580107) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 - 1984 Released: 2018
This is an archival release collecting live recordings made by various ensembles led by the seminal British Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist, one of the key figures of the revolutionary British Jazz movement of the 1960s, who died in 2011. The recordings present Beck in different settings, from solo piano to a septet, spanning two crucial decades in which Beck and the entire British Jazz scene metamorphosed from a copycat of American Jazz to a bold, adventurous and pioneering musical movement with its own values and aesthetics, leading the rest of Europe towards the same process of emancipation.
On the recordings included in this release Beck is accompanied by the crème de la crème of the British Jazz heroes; bassists Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist and Mick HuttonFind albums by this artist, drummers Johnny ButtsFind albums by this artist, Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist and Steve ArguellesFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist and Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. Of the twenty eight pieces performed, only three are standards and the rest are original compositions by Beck.
The music moves in a multidimensional space-time continuum, between traditional American Jazz and modern European Jazz, between standards and original compositions and between solo piano and ensemble playing, but always beautifully focused on Beck´s superb feel of melody and rhythm and his exquisite perception of harmony.
The trio recordings, which open the first of the three CDs included in this Box Set, present a transition, which presents the quantum jumps separated from each other by two years gaps (1964-1966-1968), by which Beck and the trio move from a Bill EvansFind albums by this artist inspired swing perfection to a much more open, almost free playing, emphasized mostly by the change of the drummer from Butts to Oxley, one of the most important Jazz drummers of all time. By the mid 1970s the trio will be brought to perfection with the inclusion of Mathewson, and rechristened to MOBFind albums by this artist (Mathewson / Oxley / Beck) which can be heard on the second CD.
The septet recordings, which take the rest of the first CD, are rather atypical in Beck´s career, as he preferred small ensembles, show Beck´s arranging skills, which he was able to perfect as the resident composer / arranger for the Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist´s all-star band, which included six of the seven members of the septet (John SurmanFind albums by this artist is the missing one).
The latest (chronologically) recordings present a quintet session, which is led by the mature musician Beck has become in the meantime, are presented on the third CD. Beck´s solo material is presented on the second and third CDs.
Overall the Box Set is full of magnificent music, diverse stylistically, but always perfectly executed, which presents a portrait of a great Artist. Considering that all these recordings are previously unreleased, this in an absolute treasure chest and a historic document of the outmost importance. All the recordings were beautifully remastered and offer a first class listening experience.
The Box Set, which was released by the reanimated TurtleFind albums on this label Records, includes an extensive booklet written by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist, which is intelligent, informative and well researched, a true model for what all releases of this kind should offer those who buy the product.
Absolutely essential to all British / European Jazz connoisseurs!
| | Updated: 16/02/2019Posted: 15/02/2019 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | IAN CARR DOUBLE QUINTET ~ SOLAR SESSION
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 25 (Barcode: 5060774190227) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by British trumpeter / composer / bandleader / author Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which presents a radio broadcast of a live session, recorded in October of 1970. The lineup is a tentet (or double quintet), which consists of Top British Jazz musicians of the time, some of which were members of Carr’s band NucleusFind albums by this artist at the time and other were invited to record the Nucleus third album “Solar PlexusFind albums with this title”: trumpeter Harold BeckettFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Brian SmithFind albums by this artist and Tony RobertsFind albums by this artist, bass clarinetist Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist, percussionist Chris KaranFind albums by this artist and finally synthesizer (VCS3) player Keith WinterFind albums by this artist.
The album presents five tracks and the total playing time is only twenty-six minutes, which makes it rather an EP than a full CD. Perhaps with some patience more Ian Carr’s archival material might have been discovered to make this a more significant release, which of course does not undermine the value of the material included herein. The sound quality of this material is quite flat and a proper remaster might have added some glamour.
This session was recorded shortly before the recording of “Solar Plexus” commenced, and includes abridged versions of most of the material that was eventually included on that album, which in today’s terms would have been called a “sneak preview”. The lineup misses the great Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, who took part in the recording of the “Solar Plexus” album, playing on some tracks, alongside Beckett, who played on the other tracks.
The music, as wonderful as it is, appears somewhat hesitant and slightly “undercooked” in comparison to the future album’s versions, which makes this release slightly less essential than most of the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label releases so far, but for Carr / Nucleus completists is probably essential.
Overall this album is definitely worth investigating, although does not add anything highly significant to Ian Carr’s recorded legacy as such. As usual kudos to the label for digging this material up.
| | Updated: 22/06/2021Posted: 22/06/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE COOPER ~ OH REALLY?! / DO I KNOW YOU? / TROUT STEEL / PLACES I KNOW / THE MACHINE GUN CO.
BGO 1371 (Barcode: 5017261213716) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion
Recorded: 1968 - 1972 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the first five albums by the British guitarist / vocalist / songwriter Mike CooperFind albums by this artist. The first album was originally released on PyeFind albums on this label Records and the other four on the subsidiary DawnFind albums on this label Records. This remastered edition adds also three bonus tracks released originally on singles.
The first two albums present Cooper playing Blues / Folk / Country oriented material, mostly self-penned, on which he accompanied himself on acoustic guitar. On the second album he was joined by the legendary bassist Harry MillerFind albums by this artist and a female vocalist on a few tracks.
However, on the next three albums – the last two of which were recorded during the same session and were intended initially to be released as a double album – he is joined by a dreamy team of the crème de la crème of British Jazz musicians at the time, which includes arranger Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, Geoff HawkinsFind albums by this artist, Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist, and Tony CoeFind albums by this artist, pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, bassists Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist and Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist, vocal Diva Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and many others, a truly unprecedented gathering.
Those albums are dominated by Cooper´s idiosyncratic songwriting, guitar playing and singing, and still deeply rooted in the Blues, but the instrumental parts offer some blood-curdling goodies, which no British Jazz fan wants to miss.
Considering how obscure and impossible to find these albums are this monumental reissue is a true godsend, done in the best tradition of BGOFind albums on this label Records´ mission to unearth music that should be given another chance.
Absolutely not to be missed!
| | Updated: 02/09/2020Posted: 01/09/2020 | CD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOB DOWNES / OPEN MUSIC ~ DIVERSIONS
VOCALION 8434 (Barcode: 765387843427) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
Flautist / saxophonist / composer Bob DownesFind albums by this artist was one of the pioneers of the British free-form Jazz. Apart from leading his own groups, most notably the Open MusicFind albums by this artist trio presented here, he also played with Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, Keith TippettFind albums by this artist, Ray RussellFind albums by this artist’s Rock WorkshopFind albums by this artist and many others. He was also one of the first musicians to start their own record label, which was called OpenianFind albums on this label, on which this album was originally released. The Open Music trio included, apart from Downes, one of the following bass players: Barry GuyFind albums by this artist, Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, Harry MillerFind albums by this artist and Barre PhillipsFind albums by this artist (the first two are present on this recording) and drummer Denis SmithFind albums by this artist. Downes composed all the music and played mostly various flutes, although he was equally fluent playing the alto saxophone. The music is excellent and truly visionary for the time of the recording. The level of interplay between the trio members is exceptional and the virtuosity of the players is exemplary and the album lost none of its vigor and charm over the years. A great example of early British Free Jazz at its best, suitable for most Jazz listeners, as although highly improvisational, the natural flow of the music makes it easily acceptable to most people. The music on this album was used several times as a part of dance show, with the trio performing live and accompanying the dancers. Free Jazz listeners should definitely try this gem.
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  | GEORGIE FAME ~ THE TWO FACES OF FAME / THE THIRD FACE OF FAME
BGO 708 (Barcode: 5017261207081) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2006
Contrary to popular opinion, British singer / songwriter / keyboardist Georgie FameFind albums by this artist was born to be a Jazz singer. Although his early career developed during the fabulous late 1960s and was mostly visible on the Pop scene, with several hit singles, his albums were another story entirely. Backed up by the cream of the crop of British Jazz musicians, Fame delivered his superbly sensitive vocals with elegance, always spiced with a dash of the typical British humor. Looking at the list of musicians playing on these two albums one can find such names as John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (guitar), Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist (drums), Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist (piano), Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (bass), Peter KingFind albums by this artist (sax), Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Lynn DobsonFind albums by this artist (sax) and many more – a list that reads like a who´s who of the burgeoning late 1960s UK Jazz scene. Fame tackles quite a few vocal standards on these album, many of the great American songbook classics as well as some newer songs by British composers. Overall these two albums are a great example of how great music lasts forever and the 40 years that passed since they were recorded seem to make it even better, given the shape of contemporary music mayhem. Absolutely delightful!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAEL GIBBS ~ REVISITING TANGLEWOOD 63: THE EARLY TAPES
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 24 (Barcode: 5060774190227) ~ UK ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by British trombonist / composer / bandleader Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, which presents two radio broadcasts of live sessions, recorded in May and November of 1970. The lineups of the Orchestra / Big Band (thirteen or sixteen members respectively) consists of Top British Jazz musicians at the time, some of which took part in the recording of the seminal “Tanglewood 63Find albums with this title” album, which was recorded shortly after the second session. The collective personnel includes: trumpeters Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, Nigel CarterFind albums by this artist and Harold BeckettFind albums by this artist, trombonists Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist, Chris PyneFind albums by this artist and Gibbs, tuba player Dick HartFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, Jim PhillipFind albums by this artist and Tony RobertsFind albums by this artist, pianist Mick PyneFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummers John MarshallFind albums by this artist and Clive ThackerFind albums by this artist and finally vibraphonist / percussionist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist.
The album presents seven tracks, four from the first session and three from the second. Those include all five compositions included on the “Tanglewood 63” album. In addition, it also presents “Country RoadsFind albums with this title”, written by Gary Burton and Steve Swallow, which appeared first on the Burton’s 1968 album by the same name, which included a couple of compositions by Gibbs and one co-composed piece by Gibbs and Burton, and which would have to wait for a couple of years to appear on the 1972 Gibbs “Just AheadFind albums with this title” album. The last track is “June The 15, 1967”, which appeared initially on the Burton’s 1967 “Lofty Fake AnagramsFind albums with this title” album, which also included two compositions by Gibbs, including this one, and which would have to wait for forty-two years to appear on the 2012 Gibbs “Back In The DaysFind albums with this title” album.
The music is, as everything Gibbs ever recorded, absolutely heavenly, both as far as the compositions and the performances are concerned. The formidable team of musicians, under his direction, is able to achieve peaks never earlier encountered in British Jazz orchestral music, and these archival recordings are absolutely fascinating, especially when compared to the final version of most of the music included here, recorded on the “Tanglewood 63” album.
So far, this is definitely my favorite release on the new Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label, which does a splendid job digging out treasures from dusty vaults, especially so because this album also offers the best sound quality of all their releases so far. So as usual, hats off for the team behind the label and waiting for more of your gems. A bit more attention to details won’t hurt…
| | Updated: 29/06/2021Posted: 28/06/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TUBBY HAYES ~ COMMONWEALTH BLUES
ART OF LIFE 1016 (Barcode: 804640101628) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 Released: 2005
British Jazz legend Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist was one of the greatest representatives of the genre and also one of the very few British musicians to get US exposure due to his frequent performances there. Although primarily revered for his tenor saxophone playing, he was also a superb flautist and vibraphonist. The bulk of recordings come from the period between mid-1950s to mid-1960s. By late 1960s Hayes became seriously ill and subsequently died (in 1973) at a ridiculously young age of 38. His musical legacy is of immense importance, as it laid the foundations for the European Jazz and its emancipation from the American Jazz tradition. His virtuoso playing and extraordinary sense of improvisation enabled Hayes to extend the be-bop tradition, established by Jazz giants like Charlie ParkerFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, into a new plane with added European sophistication and culture replacing the raw energy and often rage of American Jazz. This album is an extremely important document of Tubby’s magnificent performance, especially so due to the fact that it contains all previously unreleased recordings. The source of the music comes from the famous BBC “transcription service” recordings – a blessed initiative of the BBC to record British Jazz and subsequently broadcast these recordings on the BBC World Service stations around the world. These recordings were pressed on vinyl and distributed worldwide, but never released commercially. The album includes four such sessions, recorded for the Spanish-speaking listeners (see the announcements in Spanish) with his quartet, which includes Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist on piano, Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist on bass and Johnny ButtsFind albums by this artist on drums. The first three sessions are devoted each to a separate instrument and feature Hayes on tenor saxophone, vibraphone and flute. The fourth session features his playing all three instruments, each on a separate track. The recording quality is excellent (as is the remaster) and the result is a magnificent album, which deserves the title of a true classic of the British Jazz. The many fans of Tubby Hayes will find this album to be essential for their collections and it deserves a honorable place in any decent Jazz album collection. Genius at work!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TUBBY HAYES ~ HIP! THE UNTOLD STORY OF TUBBY HAYES` 1965
RHYTHM AND BLUES 080 (Barcode: 5060331752790) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 Released: 2021
This is an archival 2CD album by the iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist. It presents three radio broadcasts, all previously unreleased, all captured in 1965, a year in which no studio recordings by Hayes were made and he did not head a regular ensemble of his own, as a result of his troubled personal life riddled by health and addiction problems. However, when it came to live performances, Hayes, as this album shows, was still the greatest saxophonist active on the British Isles at the time.
CD1 presents a ten tracks broadcast by the Commonwealth Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by Hayes and featuring some of the greatest British Jazz musicians, like trumpeters Shake KeaneFind albums by this artist and Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Bobby WellinsFind albums by this artist and Ronnie RossFind albums by this artist, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist and others. Vocalist Joy MarshallFind albums by this artist appears on three tracks. The Big Band / Orchestra performs three originals by Hayes, including the fabulous “100% ProofFind albums with this title”, which will become the title track of his studio album two years later. Two more British originals are by trumpeter / composer of Jimmy DeucharFind albums by this artist, a regular Hayes’ collaborator. The rest of the material comprises of great arrangements of Jazz standards.
CD2 presents two Hayes’ quartet broadcasts, with pianist Terry ShannonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummers Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist or Ronnie StephensonFind albums by this artist (who also plays on the Orchestra tracks). The last five tracks (second broadcast) offer a somewhat lower sound quality, but the quality of the music is certainly as admirable as the rest of the music on this album.
The accompanying booklet offers an informative essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist, who is the author of the Tubby Hays biography, which of course is worth reading.
Overall, this is a superb piece of British Jazz history, and a splendid reminder of the great talent of one of its most impressive heroes, who sadly left us tragically way to prematurely. Hayes was undoubtedly one of the greatest European saxophonist, and his talent was recognized also on the other side of the pond, which happened rarely. His pioneering ability to combine the Jazz tradition with modernism and even early Avant-Garde Jazz approach, in addition to his superhuman performing skills, makes him a legendary figure, which should be remembered by all.
| | Updated: 17/01/2023Posted: 17/01/2023 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TUBBY HAYES ~ LIVE AT THE FLAMINGO 1958
RHYTHM AND BLUES 092 (Barcode: 5060331753445) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1958 Released: 2023
This is an archival album by the iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist. It presents a previously unreleased live recording at the legendary Flamingo club in London, captured during the early days of Hayes’ career, before he achieved the top rank on the British scene. The music is performed by a formidable octet, with trumpeters Les CondonFind albums by this artist and Stuart HamerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Alan BranscombeFind albums by this artist, Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist and Hayes, pianist Terry ShannonFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummer Bill EydenFind albums by this artist – a band that in fact existed only once for that particular concert. Three additional musicians guest on selected tracks. The album presents nine tracks, seven of which are standards and two are originals, one by Jimmy DeucharFind albums by this artist and another by Hayes.
The accompanying booklet offers an informative essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist, who is the author of the Tubby Hays biography, which of course is worth reading.
The music is of course still mostly in the American Bebop tradition, but clearly shows how the British musicians adopted that tradition and added a very specific “British touch” to it, already at that early stage. The individual performances are nothing short of brilliant and the octet arrangements are clever and sophisticated. The club atmosphere is a reminder why the Flamingo was a place to be in late 1950’s London, when one wanted to hear some great music (and for other less cultural reasons).
The recording is mono, but offers quite reasonable sound quality, which enables everything to be heard properly, even if the drums are sometimes a tad too high in the mix, a small price to pay for the splendid music, which lost nothing of its vitality in the sixty-five years since it was recorded.
Overall, this is a superb piece of British Jazz history, and a splendid reminder of the great talent of one of its most impressive heroes. Hayes was undoubtedly one of the greatest European saxophonist, and his talent was recognized also on the other side of the pond, which happened rarely. His pioneering ability to combine the Jazz tradition with modernism and even early Avant-Garde Jazz approach, in addition to his superhuman performing skills, makes him a legendary figure, which should be remembered by all, especially since he left us tragically way to prematurely.
| | Updated: 24/10/2023Posted: 19/10/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ISOTOPE ~ ISOTOPE
ESOTERIC 2272 (Barcode: 5013929737228) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 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 1st album and the quartet included keyboardist Brian MillerFind albums by this artist (who also wrote most of the music on this album), great bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (NucleusFind albums by this artist) and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist (who 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 |
  | NUCLEUS ~ HEMISPHERES
HUX 078 (Barcode: 682970000787) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2006
Led by trumpeter / composer Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, NucleusFind albums by this artist were not only the most important UK Jazz-Rock ensemble but in fact one of world’s pioneers of the genre. Carr created Nucleus to take the next step in his already well-established Jazz career. During the 1960s Carr was a co leader of the Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian Carr Quintet, one of the best UK modern Jazz ensembles. However by the end of the 1960s Carr felt a need to change his direction and move into the Rock influenced Jazz-Rock Fusion. Following the steps of US pioneers of the genre like Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist and Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and UK ensembles like the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, Carr put together a group of the best players on the UK scene to create Nucleus. The band was an instant success and a revelation, soon to be recognized as the leading force of the newborn genre. The first incarnation of the group included (in addition to Ian Carr who played trumpet and flugelhorn) Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist on electric piano and oboe, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist on tenor and soprano saxophones, Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist on guitar, Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist on bass and John MarshallFind albums by this artist on drums. Between 1970 and 1971 this lineup recorded three fabulous albums: Elastic RockFind albums with this title, We`ll Talk About It LaterFind albums with this title and Solar PlexusFind albums with this title, which belong to the absolute classics of the genre. This album includes two live performances of this incarnation of Nucleus, recorded almost a year apart. The sound quality is truly amazing and the performances are stellar. Most of the material is taken from the a.m. three albums, but previously never released tunes are also included, which makes this album even more important. This is a prime example of European Jazz-Rock at its best, alive and kicking. Absolutely essential listening!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NUCLEUS ~ LIVE AT THE BBC
REPERTOIRE 1410 (Barcode: 4009910141021) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1991 Released: 2021
This is a monumental 13CD archival Box Set by British Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble NucleusFind albums by this artist, founded and led by trumpeter / composer / author / bandleader Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, one of the key figures on the British Jazz scene for five decades from 1960s on. The Box Set collects 28 radio broadcasts recorded between July 1970 and November 1991, an incredible document of the British Jazz history, the development of the genre in general and Jazz-Rock Fusion in particular. Painstakingly collected, organized, remastered / restored, the music is a priceless tribute to one of the most creative bands active in Britain ever. The Box Set includes an informative booklet with an essay written by Roger FarbeyFind albums by this artist.
The Nucleus lineup included over time the absolute Who’s Who of the British Jazz scene, including many of the first generation of players, who revolutionized British Jazz in the late 1960s. Some of the most prominent figures, who played with the ensemble for many years were saxophonist / keyboardist Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist (who apart from Carr plays on almost all the tracks in this Box Set), saxophonist Brian SmithFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist and many others. Many of the ensemble members contributed also their original compositions to the repertoire performed by the ensemble, especially in the early days, with Carr’s compositions dominating the repertoire in the later period.
Although Nucleus, contrary to Farbey’s statement, did not pioneer British Jazz-Rock Fusion as such, the ensemble was one of the key focal points of the genre for many years, even after the genre run out of steam by the mid-1970s. Carr was a prolific composer and Nucleus was for many years the best environment to develop and present his compositions in the most successful way.
As usual with such releases, based on material from the BBC vaults, it is imperative to emphasize the role of the BBC in the development of music in Britain, when it supplied the stable platform for musicians to perform, with the music being broadcast (sometimes worldwide) and eventually archived for posterity. This unmeasurable contribution to British Culture is truly phenomenal.
Considering the fact that the music in this Box Set was taken not only directly from the BBC archives but also from many secondary private sources, often with problematic sound quality, the sonic effect, especially of the early material, is not up to par with today’s standards, but in view of its historic quality is welcome here, although with a slight unease.
Overall, this Box Set is a remarkable effort to document the history of one of the greatest Jazz-Rock Fusion ensembles of all times, and considering the fact that it is mostly previously unreleased, it is a collector’s treasure chest. It is definitely somewhat expensive, but for avid collectors it is worth its weight in gold.
| | Updated: 06/03/2022Posted: 06/03/2022 | CD 13 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON RENDELL / IAN CARR ~ CHANGE IS
BGO 613 (Barcode: 5017261206138) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2004
5th and last album by the seminal Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian CarrFind albums by this artist Quintet, probably the most important British Jazz ensemble in the 1960s, which played a key role in establishing the “British sound” in Jazz, breaking away from the constrains of American Jazz traditionalism. The quintet comprised of brilliant instrumentalists and composers and after playing together for about five years they achieved a telepathic understanding of each other’s mannerisms and preferences, allowing them to perform in unparalleled unison and harmony. Don Rendell on saxophones and flute, Ian Carr on trumpet and flugelhorn, Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist on piano, Dave GreenFind albums by this artist on bass and Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist on drums were together a mean and lean, unstoppable music machine, creating some of the most daring and adventurous Jazz music ever heard.
However, as hinted by the album’s title, by the time this album was recorded the quintet reached the end of its life cycle. Both Garrick and Carr were extremely busy musically, composing and performing music outside the quintet’s frame, with Garrick leading his own ensemble and recording prolifically and Carr founding his own ensemble, the legendary NucleusFind albums by this artist, which was to become the definitive Jazz-Rock Fusion point of reference. Two of the compositions found on this album would soon be recorded as title tracks on albums by Garrick (Cold MountainFind albums with this title) and Nucleus (Elastic DreamFind albums with this title), clear evidence of the fact that the quintet was reaching the end of its days. Another indication of the imminent changes was the fact that the album includes, for the first time, guest musicians who augmented the quintet on several tracks. They were: Mick PyneFind albums by this artist on piano, Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist on bass, Guy WarrenFind albums by this artist on percussion and Stan RobinsonFind albums by this artist on saxophone, musicians who would soon play with the new ensembles formed after the quintet folded.
It is somewhat unfortunate that the following decade would be extremely flourishing for both Carr and Garrick, but Rendell was to slowly step back from the limelight and record only sporadically. But all that aside, the final recording by the Rendell / Carr quintet is a masterpiece of British Jazz in every respect, full of superb compositions and brilliant performances – an album that deserves a honorable position in every serious music collection. Essential!
| | Updated: 28/06/2021Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON RENDELL / IAN CARR QUINTET ~ BBC JAZZ CLUB 1965/66
RHYTHM AND BLUES 064 (Barcode: 5060331752202) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 - 1966 Released: 2020
This is an archival album by the seminal British Jazz quintet co-led by saxophonist / flautist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which also included pianist Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The album presents three BBC sessions, one from 1965 and two from 1966, all together sixteen tracks (and seven short introductions by Rendell or Humphrey LittletonFind albums by this artist). On the first session Colin PurbrookFind albums by this artist replaces Garrick and on the second session Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist replaces Green.
These sessions were recorded around the time the quintet recorded and released their first two albums: “Shades Of BlueFind albums with this title” and “Dusk FireFind albums with this title”, and the second session presents five live versions of the material present on the second album. Most of the material consists of original compositions by Rendell, Carr and Garrick, the last being the most prolific contributor to the quintet’s material. A great tune by Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, another by Pat SmytheFind albums by this artist and a couple of standards are also present.
These sessions show vividly the giant step the quintet made between recording the debut album with Purbrook on piano in 1964, which was almost completely conventional and Bee Bop oriented, and the second album with Garrick on piano recorded in 1965, where the quintet turns into the amazing modern Jazz ensemble passing the equinox which marks the birth of modern British Jazz.
Considering the splendid sound quality of these recordings, the fact that it is the first time they appear on record and that they also include previously never heard material by the quintet, this album is worth its weight in gold, not only to British / European Jazz enthusiasts but all modern Jazz lovers around the world. In view of the relatively limited recorded legacy by this legendary quintet, this stuff is absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 08/07/2021Posted: 06/07/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPLINTERS ~ INCLUSIVITY
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 26 (Barcode: 5060774190258) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2021
This is an archival 3CD album by British Jazz supergroup SplintersFind albums by this artist, which presents two live recordings, both from 1972, the first at the legendary London 100 Club (on CD 1 and 2) and the second from the opening night at the (then) newly opened Grass Roots club (on CD 3). The music was captured on cassettes and was carefully restored to today’s standard as far as possible. The 100 Club material was previously released in part by the Reel RecordingsFind albums on this label label in 2009 as “Split The DifferenceFind albums with this title”, and is here presented in its full form and the Grass Roots material is previously unreleased. The album is released in a lavish LP sized book format, and includes beautiful photographs by Jack KirbyFind albums by this artist and extensive essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist – an obvious work of love and dedication, which is the modus operandi of the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label.
The Splinters collective is truly unique in every sense, but the most striking trait of this ensemble is the meeting of generations, united by the inner urge to express their musical ideas as expressively and unrestrictedly as humanly possible. Three of the protagonists of this session, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist (b. 1926), who appears on CD 1 and 3 only, drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist (b. 1926) and saxophonist Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist (b. 1935) were already British Jazz legends at the time of this recording, with years of experience and established careers to their credit. All were immensely influential on the then growing up generation of the British New Wave of rebellious young players, who wished to emancipate the music they played from the restrictions of strict Jazz forms, patterns and rhythmical uniformity established since the genre´s conception and developed during its first half century in the USA.
Tracey, Seamen and Hayes were the necessary missing link between the Jazz tradition and the gradual but revolutionary development that occurred in British Jazz from the mid-1960s on. Surprisingly, Tracey and Seamen, both older than Hayes, proved to be the more adventurous, shunning from nothing and keeping their sensitivity completely up to date. Tracey fully embraced Free Jazz and Improvised Music and Seamen was active not only in the Jazz area, but also took part in early Jazz-Rock, Rock and even early World-Jazz activities, mainly through his faithful pupil and protégé Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist. Hayes remained somewhat more "conventional", expanding his Bebop approach with some freedom, but remaining firmly within the established parameters. Perhaps the future might have proved differently, but Hayes died prematurely just a year after this music was recorded.
The rest of the "crew" captured here: saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist (b. 1939), who taped this music and was the initiator behind Splinters, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (b. 1930), bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (b. 1937) and drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist (b. 1940), were the (not necessarily chronologically, but definitely spiritually) young Lions spearheading British Jazz into a new direction. The idea behind this session was to provide an open and most importantly completely free of any pre-conceptions environment for the musicians to express their ideas.
Overall, as with much contemporary Jazz at the time, the idea of free flow and mutual respectful listening is the core of creation here. The music consists of long improvised pieces, with no strict melody lines, but full of very "melodic" playing, which makes perfect sense musically. This is group improvisation at its best, full of musical interplay and mutual inspiration respectful of each other´s "moment" and bearing at each particular instant. In many respects this is a classic "textbook" recording, which could be used as a perfect demonstration of what group improvisation really is. As someone must have said sometime: "you can´t plan lovemaking", this music, although unplanned, is a pure work of love. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 07/12/2021Posted: 07/12/2021 | CD 3 Digibook Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPLINTERS ~ SPLIT THE DIFFERENCE
REEL RECORDINGS 013 (Barcode: 775020938328) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
The Canadian Reel Recordings label does it again! Following a series of splendid British Jazz archival releases, which expose many previously unheard musical creations during the Golden Age of British Jazz, this addition to its catalogue is perhaps the most sensational and revealing. Obviously the feverish activity, that characterized this unprecedented period, produced a vast amount of groundbreaking music, which unfortunately was only partially captured on tape. Therefore unearthing another piece of that wonderful puzzle is always exciting and educational.
The SplintersFind albums by this artist collective is truly unique in every sense, but the most striking trait of this ensemble is the meeting of generations, united by the inner urge to express their musical ideas as expressively and unrestrictedly as humanly possible. Three of the protagonists of this session, recorded live at the legendary 100 Club, London´s primary Jazz dungeon for many years, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist (b. 1926), drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist (b. 1926) and saxophonist Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist (b. 1935) were already British Jazz legends at the time of this recording, with years of experience and established careers to their credit. All were immensely influential on the then growing up generation of the British New Wave of rebellious young players, who wished to emancipate the music they played from the restrictions of strict Jazz forms, patterns and rhythmical uniformity established since the genre´s conception and developed during its first half century in the USA.
Tracey, Seamen and Hayes were the necessary missing link between the Jazz tradition and the gradual but revolutionary development that occurred in British Jazz from the mid-1960s on. Surprisingly, Tracey and Seamen, both older than Hayes, proved to be the more adventurous, shunning from nothing and keeping their sensitivity completely up to date. Tracey fully embraced Free Jazz and Improvised Music and Seamen was active not only in the Jazz area, but also took part in early Jazz-Rock, Rock and even early World-Jazz activities, mainly through his faithful pupil and protégé Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist. Hayes remained somewhat more "conventional", expanding his Bebop approach with some freedom, but remaining firmly within the established parameters. Perhaps the future might have proved differently, but Hayes died prematurely just a year after this music was recorded.
The rest of the "crew" captured here: saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist (b. 1939), who taped this music and was the initiator behind Splinters, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (b. 1930), bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (b. 1937) and drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist (b. 1940), were the (not necessarily chronologically, but definitely spiritually) young Lions spearheading British Jazz into a new direction. The idea behind this session was to provide an open and most importantly completely free of any pre-conceptions environment for the musicians to express their ideas.
As with much contemporary Jazz at the time, the idea of free flow and mutual respectful listening is the core of creation here. The music consists of two long (47 and 30 minutes) improvised pieces, with no strict melody lines, but full of very "melodic" playing, which makes perfect sense musically. This is group improvisation at its best, full of musical interplay and mutual inspiration respectful of each other´s "moment" and bearing at each particular instant. In many respects this is a classic "textbook" recording, which could be used as a perfect demonstration of what group improvisation really is. As someone must have said sometime: "you can´t plan lovemaking", this music, although unplanned, is a pure work of love. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 07/12/2021Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BARBARA THOMPSON ~ FIRST LIGHT
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 54 (Barcode: 5060774190524) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 2023
This is an album collecting three archival live recordings / radio broadcasts by the late British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, which present her in various settings with the crème de la crème of the British Jazz musicians active in the early 1970s. As a result, it is a companion album to the tremendous 14CD Box Set “Live At The BBCFind albums with this title” by Barbara Thompson, released in 2020 by RepertoireFind albums on this label Records, offering material uncovered after the Box Set was released. This album, released by the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label, is a completely non-commercial release, with all profits from the album going to the Cure Parkinson’s Trust, a moving gesture by all the people involved, including Barbara’s and Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist’s daughter Ana GraceyFind albums by this artist and Jazz In Britain founder John ThurlowFind albums by this artist. We all still mourn Barbara’s and Jon’s untimely departures of course.
The first two tracks present the Group EFind albums by this artist, which comprised of (in addition to Barbara) vocalist Pepi LemerFind albums by this artist, pianist Peter LemerFind albums by this artist, bassist Johnny DyaniFind albums by this artist and drummer Laurie AllanFind albums by this artist. The music is Avant-Garde Jazz, with superb vocal parts by Lemer, who sadly is often forgotten, but was one of the most interesting Jazz vocalist of the period.
The next three tracks present a suite for a Big Band, called “The Awakening”, co-composed by Barbara and Jon. The band features a dreamy lineup of eleven instrumentalists and a vocalist – no other than my beloved Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist – which reads like a Who’s Who of the modern British Jazz and is conducted by Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist. The players are: trumpeters Ian HamerFind albums by this artist, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonist Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Don RendellFind albums by this artist and Barbara Thompson, cellist Charles TunnellFind albums by this artist, pianist Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Bill Le SageFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon Hiseman. The music is absolutely brilliant and very typical of the Big Band recordings recorded at the time by Neil Ardley, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and others. The vocal parts by Winstone are, not surprisingly, my favorite jewels, but the entire suite is simply divine and the fact it was discovered and now released is no less than sensational.
The last five tracks are by Barbara’s group JubiabaFind albums by this artist, which comprised of (in addition to Barbara) trumpeters George ChisholmFind albums by this artist and Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, Wadsworth, Le Sage, Peter Lemer, bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist, drummer Martin DrewFind albums by this artist and percussionist Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. It presents the early version of the band, which was essentially dedicated to combining Jazz with World Music influences, mostly Latin. As far as I am aware, this is the earliest recordings by Jubiaba captured on tape.
Overall, this is an absolute jewel from start to finish and an absolute must to all British Jazz enthusiasts, and in retrospect one of the most surprising and important releases by the Jazz In Britain label so far. The Big Band piece alone is a beacon symbolizing the birth of the modern British Jazz, with everything it stands for: ingenuity, originality, groundbreaking musical thinking and enormous talent. Hats off to everybody involved!
| | Updated: 26/07/2023Posted: 26/07/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | STAN TRACEY ~ UNDER MILK WOOD IN HAMBURG
RESTEAMED 117 (Barcode: 5060138617209) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2022
This is a truly sensational archive release of an album by one of Godfathers of the modern British Jazz, pianist / composer / bandleader Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist. In 1965 Tracey released the iconic “Under Milk WoodFind albums with this title” album, which presented a Jazz suite based on the play for voices of the same name, by Welsh poet Dylan ThomasFind albums by this artist. Tracey’s original album was recorded by his quartet, which included saxophonist Bobby WellinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummer Jackie DouganFind albums by this artist. A few months after the release of the album, which achieved instantaneous recognition as a masterpiece, in March 1966, Tracey was invited by the German NDR network to record a radio broadcast, for which he extended his quartet into a quintet, adding the great ex-Canadian trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. The broadcast was recorded, but remained unreleased on record until now. The recording sound quality is beyond perfection as is the performance by the quintet. It includes a short spoken introduction by Tracey.
“Under Milk Wood” is undoubtedly one of the most groundbreaking modern European Jazz recordings, presenting the innovations of the British Jazz, which are audible only so subtly here, but already clearly distinguishing this music from the American Jazz tradition. Tracey was about to push the boundaries of British Jazz in the next decades, remaining a head figure of the local scene, highly respected by his peers. His idiosyncratic way of playing the piano made him instantly recognizable in any setting and completely unique to this very day.
It is fascinating to compare the original quartet recording with this quintet version, which allows the full impact of Wheeler on the music to be hear perfectly clearly. Therefore, this version sound even more advanced and revolutionary than the original, as Wheeler adventurous spirit is exposed here in full as well as his uniquely brilliant trumpet / flugelhorn technique.
Overall, this album is one of the most sensational discoveries in recorded British Jazz history and the fact that is remained hidden for almost six decades and is now available, sounding as if recorded here and now is a bloody miracle. Needless to say, it is an absolute must in any serious British Jazz record collection.
| | Updated: 21/12/2022Posted: 20/12/2022 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TURNING POINT ~ CREATURES OF THE NIGHT / SILENT PROMISE
VOCALION 8448 (Barcode: 765387844820) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1977 - 1978 Released: 2009
1st and 2nd albums by the great British Jazz-Rock Fusin ensemble Turning PointFind albums by this artist, one of the most interesting and unique phenomena of the late 1970s, formed by great bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and vocalist Pepi LemerFind albums by this artist with saxophonist Dave TidballFind albums by this artist, pianist Brian MillerFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul RobinsonFind albums by this artist. The two albums represent the entire recorded output of the group, which disbanded following the recording of the second album as the musical scene at the time could no longer sustain ambitious music. The group´s music is a wonderful, typical British version of Jazz-Rock Fusion, which is based on clever compositions and virtuosic performances. The band had all that and more, as Lemer´s vocalese was quite unusual and the integration of the human voice as another instrument was rarely used, with the exception of Polish musicians Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist in their bands. Therefore I´ve always kept a worm spot for this band in my heart and the fact that this music was unavailable for so many years was a crying shame, now corrected by the wonderful Vocalion label. This is a must for any true lover of the British Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion followers, but Canterbury fans will also find this music fascinating. Most warmly recommended!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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