Record Reviews
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  | GRAHAM BOND ~ LIVE AT THE BBC AND OTHER STORIES
REPERTOIRE 1279 (Barcode: 4009910127926) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1962 - 1972 Released: 2015
This is a Box Set of archival material by British saxophonist / organist / composer / bandleader Graham BondFind albums by this artist, one of the most idiosyncratic and pioneering figures of the British Jazz, Jazz-Rock and Prog scenes. The material collected here consists mostly of recordings made by the BBC, but includes also some ultra-rare home recordings, demos and other ditties, covering the period between 1962 and 1972, which more or less presents Bond´s entire career before his tragic death in 1974, aged just 36 at the time.
Regardless of what various music history sources have to say, Bond is singlehandedly responsible for the creation of the Jazz-Rock idiom around 1963, when he formed the Graham Bond QuartetFind albums by this artist, which featured guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist (which were all destined to become superstars in the years to follow). The quartet amalgamated Bond´s experience with the Jazz world, gained while he was a member of the Don RendellFind albums by this artist Quintet, with the exploding Rhythm And Blues phenomenon, creating the earliest manifestation of Jazz-Rock known to man. One session of the Don Rendell Quintet with Bond as its member is included here and it also features as a guest musician saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who would become another of Bond´s close associates when he formed the seminal Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist in 1965, which was later joined by the celebrated drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist. Following the Organization´s breakup Bond formed the Graham Bond InitiationFind albums by this artist and later on collaborated with the poet / lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, who wrote also the booklet that accompanies this Box Set. Their recordings together are the last (chronologically) tracks in this collection.
The music included in this collection is of varied quality and sometimes of pretty Lo-Fi sound quality, even after it was carefully restored and remastered, but it is of enormous historic importance, as it documents not only Bond´s career but in fact the entire British Jazz scene, which was experiencing at that time a tremendous upheaval and explosion of new talents and ideological modifications of the very fabric of Jazz, which was parting from the American dominance and creating a new variety of the idiom, which would crystallize as European Jazz, spawning Jazz-Rock in the process.
Bond´s performances on the Hammond Organ are all superbly executed and it makes perfect sense that they influenced an entire generation of British musicians, who invented Progressive Rock next, such a Jon LordFind albums by this artist of Deep PurpleFind albums by this artist, Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist of ColosseumFind albums by this artist, Brian AugerFind albums by this artist and of course many others. In general the music portrays the atmosphere of the British scene at the time, where genres and classifications were pretty arbitrary and where the Jazz / Rock / Prog idioms were influencing and embracing each other with ease and natural affinity.
Kudos to the German RepertoireFind albums on this label label, which is one of the most important sources of reissues, for the meticulous work done on this set and for bringing this material back to life. This set continues the work done by Repertoire on the previous Graham Bond Box Set called "Wade In The Water – Classics, Origins and OdditiesFind albums with this title", which covers the recordings by Graham Bond Organization. Together these two Box Sets pay tribute to one of the greatest heroes of the British Jazz / Jazz-Rock pioneering figures, who is sadly often forgotten and is rarely given the credit he deserves for his revolutionary creativity.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 01/04/2016 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND / PETE BROWN ~ TWO HEADS ARE BETTER THAN ONE
ESOTERIC 2042 (Barcode: 5013929714229) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
It was inevitable that the two British icons saxophonist / keyboardist / composer Graham BondFind albums by this artist and vocalist / trumpeter / lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist would eventually find themselves in one band. After all they rubbed shoulders for over a decade before this album was recorded, both being members of a circle of musicians with many mutual friends like bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist (who co-wrote most of the CreamFind albums by this artist material with Brown, as well as all the material on his early solo albums and who was a member of the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist (also members of the Organization) and several others. When they both found themselves out of job, getting together was the natural solution. The only album this band recorded is one of the wackiest – mind you in a most wonderful way – albums created at the time. Completely beyond any stylistic limitations Bond and Brown just seem to have a great time, playing and singing together accompanied by some superb instrumentalists. Expect the unexpected here, with Brown´s witty lyrics and Bond´s excellent keyboards work both on organ and acoustic piano. Sadly this album turned out to be Bond´s last studio recording before he perished in a terrible accident / alleged suicide two years later. With his death the British Jazz-Rock scene lost its original forefather. Definitely worth checking out and a must to all Bond and Brown fans.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETE BROWN / BATTERED ORNAMENTS ~ A MEAL YOU CAN SHAKE HANDS WITH IN THE DARK / MANTLE-PIECE
BGO 489 (Barcode: 5017261204899) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2000
1st and 2nd albums by UK group Battered OrnamentsFind albums by this artist, led (on the first album only) by poet / musician Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Brown was one of the most colorful and interesting figures on the UK scene in the 1960s, a part of a larger group of friends, which included Jazz, Rock and Avant-Garde musicians like Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and even John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. He took active part in the Jazz & Poetry experimental movement leading a group called First Real Poetry BandFind albums by this artist, which was combining elements of Blues, Avant-Garde Rock, Jazz and Jazz-Rock. Of course Brown is mostly remembered for his co-writing of many songs with Jack Bruce, which were part of the CreamFind albums by this artist repertoire, as well as on Jack´s early solo albums. Brown continued his musical adventured by forming the band Battered Ornaments with George KhanFind albums by this artist on saxophone, Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist on guitar, Charlie HartFind albums by this artist on organ and a great Jazzy rhythm section. The band recorded just one, absolutely brilliant album (the first of the two presented here), with Brown singing the lead vocals, something he tried to avoid but did anyway, and Heckstall-Smith playing on two tracks. The music is absolutely stunning, a great example of the early UK Jazz-Rock, which is completely different of course from the later Jazz-Rock Fusion that most US bands pursued. After recording the first album the personality clash and rivalry between Brown and Spedding resulted in Brown leaving the band (and forming immediately a new one called PibloktoFind albums by this artist). The band, now led by Spedding, recorded a second album, using material written by Spedding and Brown earlier. Although not as brilliant as the first, it is still a great example of early Jazz-Rock and includes basically the same lineup as the first album less Brown and Hart. Together these two albums are a must to any fan of the early British Jazz-Rock scene and include some of the most ingenious music ever made. A must!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETE BROWN / PIBLOKTO ~ THINGS MAY COME AND THINGS MAY GO... / THOUSANDS ON A RAFT
BGO 522 (Barcode: 5017261205223) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2001
1st and 2nd albums by UK group PibloktoFind albums by this artist, led by poet / musician Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Brown was one of the most colorful and interesting figures on the UK scene in the 1960s, a part of a larger group of friends, which included Jazz, Rock and Avant-Garde musicians like Graham BondFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and even John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist. He took active part in the Jazz & Poetry experimental movement leading a group called First Real Poetry BandFind albums by this artist, which was combining elements of Blues, Avant-Garde Rock, Jazz and Jazz-Rock. Of course Brown is mostly remembered for his co-writing of many songs with Jack Bruce, which were part of the CreamFind albums by this artist repertoire, as well as on Jack´s early solo albums. Brown continued his musical adventured by forming the band Battered OrnamentsFind albums by this artist, and later on when the band kicked him out, he formed Piblokto, recording two albums with that group. The band included guitarist Jim MullenFind albums by this artist, organist Dave ThompsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Roger BunnFind albums by this artist (later replaced by Steve GloverFind albums by this artist) and drummer Laurie AllenFind albums by this artist (later replaced by Rob TaitFind albums by this artist). The group was popular mostly in Europe (France especially), where they toured extensively. The music is absolutely superb, a mixture of Jazz, Rock, and Psychedelic influences, being a great example of the early UK Jazz-Rock, which is completely different of course from the later Jazz-Rock Fusion that most US bands pursued. Together these two albums are a must to any fan of the early British Jazz-Rock scene and include some of the most ingenious music ever made. A must!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ A QUESTION OF TIME
ESOTERIC 2270 (Barcode: 5013929737020) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2011
This is a superb album by the great Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who returns to active duty after several years of silence, with an incredible set of new songs, most of which are co-written with his lifetime friend, lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Surrounded by a dreamy support band, which features such distinguished musicians as guitarists Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, Vernon ReidFind albums by this artist and Jimmy RippFind albums by this artist, old-timers: pianist Nicky HopkinsFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, World Music stars like Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist and Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist and others, Bruce delivers his incredible vocals and plays keyboards and of course bass, creating one of his best albums ever. An absolute must for every Bruce fan on earth!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ A QUESTION OF TIME
ACADIA 8155 (Barcode: 805772815520) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2007
This is a superb album by the great Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who returns to active duty after several years of silence, with an incredible set of new songs, most of which are co-written with his lifetime friend, lyricist Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. Surrounded by a dreamy support band, which features such distinguished musicians as guitarists Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, Vernon ReidFind albums by this artist and Jimmy RippFind albums by this artist, old-timers: pianist Nicky HopkinsFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, World Music stars like Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist and Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist and others, Bruce delivers his incredible vocals and plays keyboards and of course bass, creating one of his best albums ever. An absolute must for every Bruce fan on earth!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ I`VE ALWAYS WANTED TO DO THIS
ESOTERIC 2073 (Barcode: 5013929717329) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2008
This wonderful album by bassist / singer / composer Jack BruceFind albums by this artist was unfortunately lost somewhere along the way, drawing little attention, although it is as good in every respect as the rest of the material Bruce recorded through the 1970s as a solo artist and leader of the Jack Bruce BandFind albums by this artist. A beautiful set of songs composed by Bruce and as usual with lyrics supplied by his poet-friend Pete BrownFind albums by this artist comprise the bulk of the material and are exceptionally intelligent and moving. The stellar band accompanying him on this recording includes guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist (ColosseumFind albums by this artist), keyboardist David SanciousFind albums by this artist and drummer Billy CobhamFind albums by this artist. Bruce delivers the vocals in a completely unique fashion, his operatic abilities evident as always and the instrumental work is spotless and sympathetic. Considering Bruce´s songwriting abilities one wonders why he remains to be known only among a relatively small circle of friends and admirers, rather than being appreciated and treasures more wildly. Well he´s obviously simply too good for his own good. Brilliant stuff and a most welcome reissue!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ MONKJACK
CMP 1010 (Barcode: 044351101023) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1995 Released: 1995
This is a wonderful and very personal album by the great Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who abandons his bass playing and sticks only with piano and vocals on this one. Accompanied by Bernie Worrell on the legendary Hammond B3 organ, Bruce delivers a series of his composition (except for one Blues standard) to words by his life-long poet / companion Pete BrownFind albums by this artist as well as a couple of other lyricist. There is a wonderful intimacy here a superb recording quality (thanks to CMPFind albums on this label Records sound engineer / owner Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist), which makes this album a truly special affair. I can´t imagine any Bruce fan missing this one in their collection.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ MORE JACK THAN GOD
SANCTUARY 211 (Barcode: 5050159021123) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2002 - 2003 Released: 2003
This is the 13th (and one before the last) studio album by British bassist / vocalist / songwriter and music icon, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist. It was the second album co-produced by Bruce with American producer Kip HanrahanFind albums by this artist. The album presents fourteen tracks, nine of which are updated version of songs released on earlier albums, which were co-written by Bruce with poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, and five are new songs co-written with Hanrahan. Bruce plays bass, piano, synthesizers and sings, and is accompanied by several excellent musicians, like guitarist Vernon ReidFind albums by this artist, drummer Horacio FernandezFind albums by this artist and others.
In many respects the album can be seen as a retrospective, recorded in view of Bruce’s declining health, which eventually lead to a liver transplant, shortly after this album was completed. He recovered from the transplant and resumed live performances, but did not release anything new (except for live concert recordings) until 2014, i.e. over a decade later. He died later that year.
Bruce was undoubtedly one of the great Geniuses of British Rock and his unique bass, vocal and songwriting talents left one of the mightiest music legacies in Rock. He was a great Jazz lover as well and even recorded a great Jazz album early in his career, called “Things We LikeFind albums with this title”. I have been lucky to know Jack Bruce personally and spent many hours conversing with his, whenever out paths crossed.
Overall, this is another strong album by Jack Bruce, in which he returns to many of his favorite songs in new arrangements. His bass playing and vocals as are strong as ever, despite his ailing health, and one can never get enough of his brilliant songs. A classic!
| | Updated: 20/01/2025Posted: 20/01/2025 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ SHADOWS IN THE AIR
SANCTUARY 142 (Barcode: 5050749214225) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1999 - 2000 Released: 2001
This is the 12th studio album by the legendary British singer / multi-instrumentalist / songwriter Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who sings and plays bass and piano. He is supported by several musicians, including several percussionists, and prominent guests, including guitarists Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Gary MooreFind albums by this artist and Vernon ReidFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Dr. JohnFind albums by this artist. The album presents fifteen tracks, most of which were composed by Bruce with lyrics by poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, or co-composed with Kip HanrahanFind albums by this artist, who also co-produced the album. Six of the tracks are new versions of songs previously recorded by CreamFind albums by this artist and West, Bruce & LaingFind albums by this artist or appearing on his earlier albums.
The late recorded output by Bruce, which includes this album, its follower “More Jack Than GodFind albums with this title” and his final recording “Silver RailsFind albums with this title” are tragically little known and mostly ignored by his followers, despite the fact that they include some of his finest songwriting and playing. The songs are more introvert and lyrical, and offer beautiful melodies and as usual profound lyrics, reflecting the last phase of his life and career.
Overall, this is a brilliant, as always, album by one of the greatest vocalists / musicians / songwriters of all time, who never achieved the proper recognition simply because he never compromised and created music he believed in. Despite his fame as a Rock superstar, his true glory remains deeply hidden in his solo career and his deep affinity to Jazz.
| | Updated: 31/10/2023Posted: 31/10/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ SONGS FOR A TAILOR (EXPANDED EDITION)
POLYDOR 065603 (Barcode: 044006560328) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2003
1st album by one of the most creative figures of modern rock - Jack BruceFind albums by this artist. Recorded while the supergroup CreamFind albums by this artist was falling appart, Bruce created a true masterpiece featuring all his assets - great voice, superb bass playing and genious compositions. Add to this the lyrics by Pete BrownFind albums by this artist and the excellent cast of supporting musicians and you have in your hands one the best albums ever recorded.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE ~ THE 50TH BIRTHDAY CONCERTS
MIG 90610 (Barcode: 885513906106) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2014
This Box Set is a document of the two concerts organized in order to celebrate the 50th Birthday of British vocalist / bassist / composer Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest figures of Rock / Blues-Rock / Prog-Rock and Jazz-Rock. These concerts took place on November 2nd and 3rd of 1993 and were recorded and videoed for posterity. The Box Sets includes two DVDs which present the music played during the two nights (totaling in almost four hours of unadulterated Jack Bruce genius) and in addition it also includes a third DVD with an extensive collection of interviews with Bruce and his guests recorded at the time and a CD with another hour of music, which is not included on the two concert DVDs. In short about six hours of Jack Bruce, his music and his unique personality, which made his one of the most respected and admired musicians of the 20th Century.
Bruce invited a formidable stable of musicians / friends to come and play with him during these two days, a list of which reads like the who´s who of British Rock and includes: guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and Gary MooreFind albums by this artist, drummers Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist and Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist, pianist / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, organist Bernie WorrellFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and Art ThemenFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonist John MumfordFind albums by this artist and vocalists Gary "Mudbone" CooperFind albums by this artist and Maggie ReillyFind albums by this artist. Poet / lyricist / vocalist and a lifetime friend of Bruce, the incredible Pete BrownFind albums by this artist also makes an appearance. With such lineup the music is simply exploding with talent and incredible performances.
The music includes a selection of mostly Bruce originals, spanning from the glorious CreamFind albums by this artist days and through all the solo albums Bruce recorded after Cream disbanded. His brilliant compositions prove again that they are completely resistant to the passing of time, and present a fabulous legacy that will stay with us forever.
My personal favorite part of the concert is the last hour on the second DVD, which presents just the trio of Baker, Bruce and Moore, playing a series of Cream favorites, which is simply breathtaking and presents an "alternative" Cream vision, which is in every respect as exciting as the original group with Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist. The absence of Clapton is in fact a great disappointment and might have been a momentous occasion, but it was corrected twelve years later during the Cream reunion concerts in 2005.
Overall this is a package no lover of Classic Rock will consider to miss, especially in view of the fact that some of the people captured here are no longer with us (Heckstall-Smith, Moore and of course Bruce himself). Since nobody makes music like this any more, this stuff is even more important today for the sake of the new generation, in case it´s not completely lost yet.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 03/05/2016 | 3DVD+CD 4 Digipak Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK BRUCE / HR BIG BAND ~ MORE JACK THAN BLUES
MIG 80312 (Barcode: 885513803122) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2015
This is a sensational live recording by the legendary British vocalist / bassist / songwriter Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, presenting the veteran Artist accompanied by the German HR Big BandFind albums by this artist performing eleven of his wonderful songs, originating from the seminal CreamFind albums by this artist albums and his solo albums, many of which feature lyrics by Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, and presenting a sort of "best of" review of his career, although of course Bruce could have selected dozens other songs and those would have fitted the bill as well. The accompanying DVD presents this live recording expanded by the addition of two more songs performed at the time, which are not included on the audio CD.
The HR Big Band (from Frankfurt) is one of several German Big Bands, such as the NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist (from Hamburg) or the WDR Big BandFind albums by this artist (from Cologne), which function side by side with the regional state broadcasting corporations active in Germany, being decentralized by law and remaining as one of the last bastions of independent publicly sponsored cultural organizations, adding a tremendous input into European Jazz in particular and European Culture in general. The musicians employed by these Big Bands have ideal working conditions and are free from economic struggles, which take a heavy toll on most freelance musicians. Also many projects, like the one documented on this album, would have never happened in a purely unsponsored commercial environment and the existence of these bands is simply a cultural miracle.
The HR Big Band, conducted by Jorg Achim KellerFind albums by this artist, who also wrote all the Big Band arrangements of Bruce´s songs, supports the guest amicably and elegantly, with obvious love and tremendous respect. Together they achieve an unprecedented effect, which is fresh and uplifting even for veteran Bruce followers. The Big Band sound and the splendid soloing by the Big Band members transform Bruce´s songs into a completely new dimension, present a different aesthetic perspective and emphasize the universality of his music. The presence of American Giant drummer Danny GottliebFind albums by this artist also adds to the overall result. Bruce is in absolute top form here, both as a vocalist and as an instrumentalist, delivering wonderfully lyrical interpretations of his songs and fiery soloing.
Bruce´s death in 2014 left an entire generation of his contemporaries struck with a tremendous feeling of loss and grief, once we realized that there would be no more new songs and none of the personal gestures, those who knew him experienced every time we met. Personally I always admired him both as a musical genius and a human being and in retrospect I sense that in spite of the fame and glory he enjoyed occasionally, he remains as one of the most underappreciated and misunderstood musicians of our time. His love of Blues, Rock and Jazz and the unique way he walked the tight rope between them separated him from most other musicians of his time. His pivotal role in the creation of the Jazz-Rock idiom would have sufficed for most, but for him it was just one of many achievements he managed to put on the pages of his life´s book.
This album is a wonderful opportunity to taste, feel and experience Jack Bruce at his best, doing what he loved, always uncompromisingly and true to himself at all times. The sound quality of the recording is near perfect considering the difficulty of recording a Big Band and the separation allows hearing the individual instruments in great detail. This is a great tribute to Bruce´s many talents and a piece of music history, of which he was a grand champion. "More Jack Than Blues" is a most appropriate epitaph to his life!
| | Updated: 25/04/2016Posted: 24/04/2016 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ TIME ON OUR SIDE
RUF 1209 (Barcode: 710347120926) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2010 - 2013 Released: 2014
This is the final album by seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group ColosseumFind albums by this artist. The group was founded by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist and for many years included also keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist and vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist. Following the recording of their last album together “Tomorrow`s BluesFind albums with this title” Heckstall-Smith died in 2004 and saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, Hiseman’s wife, joined the group for its final stretch, which ended with the death of Hiseman in 2018. The last lineup with Thompson recorded this final album over a period of three years, and it also features vocalist Ana GraceyFind albums by this artist (daughter of Thompson and Hiseman) on one track, which she also wrote. The album presents nine studio tracks, all originals by the members of the band except the a.m. track by Gracey, several featuring lyrics by the legendary Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. The CD edition includes one live bonus track, written by Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Pete Brown.
The music is everything one might expect from a Colosseum album; a great amalgam of Jazz / Rock / Blues, which always represented their musical aspirations. Decades of experience are evident in the brilliant instrumental performances, which are as strong as ever, as are the vocals by Farlowe, Clempson and Clarke. The music might be a bit more relaxed and less experimental than on the early alums, but is still excellent in all respects.
Thompson’s saxophone parts are quite different from those by Heckstall-Smith, which somewhat changed the overall sound of the group, but did not make a radical impact, which would change the general concept. This is definitely a playful work by these veterans, which still sounds great and offers a proper last fanfare to one of the best groups of all time.
Colosseum fans won’t miss this album of course, but it should appeal to all Classic Rock fans around the globe, as nobody makes music like this anymore. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 06/06/2021Posted: 06/06/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ FRESH CREAM (SUPER DELUXE EDITION)
POLYDOR 602557185515 (Barcode: 602557185515) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2017
This is a reissue / archival Box Set presenting the music recorded by the iconic British Rock / Blues-Rock band CreamFind albums by this artist and released on their debut album “Fresh CreamFind albums with this title”. The Box Set includes three CDs and one Blue-ray and is lavishly packaged with a hardcover book with an essay, song lyrics and many photographs.
CD1 presents mono mixes, which include the album (ten tracks), one outtake, three singles and two EPs with alternate mixes and alternate masters. CD2 presents stereo mixes, which include the album, three session recordings and seven previously unreleased alternate mixes. CD3 presents eleven outtakes, early versions and alternate mixes, all bar one previously unreleased and sixteen BBC recordings (only two previously unreleased), captured at four different sessions. The Blue-ray Disk presents the US mono and stereo versions of the album and the three additional tracks, all in 24/96 High Resolution audio.
Cream, the first supergroup, were obviously a groundbreaking musical step, which combined the Manfred MannFind albums by this artist bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist and Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist, creating a true one of a kind monster, which was about to change Blues-Rock and Rock like no other group ever did before them. In many respects they still reverberate in every Rock album recorded since 1996, when they recorded the music included herein.
All three Cream members were geniuses in they own right of course, but it was Jack Bruce who wrote all the original material on this album together with the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist (except one tune by Baker, which was mostly a drum solo), with the rest of the material being traditional Blues pieces. The combination of Blues with Rock riffs and heavy sound was of course the cradle of Blues-Rock as we know it.
Overall, this is one of the most revolutionary Rock albums of all time, which opened completely new opportunities of cross-genre pollination and the opened the Golden Decade of music, during which most of the music worth listening to was created. For Cream fanatics this is of course an essential piece of the puzzle, but most veteran Cream followers already have all the material here in one form or another. Nevertheless, this golden classic deserves to be treated with respect, today perhaps more so than ever.
| | Updated: 29/09/2021Posted: 29/09/2021 | 3CD+BD 4 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ GOODBYE TOUR LIVE 1968
POLYDOR 602577952999 (Barcode: 602577952999) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2019
This is an archival Box Set collecting four live shows by the iconic British supergroup CreamFind albums by this artist, recorded during the groups final American tour in October 1968 (Oakland, LA and San Diego) and the final UK concert at the Royal Albert Hall in November 1968. None of this material was previously released on CD. The 4CD set is lavishly packaged with a book full of great photographs and a lengthy essay by David FrickeFind albums by this artist.
Guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist managed to revolutionize Rock music during the short time they stayed together, pioneering everything that defines Rock by crystalizing its ingredients: riffs, Blues changes, power trio setting, extended soloing and most of all incredible inventiveness and stamina. Most of the original material in Cream’s repertoire was composed by Bruce, featuring lyrics by the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, but they also played their interpretations of Blues standards.
But Cream were also way beyond what is commonly defined as Rock. Bruce and Baker pioneered Jazz-Rock Fusion a few years earlier when playing in groups led by Graham BondFind albums by this artist, and both had Jazz upbringing in them, which often came to the surface during their lengthy improvisations, which characterized their live performances. Clapton, who did not have a Jazz background, invented the Rock improvisation singlehandedly, opening the path to many great guitar players that followed in his path as Rock improvisers: Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and others.
The music included in this Box Set is a wonderful opportunity to study the modus operandi Cream developed over time, and although the four concerts are based on a very similar set lists, each and every one of the four versions of the same tune are completely different in every aspect. There are subtle tempi changes, different dynamics, bass patterns and obviously each of the guitar solos is a world in itself.
Listening to the bass playing reveals the genius of Bruce, who was definitely the greatest virtuoso of the bass guitar in all times. Baker, who learned to play drums from the great British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist, was also one of the most unique Rock drummers of all times and his drum soli are absolutely unique to this very day. This album is a great tribute to these two Giants, both sadly no longer with us.
Overall, the music this album presents, despite of being five and a half decades old, is still some of the finest Rock achievements in the entire history of the genre. There is no need to recommend this album to veteran Rock fans, but there a billions of people who never even heard one note of this, which explains why this world looks like it does :) My suggestion to the Jazz lovers among my readers would be to give it a listen and discover not only how it swings, but also where the sources of the Jazz-Rock Fusion Nile originate from.
| | Updated: 28/01/2022Posted: 28/01/2022 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ LIVE IN SWEDEN AND THE USA
LONDON CALLING BOX 4 (Barcode: 5053792300433) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2021
This is an archival Box Set collecting three live shows by the iconic British supergroup CreamFind albums by this artist, recorded in Detroit in October 1967 on CD1 & CD2, in Stockholm in November 1967 on CD3 and finally in San Diego in October 1968 on CD4. The material is taken from radio broadcasts and offers iffy sound quality. The material on the last CD was also released on the “Goodbye Tour Live 1968Find albums with this title” Box Set, in much better sound quality.
Guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist managed to revolutionize Rock music during the short time they stayed together, pioneering everything that defines Rock by crystalizing its ingredients: riffs, Blues changes, power trio setting, extended soloing and most of all incredible inventiveness and stamina. Most of the original material in Cream’s repertoire was composed by Bruce, featuring lyrics by the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, but they also played their interpretations of Blues standards.
The music included in this Box Set is a wonderful opportunity to study the modus operandi Cream developed over time, and the time spans of just one year exhibits dramatic alteration in their stylistic approach and depth. The extended Rock improvisations that Cream pioneered, were a significant ingredient of their music, and went way beyond just long guitar solos played by other Rock guitarist, often bordering on early Jazz-Rock Fusion.
Listening to the bass playing reveals the genius of Bruce, who was definitely the greatest virtuoso of the bass guitar in all times. Baker, who learned to play drums from the great British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist, was also one of the most unique Rock drummers of all times and his drum soli are absolutely unique to this very day. This album is a great tribute to these two Giants, both sadly no longer with us.
Overall, the music this album presents, despite of being five and a half decades old, is still some of the finest Rock achievements in the entire history of the genre. There is no need to recommend this album to veteran Rock fans, but there a billions of people who never even heard one note of this, which explains why this world looks like it does :) My suggestion to the Jazz lovers among my readers would be to give it a listen and discover not only how it swings, but also where the sources of the Jazz-Rock Fusion Nile originate from.
Side Note
Obiterdictum Ltd, a company based in Cyprus (oh well you know the story… copyright laws and legal issues) releases mostly live recorded radio broadcasts from the 1960s on and offers an amazing source of music which was never officially released by some of the best Classic Rock and Jazz artists. The catalogue offers five hundred releases, which is an absolute treasure chest of music history, often appearing for the first time.
Although the sound quality and sometimes also music quality range from absolutely brilliant to pretty poor, most of the material is surely listenable, especially after being remastered recently, and more importantly offers music which is not available elsewhere.
The company releases the albums under several sub-labels: Air CutsFind albums on this label, EchoesFind albums on this label, Hi HatFind albums on this label, HotspurFind albums on this label, InterferenceFind albums on this label, KeyholeFind albums on this label, KlondikeFind albums on this label, Live On VinylFind albums on this label, London CallingFind albums on this label, OrbitFind albums on this label, Rox VoxFind albums on this label and Sound StageFind albums on this label. There is no ironclad logic as to what material appears on which label, except perhaps some internal considerations by the Obiterdictum owners.
Approach with caution, but keep in mind that some of these releases are absolutely brilliant!
| | Updated: 01/02/2022Posted: 01/02/2022 | CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ THE FAREWELL CONCERT
BMG 864689 (Barcode: 743218646898) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2001
Although short-lived, British super-trio CreamFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly one of the greatest Rock phenomena in all times, influencing generation after generation of Rockers, decades after the last chord they played went silent forever. Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist created a complete new level of Rock expression, building upon the Blues tradition, turning the volume knob to the max and most importantly adding the element of improvisation, enabling them to extend the 3 minutes song format into half an hour epics. The combined talents of the trio amalgamated into a foray of ideas, mostly on the instrumental plateau. Bruce also contributed his extraordinary songwriting skills, which combined with the lyrics provided by poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist resulted in many Rock anthems, unsurpassed to this very day. Sadly on November 26th, 1968 Cream played their last concert together, announcing their intentions to disband shortly beforehand. The concert took place at London´s Royal Albert Hall with the BBC commissioning the filming of the event by director Tony PalmerFind albums by this artist. The result is an essential piece of music history, which every Rock fan on earth should see at least once, to comprehend the might and glory of this music. An edited version of the film was broadcasted on TV, but this DVD includes both the TV version and the full unedited version of the film. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, 80 minutes.
| | | DVD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ WHEELS OF FIRE
POLYDOR 531812 (Barcode: 731453181229) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 1997
3rd album by CreamFind albums by this artist is the peak of the groups legacy. Two separate albums present the group in the studio and live (for the first time). The studio album includes their best material so far, with superb Jack BruceFind albums by this artist / Pete BrownFind albums by this artist material (`White Room`, `Politician`) and some excellent interpretations of outside songs (`Born Under A Bad Sign`). The live album (although subtitled `Live At The Filmore` it was mostly recorded at San Francisco`s `Winterland`) is the first time a Rock group presents two 16+ minutes takes of on stage improvisations with extended instrumental solos by the virtuosi players. A Rock corner stone!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DICK HECKSTALL-SMITH ~ BLUES AND BEYOND
BLUE STORM 004 (Barcode: 5050232500422) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001
This is the last album by British saxophonist / composer Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, recorded before his passing in 2004. The album, produced by Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, includes an incredible list of British musicians, who played with him during his career: guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, Peter GreenFind albums by this artist and Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, drummers Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist and Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and vocalists Rab McCulloughFind albums by this artist, Paul JonesFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist. John MayallFind albums by this artist plays piano and several other musicians also take part in the proceedings. The album presents twelve tracks, most of which are originals by Heckstall-Smith and some are Blues standards.
As the list of names and the album’s title suggest, the album is dedicated to Blues and Blues-Rock material, which of course was always a part of Heckstall-Smith’s background in addition to his Jazz-Rock Fusion, Prog and Jazz activities.
The music is absolutely delightful, as expected, and the guests / friends invited to participate do not disappoint. The album is full of great tunes, brilliant guitar soli and evocative vocals, all within the Blues idiom, spiced with Heckstall-Smith’s idiosyncratic saxophone playing. Of course the album brings fond memories of his activities with Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and ColosseumFind albums by this artist, which were icons of the British scene for many years.
Overall, this is a brilliant and sadly little known album by one of the true heroes of the British Blues, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz scenes. It certainly deserves to be heard and if anybody can find a copy of it, it is wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 03/02/2022Posted: 03/02/2022 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ NOVUS
EAGLE 659 (Barcode: 5034504165922) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2017
This is the twelfth studio album by the seminal British Classic Rock group Procol HarumFind albums by this artist, one of the last active representatives of the great music wave that started over five decades ago. It is separated by fourteen years from the band´s previous studio album "The Well`s On FireFind albums with this title". Although the only founding member of Procol Harum still present on this album is vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist, the sound and the musical style of the group remain pretty stable over time. The piano / Hammond organ double keyboards dominated sound, which has been the group´s trademark over time, is here and so are Brooker´s unique dramatic vocals. The Hammond is handled by Josh PhilipsFind albums by this artist, the bluesy guitar by Geoff WhitehornFind albums by this artist, the bass by Matt PeggFind albums by this artist (son of the legendary Dave PeggFind albums by this artist) and the drums by Geoff DunnFind albums by this artist. The album offers eleven new songs, almost all co-composed by Brooker and Philips. This is the first album by the band which features lyrics by the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist (of CreamFind albums by this artist and Jack BruceFind albums by this artist fame) after decades of working with the poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist.
Musically the album does not break any new ground, but it stays, as already mentioned above, faithful to the band´s tradition to produce highly melodic lyrical and even melancholic songs, which often amalgamate elements of British Folk and some Classical Music influences. Brown´s lyrics are perhaps less ominous and mysterious, but they are full of his whimsical metaphors and dry British humor, which is all for the best. The songs vary in their intensity and expressiveness, but the best of them are certainly up to par with the great legacy of Procol Harum at its best.
Overall it is mostly "more of the same", which in the case of a band like Procol Harum is quite a compliment. I had a great fun listening to these songs and the idea that someone is still able to write music like this is a lifesaver. Not everything has to change in time, and for Classic Rock fans staying in the past means staying alive. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 27/01/2019Posted: 27/01/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WEST, BRUCE & LAING ~ WHATEVER TURNS YOU ON
ESOTERIC 2075 (Barcode: 5013929717527) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2008
2nd album by the short-lived Anglo-American super-group West, Bruce & LaingFind albums by this artist consisting of guitarist Leslie WestFind albums by this artist and drummer Corky LaingFind albums by this artist from the American band MountainFind albums by this artist and British bassist / vocalist / songwriter extraordinaire Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, of CreamFind albums by this artist fame. The group came together after both the first incarnation of Mountain and the Jack Bruce Band fell apart and was almost a "natural" choice of participants, considering the many parallels between Mountain and Cream, both stylistically and personally via Mountain member and Cream producer Felix PappalardiFind albums by this artist. This studio recording is a great document of the level of energy involved in the group´s performances and the virtuosity of its members. Bruce´s bass playing is simply spectacular, as are his vocals and he is especially strong on his own excellent compositions co-created (as usual) with poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist. People, who like Cream and Mountain recordings, will enjoy this stuff immensely and the younger people can hear what Rock was all about, when it was truly rocking.
Visitors' Comments
Dr. Rafael Augusto Lara Palmeros
First of all, this item is a great release from Esoteric Records. Whatever turns you on is the second and last studio albumn for the excellent Blues-Rock supergroup West, Bruce and Laing. This studio recording is one of the most underrated albumns in the History of Blues-Rock. The musicians playing a marvelous music with a great performance by Bruce´s bass - I think that is Bruce finest bassplayer ever- (´Rock´n Roll machine, ´Back fire´,´Sifting sand´, ´Like a plate and the wonderful ´November´s song´), Leslie and Corky shine on some Mountain-like heavy Blues rockers like ´Rock´n Roll Machine and ´Backfire´. On other hand, ´Sifting sand´is a beauty song with one of those powerful West gospelvocals They are a real, great combination for Bruce and the music is well-played, strong and beautiful, but it really is Jack´s albumn. Time to re-valute this lost masterwork from a supergroup. Excellent!!! and a must for a Blues-Rock fan!!!. Five stars or more
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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