Record Reviews
210 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | VAN DER GRAAF GENERATOR ~ A GROUNDING IN NUMBERS
ESOTERIC 1001 (Barcode: 5013929710184) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
This is a new (2010) studio album by the legendary Van Der Graaf GeneratorFind albums by this artist – who really needs to add anything more here? The trio: Peter HammillFind albums by this artist (vocals, piano, guitar), Hugh BantonFind albums by this artist (keyboards and bass) and Guy EvansFind albums by this artist (drums) have done it all already and we all know exactly what they are capable of, so the only question remains: did they do it right again this time? As far as I can tell, they sure did. Some critics whine about this being a new Hammill solo album and not enough of a group effort; hey this is the usual nonsense critics whine about. If you like VDGG, you’ll love this album, I assure you, all the rest is irrelevant. We are all getting old, but we can still kick ass…
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  | RARE BIRD ~ RARE BIRD
ESOTERIC 2001 (Barcode: 5013929710122) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2007
1st album by excellent British Prog band Rare BirdFind albums by this artist, one of the most unusual and original outfits on the burgeoning scene of the late 1960s / early 1970s. Fronted by two keyboards players Graham FieldsFind albums by this artist (organ) and David KaffinettiFind albums by this artist (electric piano) the group also included bassist / vocalist Steve GouldFind albums by this artist and drummer Mark AshtonFind albums by this artist. Purposely avoiding the sound of guitar, they created a wonderful balance between the two keyboards, exchanging licks and complimenting each other virtuously. Their material was also excellent, often with quirky rhythmic background but not eschewing beautiful ballads. The eponymous debut album is a beautiful showcase of daring innovation and excellent musical taste, rarely achieved by other groups and remains one of the most stunning debuts ever. It includes the song "Sympathy", one of the greatest and everlasting anthems of British Prog, which enjoyed enormous chart success all over the world in spite of its unusual sound. This is a true gem and an essential piece of music, which lost absolutely nothing of its initial impact.
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  | RARE BIRD ~ AS YOUR MIND FLIES BY
ESOTERIC 2002 (Barcode: 5013929710221) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
2nd album by excellent British Prog band Rare BirdFind albums by this artist, one of the most unusual and original outfits on the burgeoning scene of the late 1960s / early 1970s. Fronted by two keyboards players Graham FieldsFind albums by this artist (organ) and David KaffinettiFind albums by this artist (electric piano) the group also included bassist / vocalist Steve GouldFind albums by this artist and drummer Mark AshtonFind albums by this artist. Purposely avoiding the sound of guitar, they created a wonderful balance between the two keyboards, exchanging licks and complimenting each other virtuously. Their material was also excellent, often with quirky rhythmic background but not eschewing beautiful ballads. With the second album the band faced the incredible challenge to repeat and perhaps improve the amazing achievement of their debut and they passed the test with flying colors. Completely disregarding any commercial influences, they moved even deeper into Prog and included on the album a lengthy song cycle called "Flight", which occupied the entire B side of the original LP. The music is absolutely stunning and consists of some of the most intriguing stuff recorded at the time. This is a true gem and an essential piece of music, which lost absolutely nothing of its initial impact.
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  | EGG ~ THE CIVIL SURFACE
ESOTERIC 2003 (Barcode: 5013929710320) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2007
3rd and last album by the brilliant British trio EggFind albums by this artist, which comprised of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, bassist Mont CampbellFind albums by this artist and drummer Clive BrooksFind albums by this artist, recorded almost three years after the group disbanded following the release of their previous album. Unfortunately the reunion proved to be short lived, and this was to be their last recording together. Egg was an archetypal representative of the Canterbury scene and their sound, dominated by Stewart´s keyboards, is one of the genre´s most recognizable aural icons. In between recording the second and this, the third album with Egg, Stewart played keyboards with Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, another seminal Canterbury band, contributing his incredible talent to the success of that ensemble. The album is a superb example of the Canterbury essence – strange haunting melodies, quirky rhythmic patterns and incredible virtuosic instrumental performances, spiced on top with a good measure of British humor. There is not one weak moment here from start to finish and the music stand its ground honorably, in complete disregard to the time passing by. A few notable guest musicians take part in the recording, including members of Henry CowFind albums by this artist (fellow VirginFind albums on this label label recording artists at the time) and guitarist Steve HillageFind albums by this artist. This album is an absolute must to every Canterbury fan!
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  | DAEVID ALLEN ~ GOOD MORNING
ESOTERIC 2004 (Barcode: 5013929710429) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2007
Following his departure from GongFind albums by this artist, the legendary British ensemble he formed and led for many years, singer / guitarist / songwriter Daevid AllenFind albums by this artist started his solo career with the release of this album. It was recorded at his home studio in Mallorca, accompanied by the Spanish group EuterpeFind albums by this artist and his faithful companion Gilli SmythFind albums by this artist. This album sets the direction for Allen´s future work, which would be a unique cross-genre amalgam of Psychedelia, Ambient, Jazz and everything else, which is always uniquely Daevid Allen. A great trip down the memory lane!
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  | MARSUPILAMI ~ ARENA
ESOTERIC 2007 (Barcode: 5013929710726) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007
2nd and last album by British Prog / Jazz-Rock band MarsupilamiFind albums by this artist, one of the best kept secrets of the burgeoning local scene form the late 1960s / early 1970s. The band was a sextet, which played only original, highly complex music strongly Jazz influenced. All the musicians were excellent instrumentalists and the long instrumental passages are all very interesting. A female flute player, who also sang backing vocals, completed the bill, which adds another interesting layer to the music. Altogether it is pretty amazing that this group is almost completely unknown, even by the hard-core Prog fans, as this stunning album is as good as any of the albums released at the time by groups that turned into legends. After being lost for so many years, now the new generation of Prog fans is able to rediscover and enjoy this band, as it surely deserves a much wider recognition.
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  | HEAVEN ~ BRASS ROCK 1
ESOTERIC 2030 (Barcode: 5013929713024) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
Only album recorded by the obscure British Jazz-Rock ensemble HeavenFind albums by this artist, which existed for a brief period of time managing several festival appearances and recording of this splendid album before they disbanded. The group was a nonet with a lead singer, rhythm section and a five piece brass section, which made them one of the first full-scale Brass-Rock ensembles in UK, expanding the format of US bands like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist and ChicagoFind albums by this artist. The material is typical Brass-Rock of the period, with strong melody lines and complex brass arrangements, guitar solos on top brass vamping and strong throaty vocals. It´s pretty amazing that this album is rarely mentioned as a classic of the Brass-Rock sub-genre, as it truly excellent in every respect. Hopefully this reissue will bring it out to the open and help in achieving the proper recognition. An absolute must for every Brass-Rock and Jazz-Rock fan!
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  | EAST OF EDEN ~ SNAFU
ESOTERIC 2034 (Barcode: 5013929713420) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
2nd album by one of the most fascinating early British Prog / Jazz-Rock bands East Of EdenFind albums by this artist, co-led by violinist Dave ArbusFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Ron CainesFind albums by this artist and including guitarist Geoff NicholsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Andy SneddonFind albums by this artist and drummer Geoff BrittonFind albums by this artist. The band played a completely unique amalgam of Rock, Jazz and World Music (in fact they were amongst the first bands to incorporate exotic melodies and rhythm patterns borrowed from distant cultures). The resulting material is truly mesmerizing, switching rapidly between purely melodic passages into electrifying improvisations, sometimes almost free form. In retrospect this is definitely one of the more accomplished works recorded at the time, still completely relevant four decades later. The extensive bonus material includes the tracks recorded for an aborted album, as well as the bands unexpected hit “Jig-a-Jig”, which was their only, albeit short lived, flirt with commercial success. A classic of the genre and a must in any serious record collection!
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  | 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.
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  | KHAN ~ SPACE SHANTY
ESOTERIC 2046 (Barcode: 5013929714625) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2008
Only album recorded by the short-lived Canterbury group KhanFind albums by this artist, which was fronted by guitarist Steve HillageFind albums by this artist and included keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist (who was a member of EggFind albums by this artist, another Canterbury group, at the time), bassist Nick GreenwoodFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric PeacheyFind albums by this artist, which turned out to be the first major exposure of Hillage´s considerable talents as a guitarist and composer. Later on Hillage joined GongFind albums by this artist and then released a series of excellent solo albums, but here he unveils his superb guitar work for the first time, playing a series of tunes he composed. The music is typical Canterbury mixture of Rock, Jazz and Psychedelic influences, beautifully executed and full of wit and inspiration. Stewart´s keyboards work is excellent as always and the entire album retains its original charm untouched by the passing time. The album was one of the most sought after collectors´ items for many years until reissued on CD and is considered a classic Canterbury release. A must to all Canterbury fans!
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  | GILES, GILES & FRIPP ~ THE CHEERFUL INSANITY OF
ESOTERIC 2049 (Barcode: 5013929714922) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2008
This is the only formally released album by this trio, which included brothers Peter GilesFind albums by this artist (bass) and Mike GilesFind albums by this artist (drums) and legendary guitarist Robert FrippFind albums by this artist, which in retrospect turned out to be one of the most pivotal albums in the history of Rock. Not only did it outline the foundations on which King CrimsonFind albums by this artist was to be based musically, but it also marked the birth of Prog or rather the transition between the Psychedelic and the Progressive Rock genres. The music is excellent of course, with Fripp`s guitar prominently featured. There are some Psychedelic elements but also a lot of jazz influences and a lot of the typical British whacky humor. This is essential Prog history!
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  | KEEF HARTLEY BAND ~ HALFBREED
ESOTERIC 2050 (Barcode: 5013929715028) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
1st album by the excellent Keef Hartley BandFind albums by this artist, one the best Blues / Rock / Jazz ensembles ever, founded by drummer Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist following his stint with John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist. The band featured a nucleus consisting of singer / guitarist Miller AndersonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Spit JamesFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Peter DinesFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary ThainFind albums by this artist and Hartley on drums. In addition a horn section was added to expand the band´s sound, which on this album consisted of the best horn players in Britain: trumpeters Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Harry BecketFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Lynn DobsonFind albums by this artist and Chris MercerFind albums by this artist. Together this nine-piece band had a tremendous power and considering the quality of its members it was simply the best "little Big Band" around at the time. Hartley´s sensitive drumming drives the music through a set of fantastically well written and superbly arranged tunes, which are Blues based but extend often into Rock and Jazz. The guitar work is stunning, the brass arrangement just right on the money, in short heaven on earth for any Blues fan, but basically early Jazz-Rock Fusion enthusiasts will find here everything they need to make them happy. Definitely a classic of the genre and an essential piece of music if ever there was one!
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  | KEEF HARTLEY BAND ~ LITTLE BIG BAND
ESOTERIC 2051 (Barcode: 5013929715127) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
5th album by the excellent Keef Hartley BandFind albums by this artist, one the best Blues / Rock / Jazz ensembles ever, founded by drummer Keef HartleyFind albums by this artist following his stint with John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist. This live recording in London´s legendary Marquee Club is a most ambitious project the band undertook, expanding its personnel to a full scale Big Band of 16 musicians, which included the best Jazz players on the UK scene at the time. The entire project was prompted by an invitation from the BBC to record live and the bandwagon got rolling from there. Alongside the Hartley regulars the additional players include trombonist Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist and many more. Although the material is Blues based, in fact the orchestral arrangements and the entire concept is a tribute to great Jazz Big Bands, which were a great source of influence to Hartley. This is not only great music but also a great document of the times, when musical project could be made to come true regardless of their complexity and expense. Just sit back and succumb to the engulfing sound of the band in its full might – satisfaction guaranteed! Superb stuff!
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  | WEB ~ THERAPHOSA BLONDI
ESOTERIC 2055 (Barcode: 5013929715523) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
2nd album by the British band WebFind albums by this artist fronted by singer John L. WatsonFind albums by this artist. The band played a nice mix of Pop, Rock, Psychedelia and Jazz, which still sounds good today, but lacks a focal point, which they only found on their next seminal album. Apart from Watson, the band included guitarists Tony EdwardsFind albums by this artist and John EatonFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tom HarrisFind albums by this artist, bassist Dick Lee-SmithFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist / percussionist Lennie WrightFind albums by this artist and drummer Kenny BeveridgeFind albums by this artist. The great pianist Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist guests on one tune. The material is a mixture of originals and standards and overall is very well played. The late 1960s sound and production create that sound, which unfortunately is lost forever, which is another good reason to give this album a spin. Recommended!
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  | SUPERSISTER ~ PRESENT FROM NANCY
ESOTERIC 2056 (Barcode: 5013929715622) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
1st album by the brilliant Dutch band SupersisterFind albums by this artist, which almost singlehandedly were Europe´s answer to the British Canterbury scene. Often compared to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (circa "ThirdFind albums with this title"), in fact the group is more comparable to later Canterbury groups like Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist and even later CaravanFind albums by this artist, although chronologically they preceded these groups by several years. Obviously influenced by Soft Machine´s jazzy free improvisational excursions, the band was also influenced by many other experimental Rock (Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist), Jazz musicians and contemporary Classical composers. With the European Jazz scene rapidly developing to emancipate itself from the half-decade American domination, with Holland as one of the epicenters of the new European Jazz, the band was a reflection of the trends by the young European musicians to go elsewhere in search of their musical ventures. The stunning debut album by Supersister is a great example of spontaneity, daring and complete disregard for commercial consideration, all these of course on top of amazing talent and musicianship of its four band members. Similar to early Soft Machine the band did not include a guitarist, so the soloing is mostly done by the keyboardist and flute player, but the bass player and drummer had also a most significant role. Altogether this is a magnificent piece of music and a stunning debut album, worthy of an honorable place in any serious music collection. Essential listening experience!
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  | SUPERSISTER ~ TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER
ESOTERIC 2057 (Barcode: 5013929715721) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
2nd album by the brilliant Dutch band SupersisterFind albums by this artist, which almost singlehandedly were Europe´s answer to the British Canterbury scene. Often compared to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (circa "ThirdFind albums with this title"), in fact the group is more comparable to later Canterbury groups like Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist and even later CaravanFind albums by this artist, although chronologically they preceded these groups by several years. Obviously influenced by Soft Machine´s jazzy free improvisational excursions, the band was also influenced by many other experimental Rock (Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist), Jazz musicians and contemporary Classical composers. This follow up to their stunning debut is every bit as excellent and its release established the group as one of the most important European Jazz-Rock acts. Full of great melody lines, quirky rhythm changes and exceptional sensitivity, this is a true gem, always worthy of returning to. Essential listening experience!
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  | SUPERSISTER ~ ISKANDER
ESOTERIC 2058 (Barcode: 5013929715820) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2008
4th and last album by the brilliant Dutch band SupersisterFind albums by this artist, which almost singlehandedly were Europe´s answer to the British Canterbury scene. Often compared to Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (circa "ThirdFind albums with this title"), in fact the group is more comparable to later Canterbury groups like Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist and even later CaravanFind albums by this artist, although chronologically they preceded these groups by several years. Obviously influenced by Soft Machine´s jazzy free improvisational excursions, the band was also influenced by many other experimental Rock (Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist), Jazz musicians and contemporary Classical composers. Following the recording of the previous album, the band´s flautist and drummer left to pursue their careers were replaced by a new drummer and the great American-born but living in Europe saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist. Naturally as the result the band´s music became even more Jazzy. The album was recorded in England (with some guest musicians) and this time it was a concept work dedicated to Alexander the Great. Unfortunately soon after the album was recorded Mariano left and the group disbanded, after the legendary Elton DeanFind albums by this artist played with tem for a while, leaving us the legacy of four wonderful albums.
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  | WALRUS ~ WALRUS
ESOTERIC 2071 (Barcode: 5013929717121) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
Only album by British Jazz-Rock octet WalrusFind albums by this artist, which was one of the first full-blown British Jazz-Rock ensembles modeled after the American counterparts like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist and ChicagoFind albums by this artist. Although not as sophisticated as IfFind albums by this artist, the other British ensemble following the same path, Walrus was nevertheless quite excellent as well and it is a great pity they didn´t manage to record more albums. Formed by bassist Steve HawthornFind albums by this artist, who also wrote the bulk of their material, the band was fronted by vocalist Noel GreenawayFind albums by this artist and included guitarist John ScatesFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Barry ParfittFind albums by this artist and drummer Nick GabbFind albums by this artist (or Roger HarrisonFind albums by this artist) as well as a brass section with trumpeter Don RichardsFind albums by this artist (who was also in charge of the brass arrangements), and two saxophonists Roy VoceFind albums by this artist and Bill HoadFind albums by this artist. The music is all original except one track, which is a great cover of a TrafficFind albums by this artist song, and is all very interesting. In retrospect this is a true gem, which should have done much better than it did at the time and it´s a great pleasure to have it back in circulation. Considering the fact that Brass-Rock was relatively rare, this album is a must to every fan of early Jazz-Rock Fusion!
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  | WEST, BRUCE & LAING ~ LIVE `N` KICKIN`
ESOTERIC 2072 (Barcode: 5013929717220) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2008
3rd and last 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 live 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 compositions. People who like Cream´s live recordings, with expanded song versions, 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
This one is WBL´s “swang song”, the last albumn in the short life of this extraordinary supergroup. Recorded live in Orpheum Theater, in Boston, Masachusetts, the band includes four tracks: “Play with fire”, is a Stone cover and is reminiscent of the “Why Dontcha” cut “Love is worth the Blues”, “The doctor” the live version of one of the studio tracks on their debut albumn.”Politician!” is a good track and “Powerhouse sod” is a version with an absolutely mind bending bass solo by Jack.
I think that this work sholuld have been originally released as two-albumn set, incluiding “November song”,”Sifting sand”,”Out of the fields”, “Polution woman” and others. Four stars of five.
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  | 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!
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  | 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
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  | CLAIRE HAMILL ~ TOUCHPAPER
ESOTERIC 2077 (Barcode: 5013929717725) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2008
5th album by the wonderful British singer / songwriter Claire HamillFind albums by this artist, who recorded her first four albums in the early 1970s, which were beautiful Folk-Rock / Prog creations, and then disappeared from the scene for several years. She re-appeared in the early 1980s as the lead singer with the band Wishbone AshFind albums by this artist, and after leaving the band recorded this solo album. She delivers a set of great songs and is accompanied by many excellent musicians, but the album suffers from the 1980s production techniques, which soaked everything in cheesy synthesized sounds. Once these are (mentally) filtered out, the remaining content is excellent and memorable. Definitely worth checking out!
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  | STOMU YAMASH`TA ~ GO
ESOTERIC 2081 (Barcode: 5013929718128) ~ JAPAN ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2008
Japanese percussionist / composer Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist settled in England in 1972, after studying music in his native country and later in the USA. He worked mainly as a composer for theatre music, but his signing as a recording artist for the Island label brought his work to the attention of a wide audience following the release of this seminal album – a super project in every sense. "GoFind albums with this title" is a large scale suite, combining many musical elements, from Classical to Jazz, World Music and Rock. For the recording of this project the composer created a true super group, consisting of some of the best musicians on the scene, including British vocalist Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist (TrafficFind albums by this artist, Blind FaithFind albums by this artist), American drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist (SantanaFind albums by this artist) and guitarist Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist (Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist), German keyboardist Klaus SchulzeFind albums by this artist (Tangerine DreamFind albums by this artist) and many others. The orchestral arrangements were written by the wonderful Paul BuckmasterFind albums by this artist. The album is full of brilliant musicianship and the music majestic and mystical, flows serenely engulfing the listener into a trance-like state. In retrospect the entire work is a proud precursor of New Age music, which would erupt on the scene two decades later, but at the time it was innovative and quite daring in its scope, which cased it to be embraced by the Prog fans. Although the album was very successful at the time, it was unavailable on CD for many years and this new remastered edition is a most welcome dream-come-true to many Prog fans.
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  | STOMU YAMASH`TA ~ THE MAN FROM THE EAST
ESOTERIC 2082 (Barcode: 5013929718227) ~ JAPAN ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2008
Japanese percussionist / composer Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist settled in England in 1972, after studying music in his native country and later in the USA. He worked mainly as a composer for theatre music, but his signing as a recording artist for the IslandFind albums on this label label brought his work to the attention of a wider audience. This album was his 2nd release for the label, recorded with a Jazz oriented ensemble called Red Buddha TheatreFind albums by this artist, featuring bassist Alyn RossFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Robin ThompsonFind albums by this artist, drummer Morris PertFind albums by this artist, guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist and others. The music is a wonderful fusion of Western and Far Eastern elements as well as many cross genre excursions, from atmospheric ambient to high spirited Jazz-Rock Fusion. One track from this album were later included as part of the soundtrack of the movie "The Man Who Fell to Earth", starring David BowieFind albums by this artist, which made this album a sought after collector´s item.
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  | STOMU YAMASH`TA ~ GO… LIVE FROM PARIS
ESOTERIC 2086 (Barcode: 5013929718623) ~ JAPAN ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2008
Following the studio recording of the epic work "GoFind albums with this title" by the Japanese percussionist / composer Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist, the same cast of musicians embarked on a tour, performing the music live. The Paris performance was captured on tape and later released as a double LP, released here on single CD. The cast is a true super group, consisting of some of the best musicians on the scene, including British vocalist / keyboardist Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist (TrafficFind albums by this artist, Blind FaithFind albums by this artist), American drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist (SantanaFind albums by this artist) and guitarist Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist (Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist), German keyboardist Klaus SchulzeFind albums by this artist (Tangerine DreamFind albums by this artist) and several other backing musicians. In many respects the live recording is by far superior to the studio version, easily explained by the lack of time limitations and other constrains present in the studio. The soloists (and especially Di Meola, whose playing is truly inspired and Winwood, whose vocals soared that night) can stretch almost at will and considering the strength of the participating musicians they always receive a sympathetic and masterly support. The orchestral arrangements being replaced by synthesizer work also take off some of the studio version rigidity. In short this is one hell of a concert, one of those once-in-a-lifetime special nights. If you like the studio version of "Go", this is a must, if you didn´t, you still might find this to be great after all. Definitely worth trying out!
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  | STOMU YAMASH`TA ~ FREEDOM IS FRIGHTENING
ESOTERIC 2087 (Barcode: 5013929718722) ~ JAPAN ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2008
Japanese percussionist / composer Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist settled in England in 1972, after studying music in his native country and later in the USA. He worked mainly as a composer for theatre music, but his signing as a recording artist for the Island label brought his work to the attention of a wider audience, which later led to him forming the group East WindFind albums by this artist, which recorded this exceptional album. Combining forces with some of the best British musicians at the time, the band included Yamash`ta on drums and percussion, his wife Hisako Yamash`taFind albums by this artist on violin, guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist (IsotopeFind albums by this artist), keyboardist Brian GascoigneFind albums by this artist, and bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (Soft MachineFind albums by this artist). The music is a wonderful fusion of Western and Far Eastern elements as well as many cross genre excursions, from atmospheric ambient to high spirited Jazz-Rock Fusion. Although Yamash`ta became mostly known for the "GoFind albums with this title" recordings, which were done a few years later, this is truly his most remarkable album recorded for Island and the one that withstands the test of time most adamantly. Wholeheartedly recommended!
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  | HARDIN & YORK ~ THE WORLD`S SMALLEST BIG BAND
ESOTERIC 2090 (Barcode: 5013929719026) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
2nd album by the great British duo: keyboardist / vocalist Eddie HardinFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter YorkFind albums by this artist. Hardin was a superb keyboards player and his abilities were often compared to those of Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist (whom he replaced in the Spencer Davis GroupFind albums by this artist) and even Keith EmersonFind albums by this artist. His vocal abilities and his songwriting skills were also second to none. York, a Jazz influenced drummer (also from the Spencer Davis Group), was a perfect partner for Hardin´s extended keyboards (mostly the Hammond organ) explorations and the Jazzy atmosphere, which prevails throughout the album, which was recorded with just the duo and a string section. In retrospect this album stands against the tides of time perfectly, sounding today every bit as good as it did at the time of its recording, emphasizing the greatness of the British Prog and early Jazz-Rock Fusion in the late 1960s / early 1970s. Absolutely brilliant stuff!
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  | CMU ~ OPEN SPACES
ESOTERIC 2093 (Barcode: 5013929719323) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
1st album by the excellent British Prog band CMUFind albums by this artist (Contemporary Music Unit), founded by drummer Roger OdellFind albums by this artist and fronted by his wife Larraine OdellFind albums by this artist, a superb vocalist. The sextet also included bassist Ed LeeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Ian HamlettFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Terry MortimerFind albums by this artist and drummer James GordonFind albums by this artist. They played a highly ambitious blend of Rock / Folk / Jazz, with sophisticated compositions and complex arrangements, and although mostly completely unheard of, were one of the most intriguing bands at the time. Strongly rooted in Jazz, the band members were all excellent instrumentalists and the female lead vocals set them apart from most of their contemporaries. They were sometimes compared to the band AffinityFind albums by this artist, which was also fronted by a wonderful female singer Linda HoyleFind albums by this artist and had a similar Jazz background. Unfortunately this original lineup of the group fell apart shortly after this album was released, to reformed later on and record one more album. This little known gem is a must to any serious Prog and early British Jazz-Rock enthusiast.
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  | MARSUPILAMI ~ MARSUPILAMI
ESOTERIC 2095 (Barcode: 5013929719521) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2008
1st album by British Prog / Jazz-Rock band MarsupilamiFind albums by this artist, one of the best kept secrets of the burgeoning local scene form the late 1960s / early 1970s. The band was a sextet, which played only original, highly complex music strongly Jazz influenced. All the musicians were excellent instrumentalists and the long instrumental passages are all very interesting. A female flute player, who also sang backing vocals, completed the bill, which adds another interesting layer to the music. Altogether it is pretty amazing that this group is almost completely unknown, even by the hard-core Prog fans, as this stunning debut album is as good as any of the debuts released at the time by groups that turned into legends. After being lost for so many years, now the new generation of Prog fans is able to rediscover and enjoy this band, as it surely deserves a much wider recognition.
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  | NEIL ARDLEY ~ HARMONY OF THE SPHERES
ESOTERIC 2096 (Barcode: 5013929719620) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2008
Composer / arranger / bandleader Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist was one of the brightest stars on the firmament of the magnificent British Jazz, which flourished in the 1960s and 1970s. His compositions were often performed by his peers and his magnificent recordings as a leader were musical milestones, cherished and admired to this very day. Sadly, his recorded legacy is rather limited and parts of it remain unreleased on CD, which is a true crime. Therefore any reissue of his music is a true feast and celebration.
This album represent´s Ardley´s late period as active musician, shortly before he left the music scene almost for good, dedicating the later part of his life to writing books. It is also a clear symbol of Ardley´s transition as a composer, moving gradually from traditional Jazz forms to quite revolutionary contemporary Classical / Electronic / Ambient music, which although still contained strong Jazz elements (mainly improvised sections), was nevertheless a completely new compositional entity. As most of his ambitious compositions, the music is presented in a form of an extended suite, which makes a coherent whole and being divided into separate sections to emphasize the internal flow of the music.
Ardley recruited a group of eleven musicians to record the album and as usual turned to his life-long friend and collaborator, trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist to become the main protagonist. The list of the participants reads like a dream come true of the British Jazz scene and includes reed players Tony CoeFind albums by this artist and Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist, drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Geoff CastleFind albums by this artist and vocalists Pepi LemerFind albums by this artist and Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist. Lesser known but no less talented contributors include bassist Bill KristianFind albums by this artist and drummer Richard BurgessFind albums by this artist. Guitarist John MartynFind albums by this artist is the surprising guest, who closes the list of participating musicians, and although primarily associated with Folk, delivers some heartbreaking guitar solos on this album. People familiar with these names will of course recognize the fact that most of these musicians were associated at one time or another with Ian Carr as members of his NucleusFind albums by this artist ensemble.
In retrospect this album remains a major milestone of British music and a firm reminder of Ardley´s genius. Ardley, who died in 2004 (aged 66) will forever be a landmark figure and hopefully the younger generation will discover his magnificent music thank to reissues, like this one. An absolute must!
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  | ARC ~ …AT THIS
ESOTERIC 2097 (Barcode: 5013929719729) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2009
Only album by British Prog group ArcFind albums by this artist, which is a typical early Prog effort full of excellent ideas and interesting playing, which didn´t met with a particular interest at the time of its release and was discovered years later by connoisseurs of the genre, becoming a rare collectors´ item. The band was formed by guitarist John TurnbullFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Mick GallagherFind albums by this artist and included also bassist Tom DuffyFind albums by this artist and drummer David MontgomeryFind albums by this artist. The album includes several extended tracks featuring heavy guitar and keyboards work with the rest of the material being less complex, but still quite interesting. In retrospect this is one more lost gem of the period, which deserves a renewed listening opportunity, especially by people who like to dig deeply into the history of early Prog. Recommended!
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  | GALLIARD ~ STRANGE PLEASURE
ESOTERIC 2098 (Barcode: 5013929719828) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2009
1st album by the brilliant British early Jazz-Rock Fusion band GalliardFind albums by this artist, which somehow slipped into obscurity in spite of the fact that they were as good as any of the famous bands of the genre, which enjoyed enormous success, like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist for example. The band comprised of trumpeter Dave CaswellFind albums by this artist (who composed 2 of the tracks on this album, guitarist / vocalist Geoff BrownFind albums by this artist (who composed the rest of the material), bassist Andy AbbottFind albums by this artist, lead guitarist Richard PannelFind albums by this artist, drummer Les PodrazaFind albums by this artist and saxophonist John SmithFind albums by this artist, but was expanded by additional brass players during the recording session: saxophonist Lyle JenkinsFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, trombonist John HughesFind albums by this artist and others. The music is excellent, typical of the era, with unexpected turns and twists and superb brass arrangements, often quite complex and always beautifully executed. This is a true lost gem and Jazz-Rock Fusion / Prog fans not familiar with this heavenly music should embrace it with joy. Most warmly recommended!
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  | GALLIARD ~ NEW DAWN
ESOTERIC 2099 (Barcode: 5013929719927) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2009
2nd and last album by the brilliant British early Jazz-Rock Fusion band GalliardFind albums by this artist, which somehow slipped into obscurity in spite of the fact that they were as good as any of the famous bands of the genre, which enjoyed enormous success, like Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist for example. The band comprised of trumpeter Dave CaswellFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist Geoff BrownFind albums by this artist (who composed all the material), bassist Andy AbbottFind albums by this artist, lead guitarist Richard PannelFind albums by this artist, drummer Les PodrazaFind albums by this artist and saxophonist John SmithFind albums by this artist, but was expanded by additional brass players during the recording session: saxophonist Lyle JenkinsFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, trombonist John HughesFind albums by this artist and others. The music is excellent, typical of the era, with unexpected turns and twists and superb brass arrangements, often quite complex and always beautifully executed. This is a true lost gem and Jazz-Rock Fusion / Prog fans not familiar with this heavenly music should embrace it with joy. Most warmly recommended!
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  | JACK BRUCE ~ AUTOMATIC
ESOTERIC 2116 (Barcode: 5013929721623) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2009
This beautiful album by bassist / composer Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, one of the most eclectic and exceptional figures in music history has been a hidden jewel for most music lovers until the recent reissue. Recorded in the early 1980s, when Jack´s career reached a crossroad as far as his future musical direction was concerned, he chose a brave approach of taking some time to reflect and recorded this, perhaps his most personal album ever. Recently introduced to the new computer-aided music making technology Bruce decided to record a solo project on which he would play all the instruments himself and put the music together using the computer. The resulting album, released initially on LP only on the German market, includes some of the most wonderful songs Bruce has written during his long career, which are similar to the stuff recorded on his early solo albums. His unique and always astounding voice is heard here more vividly and up front that on many other recordings, which, of course, allows the listener to enjoy it in full. The instrumental work (bass, keyboards, harmonica, etc.) is also exceptional, as always in his case. The fact that this is the first time this music appears on CD is an act of criminal negligence, now finally rectified by this edition. An absolute must for all Jack Bruce fans!
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  | GILGAMESH ~ ANOTHER FINE TUNE YOU`VE GOT ME INTO
ESOTERIC 2126 (Barcode: 5013929722620) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
2nd album by the wonderful Canterbury scene iconic ensemble GilgameshFind albums by this artist, founded by keyboardist Alan GowenFind albums by this artist in 1972. Over the years the ensemble operated under a revolving door policy with lineup changes as frequent as gigging opportunities and the musicians changing places between groups like Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist, Soft HeapFind albums by this artist and other lesser known outfits. The list of ex-Gilgamesh members reads like a crème de la crème of the Canterbury Jazz / Rock scene. By 1975 the group managed to record their debut album for the VirginFind albums on this label´s esoteric imprint CarolineFind albums on this label, only to splinter again soon after. Three years later Gowen re-assembled a new lineup of Gilgamesh and recorded this album, which unfortunately was to be their last, with Gowen dying of leukemia in 1981 at the age of just 33. The players on this album are Gowen on keyboards, original Gilgamesh member guitarist Phil LeeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and veteran Jazz drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The music, written almost entirely by Gowen, is typical Canterbury mix of Jazz and some Rock influences, with extended improvisations and brilliant performances from start to finish. Gowen´s brilliant compositions remain unmatched and unchallenged in their harmonic beauty and sophistication. This is classic Canterbury stuff and it retains its vitality and importance with no signs of getting outdated. A must to any Canterbury or British Jazz-Rock enthusiast!
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  | NATIONAL HEALTH ~ NATIONAL HEALTH
ESOTERIC 2129 (Barcode: 5013929722927) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2009
1st album by the exquisite band National HealthFind albums by this artist, which was the last of the great original bands and the centerpiece crown jewel of the Canterbury scene, as it combined all the elements that made this musical excursion so unique and important, crystallizing a decade of development and constant search for new forms of musical expression. Formed by keyboardist / composer Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, who previously led such cornerstone Canterbury ensembles like EggFind albums by this artist and Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, combining musicians of the last and another sublime ensemble GilgameshFind albums by this artist, which also recently fell apart. After several personnel changes, the band stabilized as a quartet, including in addition to Stewart guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist, bassist Neil MurrayFind albums by this artist and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, all veterans and immensely gifted players. The album also includes guest contributions of other Canterbury luminaries, like Alan GowenFind albums by this artist (keyboards), Amanda ParsonsFind albums by this artist (vocals), Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist (flute) and others. Overall National Health was an ideal tool to deliver the intricate melodic content of Stewart´s compositions, spiced with lengthy jazzy improvisations, which could go on for several minutes and allow ample opportunity for the players to stretch out, probably more that in any earlier Canterbury ensemble. There is never a dull moment here, with ideas chasing ideas at all times and the listener is drawn into the music completely. This album is a timeless masterpiece and an essential cornerstone of any serious record collection!
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  | NATIONAL HEALTH ~ OF QUEUES AND CURES
ESOTERIC 2130 (Barcode: 5013929723023) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
2nd album by the exquisite band National HealthFind albums by this artist, which was the last of the great original bands and the centerpiece crown jewel of the Canterbury scene, as it combined all the elements that made this musical excursion so unique and important, crystallizing a decade of development and constant search for new forms of musical expression. Formed by keyboardist / composer Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, who previously led such cornerstone Canterbury ensembles like EggFind albums by this artist and Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, combining musicians of the last and another sublime ensemble GilgameshFind albums by this artist, which also recently fell apart. After bassist Neil MurrayFind albums by this artist left the band following the recording of the debut album, he was replaced by bassist John GreavesFind albums by this artist from Henry CowFind albums by this artist, another Canterbury icon. The album included several guest musicians, among them the superb trumpeter Phil MintonFind albums by this artist and overall it fallowed the same lines as the debut. Overall National Health was an ideal tool to deliver the intricate melodic content of Stewart´s compositions, spiced with lengthy jazzy improvisations, which could go on for several minutes and allow ample opportunity for the players to stretch out, probably more that in any earlier Canterbury ensemble. There is never a dull moment here, with ideas chasing ideas at all times and the listener is drawn into the music completely. This album is a timeless masterpiece and an essential cornerstone of any serious record collection!
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  | SOFT HEAP ~ SOFT HEAP
ESOTERIC 2131 (Barcode: 5013929723122) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
Only album by the great band Soft HeapFind albums by this artist, a short-lived Canterbury super-group where members of Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist – bass and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist – sax) met with pianist Alan GowenFind albums by this artist (GilgameshFind albums by this artist, National HealthFind albums by this artist) and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist (GongFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist). They managed to record just this one (eponymous) studio album and disbanded shortly afterwards, with each musician pursuing their own path. The band had all the qualities that make the Canterbury scene so special; superb musicianship, great compositions and a free spirit atmosphere with a dash of typical British humor. For specialists – the band´s name (second word) is an acronym of the band members´ first names. Considering the fact that Gowen, Dean, Pyle and Hopper are no longer with us (they passed away in 1981, 2006, 2006 and 2009 respectively) this is a tremendously important document of an era, which unfortunately is long time gone. A must for any Canterbury fan!
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  | SPOOKY TOOTH ~ CEREMONY
ESOTERIC 2133 (Barcode: 5013929723320) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2009
3rd album by the excellent British band Spooky ToothFind albums by this artist and definitely one of the boldest and daring experiments in Rock music not only at the time, but since, when the band decided to cooperate on this project with French Avant-Garde electronic music composer Pierre HenryFind albums by this artist, whose "musique concrete" was at the forefront of contemporary Classical music´s quest for new areas of development. The band´s main composer, vocalist and keyboardist Gary WrightFind albums by this artist wrote six new compositions, which together formed a sort of religious Rock Mass, which the group recorded in UK, shortly after replacing the original bassist Greg RidleyFind albums by this artist (who went to form Humble PieFind albums by this artist) with Andy LeighFind albums by this artist. Considering the group was in top form, following the recording of their excellent second album, the music they recorded is absolutely stunning and the level of musicianship is truly astounding. After the recording was completed, the tape was sent to France, where Henry overdubbed the group´s music with his electronic contributions. The resulting amalgam turned out to be one of the most controversial recordings of the era, tearing the band apart as a result and invoking heated discussions amongst the critics and fans alike. If one might speculate a bit, probably the group´s music released without Henry´s overdubs would have been considered as their greatest achievement, but since that never happened, we might never know. In fact I´m still hoping that such version of the album will be available one day, at least in the form of bonus material. Still, this is definitely an intriguing piece of music, which deserves to be listened to and studied, not only by the band´s hard-core fans but by any music fan with broad horizons.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FAT MATTRESS ~ FAT MATTRESS
ESOTERIC 2134 (Barcode: 5013929723429) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2009
1st album by British Prog band Fat MattressFind albums by this artist founded by Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist bassist Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist. The band included excellent musicians and managed to write excellent material, but didn´t achieve any commercial success, which led to its demise. This expanded version includes a plethora of bonus tracks, which includes singles and previously unreleased material. Although usually seldom considered as a classic, it is definitely as good as any other stuff recorded at the time and firmly belongs to the proto-Prog legacy. Definitely worth investigating!
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  | FAT MATTRESS ~ FAT MATTRESS II
ESOTERIC 2135 (Barcode: 5013929723528) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2009
2nd and last album by British Prog band Fat MattressFind albums by this artist founded by Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist bassist Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist. The band included excellent musicians and managed to write excellent material, but didn´t achieve any commercial success, which led to its demise. This expanded version includes material originally recorded for the band´s 3rd album, which was never finished. Although usually seldom considered as a classic, it is definitely as good as any other stuff recorded at the time and firmly belongs to the proto-Prog legacy. Definitely worth investigating!
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  | HATFIELD AND THE NORTH ~ HATFIELD AND THE NORTH (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2139 (Barcode: 5013929723924) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2009
1st album by the legendary Canterbury group Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, probably the most iconic and unsurpassed masters of the genre. Comprising of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, with guests like reedman Geoff LeighFind albums by this artist (Henry CowFind albums by this artist), vocalist Robert WyattFind albums by this artist and others, they recorded what is considered to be the ultimate Canterbury masterpiece. The album represents everything that the genre stands for: brilliant melodies, strange harmonies, superb musicianship, quirk rhythmic patterns and a good dash of British humor. It is difficult to pinpoint why this album and its follow up turned out to be the genre´s icons, but the fact that they are the first thing that come to mind when Canterbury is mentioned speaks for itself. Whatever the reasons, this is an absolute classic album, which lost nothing of its intrinsic beauty and musical perfection over time. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HATFIELD AND THE NORTH ~ THE ROTTERS` CLUB (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2140 (Barcode: 5013929724020) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2009
2nd album by the legendary Canterbury group Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist, probably the most iconic and unsurpassed masters of the genre. Comprising of keyboardist Dave StewartFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist and drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, with guests like Jimmy HastingsFind albums by this artist, Mont CampbellFind albums by this artist, Lindsay CooperFind albums by this artist and Tim HodgkinsonFind albums by this artist, they recorded what is considered to be the ultimate Canterbury masterpiece. The album represents everything that the genre stands for: brilliant melodies, strange harmonies, superb musicianship, quirk rhythmic patterns and a good dash of British humor. It is difficult to pinpoint why this album and its predecessor turned out to be the genre´s icons, but the fact that they are the first thing that come to mind when Canterbury is mentioned speaks for itself. Whatever the reasons, this is an absolute classic album, which lost nothing of its intrinsic beauty and musical perfection over time. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALQUIN ~ MARKS
ESOTERIC 2144 (Barcode: 5013929724426) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
1st album by the excellent Dutch Prog band AlquinFind albums by this artist, which enjoyed less popularity outside of their native country in comparison to bands like FocusFind albums by this artist, SupersisterFind albums by this artist or Earth & FireFind albums by this artist, but was by no means less talented or interesting. In fact many aspects of the band´s music, like their open-mindedness towards other genres like Jazz and World Music, as well as their instrumentation, which included woodwinds and brass and their love of improvisation, contributed greatly to their unusual sound and produced a beautiful effect. The music is full of unexpected developments, frequent tempo shifts and instrumental solos, all the elements that make music interesting. The overall effect is somewhat reminiscent of the music made by Canterbury Scene musicians, with Soft MachineFind albums by this artist often springing to mind. Nevertheless there is no imitation here whatsoever, as the musical ideas are fresh and unique. In retrospect this music lost nothing of its power or intrinsic beauty over the years and is still a most pleasant listening experience. A definite must to all Progheads!
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  | ALQUIN ~ THE MOUNTAIN QUEEN
ESOTERIC 2145 (Barcode: 5013929724525) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2009
2nd album by the excellent Dutch Prog band AlquinFind albums by this artist, which enjoyed less popularity outside of their native country in comparison to bands like FocusFind albums by this artist, SupersisterFind albums by this artist or Earth & FireFind albums by this artist, but was by no means less talented or interesting. In fact many aspects of the band´s music, like their open-mindedness towards other genres like Jazz and World Music, as well as their instrumentation, which included woodwinds and brass and their love of improvisation, contributed greatly to their unusual sound and produced a beautiful effect. The music is full of unexpected developments, frequent tempo shifts and instrumental solos, all the elements that make music interesting. The overall effect is somewhat reminiscent of the music made by Canterbury Scene musicians, with Soft MachineFind albums by this artist often springing to mind. Nevertheless there is no imitation here whatsoever, as the musical ideas are fresh and unique. In retrospect this music lost nothing of its power or intrinsic beauty over the years and is still a most pleasant listening experience. A definite must to all Progheads!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EARTH AND FIRE ~ ATLANTIS
ESOTERIC 2148 (Barcode: 5013929724822) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
3rd album by the legendary Dutch group Earth And FireFind albums by this artist, who were considered the "Continental" answer to Pink FloydFind albums by this artist and GenesisFind albums by this artist. The group creates here a full concept album (around the Atlantis myth), expanding further the Prog influence. Full of mellotron and some great guitar work, this is a typical symphonic Prog at its best. The female vocals fit the music perfectly and there is nothing else to do but to sit down, close ones eyes and dive deep into the music. A gem!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARMAGEDDON ~ ARMAGEDDON
ESOTERIC 2150 (Barcode: 5013929725027) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2009
Only album by the short-lived Prog / Hard Rock band ArmageddonFind albums by this artist formed by keyboardist / vocalist Keith RelfFind albums by this artist (founding member of YardbirdsFind albums by this artist and then RenaissanceFind albums by this artist), guitarist Martin Pugh (SteamhammerFind albums by this artist), bassist Louis Cennamo (Renaissance, Steamhammer) and US drummer Bobby Caldwell. With strong Prog / Blues / Rock background the group eventually opted for a heavy Hard Rock sound, which dominates this, their only album. The group folded shortly after the album was released, which was followed by Relf´s tragic death in 1976. The album is considered to be an iconic Hard Rock album, completely overlooked at the time, but now considered a classic. In retrospect it is definitely a milestone of the genre, emphasizing the saying: They don´t make music like that any more! For guitar freaks this is heaven on earth, but most Classic Rock fans should have a field day with this.
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  | STOMU YAMASH`TA ~ GO TOO
ESOTERIC 2151 (Barcode: 5013929725126) ~ JAPAN ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2009
3rd and last part of the "GoFind albums with this title" album trilogy by Japanese percussionist / composer Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist, recorded by an international group of musicians, many of which are celebrated and renowned by their own merits. The participants include guitarist Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist, drummer Michael ShrieveFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Klaus SchulzeFind albums by this artist and many more. The music is an eclectic mixture of ambient, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Funk and even disco, moving freely and smoothly from one genre to another in perfect harmony and somehow making perfect sense. In retrospect it becomes obvious that Yamash`ta was a visionary well ahead of his time, predicting a total meltdown of musical genres into a new amalgam. One thing is sure, it does sound today as good as it did at the time of the recording, which already proves its intrinsic musical values. Warmly recommended!
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  | MORGAN ~ NOVA SOLIS
ESOTERIC 2152 (Barcode: 5013929725225) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009
1st album by the excellent UK Prog group MorganFind albums by this artist, founded and led by keyboardist Morgan FisherFind albums by this artist, which also included guitarist Tim StaffellFind albums by this artist, bassist Bob SapsedFind albums by this artist and drummer Morris BaconFind albums by this artist. Fisher was influenced by many contemporary classical composers and not afraid to try the many electronic keyboards that just appeared on the scene, which of course is reflected on this album. Great compositions and beautiful performances dominate this sadly little known gem. By some strange coincidence the band recorded this album in Italy, where it was released by the local branch of RCAFind albums on this label Records. Although a second album was recorded, it was shelved by the label and released only years later. The band disbanded shortly after the album was released. In retrospect the album is quite impressive and years ahead of its time, with brilliant keyboards work and complex compositions. The extended suite, which gave the album its title, is an expanded multi-part musical journey, which occupied the entire B-side of the original LP. Definitely worth investigating and hopefully will be re-discovered by the Prog fan of today.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CAMEL ~ STATIONARY TRAVELLER
ESOTERIC 2154 (Barcode: 5013929725423) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2009
By the time the legendary British Prog group CamelFind albums by this artist recorded this, their their 11th album and last studio album by the original band, guitarist / composer Andy LatimerFind albums by this artist remained as the only founding member of the band. He used various musicians to record this album, including saxophonist Mel CollinsFind albums by this artist. The album is a concept project about the Cold War and was the last studio album the band recorded for the DeccaFind albums on this label label. In retrospect the album presents a set of splendid compositions, partly with vocals and partly instrumentals, which are well in par with the rest of band´s excellent legacy. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CAMEL ~ BREATHLESS (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2155 (Barcode: 5013929725522) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
7th album by British Prog legends CamelFind albums by this artist, which marks a transition period in the band´s history, which followed a five years of personnel stability and incredibly productive output, as documented by their albums released during that period. Prior to the recording of this album´s predecessor – "Rain DancesFind albums with this title" – founding member / bassist Doug FergusonFind albums by this artist left the band, leaving the remaining three founding members: keyboardist Peter BardensFind albums by this artist, guitarist Andy LatimerFind albums by this artist and drummer Andy WardFind albums by this artist in need for replacement. They soon found the incredibly gifted bass player Richard SinclairFind albums by this artist (CaravanFind albums by this artist, Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist) and also added saxophonist / flautist Mel CollinsFind albums by this artist (King CrimsonFind albums by this artist) as a permanent member of the band, making it a quintet for the first time, and this lineup recorded "Rain Dances". However, during the recording of "BreathlessFind albums with this title", Peter Bardens announced, that he´ll be leaving the group, which was a serious blow, considering his enormous input to the group´s creative process. The quintet lineup managed to record the album, with Bardens leaving immediately after. As to the music included on the album; at the time of its release it was considered both by the band´s fans and critics as disappointing and way too "commercial" in comparison to the band´s earlier efforts. In retrospect, although different indeed, it still preserves an incredibly high musical standard and integrity, both on the compositional and performance level, and suggests that it was rather the fans, who disliked change, then the band, which propagated change, which caused the fracture. There is no doubt that this album belongs to the proud heritage of music left to us by one of the best British Prog bands in the genre´s history. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CAMEL ~ THE SINGLE FACTOR (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2156 (Barcode: 5013929725621) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2009
10th album by British Prog legends CamelFind albums by this artist, which marks a transition period in the band´s history, which followed a five years of personnel stability and incredibly productive output, as documented by their albums released during that period. Following the departure of founding member / keyboardist Peter BardensFind albums by this artist soon after recording the album "BreathlessFind albums with this title", the remaining two founding members: guitarist Andy LatimerFind albums by this artist and drummer Andy WardFind albums by this artist (who could not participate in the recording of this album due to injury) recruited various session musicians like bassist David PattonFind albums by this artist and drummer Graham JarvisFind albums by this artist. Several guest musicians also participated, like guitarist Anthony PhillipsFind albums by this artist, drummer Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist, former Camel member keyboardist Peter Bardens and keyboardist Francis MonkmanFind albums by this artist. As to the music included on the album; at the time of its release it was considered both by the band´s fans and critics as disappointing and way too "commercial" in comparison to the band´s earlier efforts. In retrospect, although different indeed, it still preserves an incredibly high musical standard and integrity, both on the compositional and performance level, and suggests that it was rather the fans, who disliked change, then the band, which propagated change, which caused the fracture. There is no doubt that this album belongs to the proud heritage of music left to us by one of the best British Prog bands in the genre´s history. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CAMEL ~ I CAN SEE YOUR HOUSE FROM HERE (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2158 (Barcode: 5013929725829) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2009
8th album by British Prog legends CamelFind albums by this artist, which marks a transition period in the band´s history, which followed a five years of personnel stability and incredibly productive output, as documented by their albums released during that period. Following the departure of founding member / keyboardist Peter BardensFind albums by this artist soon after recording this album´s predecessor – "BreathlessFind albums with this title" – the remaining two founding members: guitarist Andy LatimerFind albums by this artist and drummer Andy WardFind albums by this artist recruited three new members to complete the new lineup: bass player Colin BassFind albums by this artist (Steve HillageFind albums by this artist), keyboardist Jan SchelhaasFind albums by this artist (CaravanFind albums by this artist) and American keyboardist Kit WatkinsFind albums by this artist (Happy The ManFind albums by this artist). The new quintet lineup recorded this album, with a guest appearance by Phil CollinsFind albums by this artist (GenesisFind albums by this artist) on one track. As to the music included on the album; although more consistent and ambitious than it´s predecessor, at the time of its release it was considered both by the band´s fans and critics as disappointing and way too "commercial" in comparison to the band´s earlier efforts. In retrospect, although different indeed, it still preserves an incredibly high musical standard and integrity, both on the compositional and performance level, and suggests that it was rather the fans, who disliked change, then the band, which propagated change, which caused the fracture. There is no doubt that this album belongs to the proud heritage of music left to us by one of the best British Prog bands in the genre´s history. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | IGGINBOTTOM ~ IGGINBOTTOM`S WRENCH
ESOTERIC 2164 (Barcode: 5013929726420) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2009
This fantastic album by the British quartet IgginbottomFind albums by this artist would have probably disappeared into oblivion if not for the fact that the band included the young guitarist named Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist. Many years later, following Allan´s fame and fortune, the fans unearthed this gem and tried and find it, which of course would have cost them quite a bundle, before this reissue came about. But background stories apart, this is a truly amazing album, unique and different from anything else recorded at the time and since. The band included two guitar players: Holdsworth and Steven RobinsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Mick SkellyFind albums by this artist and drummer Dave FreemanFind albums by this artist. They played original material, written mostly by Holdsworth, which was (sort of) song based, but in truth the "songs" were just a basis for extended guitar solos. Of course Allan´s guitar playing is simply marvelous, but the surprising element is his vocal performance, which is low key and suitable for this kind of Jazz oriented music. The material is experimental and interesting, shunning every clichés and convention. Of course Holdsworth fans will be terribly cross with me, but I will say that this is definitely some of his best playing. I might be of course blinded by nostalgia, since I did hear this music live at the time, but believe you me, this album smokes! Do yourself a favor – grab this beauty and listen to it, preferably with low lights and a good drink in your hand – you are in for a surprise…
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLASH ~ FLASH
ESOTERIC 2166 (Barcode: 5013929726628) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2009
1st album by the brilliant British Prog band FlashFind albums by this artist, formed by founding member of YesFind albums by this artist, guitarist Peter BanksFind albums by this artist, after he left the band following the recording of their first two albums. The band also included another ex-Yes member keyboardist Tony KayeFind albums by this artist, lead singer Colin CarterFind albums by this artist, bassist Ray BennettFind albums by this artist and drummer Mike HoughFind albums by this artist. In many respects Flash was what Yes should have become, at least in my opinion. Banks didn´t like the change of direction Yes were following, which although brought them fame and fortune, was for many of the early fans of the band (myself included) a huge disappointment. The pomposity and pretentiousness that Yes displayed in the years to follow was often pretty sickening and Banks was able somehow to predict that. Therefore the forming of Flash was a great joy at the time, as it truly followed in the footsteps of the two first Yes albums ("YesFind albums with this title" and "Time And A WordFind albums with this title"), which to this day are my favorite albums by the band. What makes Flash such a great band? Well, it certainly had all the right ingredients, both in its personnel, as far as musicianship is concerned and musical approach, following the development of the Prog movement in the right direction. Great melodies, brilliant performances, a balance of influences ranging from Jazz to Pop, all incorporated just at the perfect measure. This album has no weak moments, no unnecessary fillings, in short no bullshit whatsoever. Everything is just perfect as far as Prog is concerned. Over the years I enjoyed listening to this album countless times, never ever being disappointed and in time it actually grew stronger on me, surely in view of the realization, that they don´t make them any more. Essential music for body and soul!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WIGWAM ~ THE LUCKY GOLDEN STRIPES AND STARPOSE
ESOTERIC 2175 (Barcode: 5013929727526) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2010
7th album by Finnish Prog band WigwamFind albums by this artist, the most famous Prog act from that country, which is the second recording by Wigwam Mk II. Following the departure of two founding members bassist Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist and organist Jukka GustavsonFind albums by this artist, who gave Wigwam its distinctive sound and musical direction, the band had to reorganize and recruit new members, which of course also influenced their musical direction. The remaining founding members: vocalist Jim PembrokeFind albums by this artist and drummer Ronnie OsterbergFind albums by this artist recruited guitarist Pekka RechardtFind albums by this artist and bassist Mans GroundstroemFind albums by this artist to join the band for the previous album, and added a fifth member, keyboardist Hessu HietanenFind albums by this artist by the time this album was recorded. The revamped Wigwam, more Pop / Rock oriented than the original incarnation of the band, was still a formidable ensemble able of producing excellent music, and the album includes plenty of superb melodies and excellent musicianship, which are effective and memorable. Although initially the album was criticized for being overly commercial, in retrospect it is every bit as good as the other albums the band recorded, being simply different. This album was one of the very few Finnish albums to be released also in UK (on the VirginFind albums on this label label), shortly after it was released in his home country on the legendary LoveFind albums on this label label. A must for Prog fans!
| | Updated: 07/08/2020Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PEKKA POHJOLA ~ B THE MAGPIE
ESOTERIC 2176 (Barcode: 5013929727625) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010
2nd album by Finnish bassist / composer Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest Prog musicians of all times, who was a founding member of the legendary Finnish Prog band WigwamFind albums by this artist. Accompanied by the top Finnish Jazz and Prog players of the time: saxophonists Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist, Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist and Paroni PaakkunainenFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Bertil LofgrenFind albums by this artist, guitarist Coste ApetreaFind albums by this artist and drummer Tomi ParkkonenFind albums by this artist, the band performs music composed by Pohjola, which stylistically moves between Prog and Jazz-Rock Fusion. Pohjola´s extraordinary talent, both as a bassist and especially as a composer, were already magnificent at the time and would accompany him throughout his entire life, resulting in magnificent achievements, cut short only by his premature and tragic death in 2008. In retrospect this early effort is a milestone for European Prog and firmly establishes the superb Finnish contribution to the genre. This album was one of the very few Finnish albums to be released also in UK (on the VirginFind albums on this label label), shortly after it was released in his home country on the legendary LoveFind albums on this label label. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PEKKA POHJOLA ~ THE MATHEMATICIAN`S AIR DISPLAY
ESOTERIC 2177 (Barcode: 5013929727724) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2010
3rd album by Finnish bassist / composer Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest Prog musicians of all times, who was a founding member of the legendary Finnish Prog band WigwamFind albums by this artist. Accompanied by the top European Jazz and Prog players of the time: Swedish guitarist Georg WadeniusFind albums by this artist, Polish keyboardist Wlodek GulkowskiFind albums by this artist, French drummer Pierre MoerlenFind albums by this artist, Finnish drummer Vesa AaltonenFind albums by this artist and of course British guitarist Mike OldfieldFind albums by this artist and his sister singer Sally OldfieldFind albums by this artist, the band performs music composed by Pohjola, which stylistically moves between Prog and Jazz-Rock Fusion. Pohjola´s extraordinary talent, both as a bassist and especially as a composer, were already magnificent at the time and would accompany him throughout his entire life, resulting in magnificent achievements, cut short only by his premature and tragic death in 2008. In retrospect this early effort is a milestone for European Prog and firmly establishes the superb Finnish contribution to the genre. This album was one of the very few Finnish albums to be released also in UK (on the VirginFind albums on this label label), shortly after it was released in his home country on the legendary LoveFind albums on this label label. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN ~ THE CRAZY WORLD OF ARTHUR BROWN (DELUXE EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2178 (Barcode: 5013929727823) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2010
Only album by one of Britain´s most eclectic and often misunderstood recording artist, singer Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist and his first outfit appropriately called The Crazy World Of Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist, which to this day remains as one of the greatest early Prog / Psychedelic albums ever recorded. The group was basically a trio and included the brilliant organist Vincent CraneFind albums by this artist and drummer Drachen TheakerFind albums by this artist, Bassist Sean NicholasFind albums by this artist was used during the recording of the album, which also included brilliant orchestral arrangements done by Crane. One of the tracks of the album called "Fire" was released as a single and achieved an unexpected chart success both in UK and USA, bringing Brown and his mates a brief stardom status, but the band fell apart shortly after the album was recorded, sadly never realizing its full potential, which was truly amazing. Dominated by Brown´s frantic, but beautifully dramatic and virtuosic vocal delivery and Crane´s superb organ playing, based on Jazz influenced improvisations, the band sounded unlike no other band at the time. The music, written mostly by Crane with the exception of a couple Rock classics, is absolutely astounding and fits Brown´s lyrics perfectly. Brown´s delivery is theatrical and manic at times, but always sensitive and of outstanding quality. The album is a relic of the era and an absolutely essential listening experience. This deluxe edition adds a plethora of bonus tracks, many previously never released on record. An absolute masterpiece!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN / KINGDOM COME ~ GALACTIC ZOO DOSSIER (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2179 (Barcode: 5013929727922) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2010
1st album by brilliant British Prog band Kingdom ComeFind albums by this artist led by singer Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist. Following the collapse of The Crazy World Of Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist (soon after drummer Drachen TheakerFind albums by this artist was fired and replaced for a brief time by Carl PalmerFind albums by this artist, who together with Vincent CraneFind albums by this artist left the band to start the great Atomic RoosterFind albums by this artist) Brown started to put together his new band. Eventually he was joined by guitarist Andrew DalbyFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Julian BrownFind albums by this artist and Michael HarrisFind albums by this artist, bassist Desmond FisherFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin SteerFind albums by this artist, creating a superb outfit capable of playing outstanding music. Combining elements of Art-Rock, Prog, Psychedelia, Avant-Garde, Jazz and even Classical, this was music eons ahead of its time. This music is revolutionary and outrageous, intelligent and funny, full of complex compositions with frequent rhythm shifts and multi-melodic themes; in short dazzling every step of the way. Brown´s unique vocal delivery adds another dimension to the already multifaceted package. Sadly the music was not appreciated at the time of its release and only decades later discovered as a true gem, as rightly deserved. Brilliant stuff and a must for every Prog fan!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | WIGWAM ~ FAIRYPORT
ESOTERIC 2182 (Barcode: 5013929728226) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2010
3rd album by the Finnish Prog Masters WigwamFind albums by this artist (originally released as a double LP), marking the arrival of the group at a point of maturity after the initial period of searching for their unique voice, as reflected on their first two releases. This album is often considered as one of the finest examples of Finnish Prog and together with its follow up "BeingFind albums with this title" it presents Wigwam as one of Prog´s all time highest achievements. The band´s core: vocalist Jim PembrokeFind albums by this artist (a British expatriate living in Finland), keyboardist Jukka GustavsonFind albums by this artist, who was the band´s principal composer, bassist Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist and drummer Ronnie OsterbergFind albums by this artist are joined by several guest musicians, mainly guitarist Jukka TolonenFind albums by this artist, who often cooperated with the band, and woodwind / brass players, including Jazz saxophonists Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist and Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist, expanding the overall sound of the basic quartet. The compositions are all outstanding, moody and full of unexpected turns and twists. Superb instrumental sections allow all musicians to express their talents, often moving into lengthy Jazzy improvisations. Pembroke´s English vocals were a great asset for the group and contributed to their immense popularity outside of Finland. Almost four decades after this material was recorded, it still sounds fresh and exciting, ready to be discovered by new generations of music lovers. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | WIGWAM ~ BEING
ESOTERIC 2183 (Barcode: 5013929728325) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2010
4th album by the Finnish Prog Masters WigwamFind albums by this artist marking the arrival of the group at a point of maturity after the initial period of searching for their unique voice, as reflected on their first two releases. This album is often considered as one of the finest examples of Finnish Prog and together with its predecessor "FairyportFind albums with this title" it presents Wigwam as one of Prog´s all time highest achievements. Unfortunately it was also the last studio recording by the original lineup of Wigwam, with the second lineup changing considerably the band´s musical direction. The band´s core: vocalist Jim PembrokeFind albums by this artist (a British expatriate living in Finland), keyboardist Jukka GustavsonFind albums by this artist, who was the band´s principal composer, bassist Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist and drummer Ronnie OsterbergFind albums by this artist are joined by several guest musicians, mostly woodwind / brass players, including Jazz saxophonists Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist, expanding the overall sound of the basic quartet. The compositions are all outstanding, moody and full of unexpected turns and twists. Superb instrumental sections allow all musicians to express their talents, often moving into lengthy Jazzy improvisations. Pembroke´s English vocals were a great asset for the group and contributed to their immense popularity outside of Finland. Almost four decades after this material was recorded, it still sounds fresh and exciting, ready to be discovered by new generations of music lovers. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | RAMASES ~ GLASS TOP COFFIN
ESOTERIC 2184 (Barcode: 5013929728424) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2010
2nd album by the British Prog / Ambient outfit RamasesFind albums by this artist, which was a duo of Martin RaphaelFind albums by this artist and his wife Dorothy FrostFind albums by this artist, who took the ancient Egyptian names of Ramases and Selket. The album is considered a classic of Psychedelic and early Ambient music and features symphonic orchestra arrangements. A large team of musicians was involved in the recording of this album including members of the Royal Philharmonic and London Symphony Orchestras. In retrospect it is quite an achievement at the time, well preceding New Age by at least a decade. Definitely worth investigating!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | WIGWAM ~ LIVE MUSIC FROM THE TWILIGHT ZONE
ESOTERIC 2185 (Barcode: 5013929728523) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010
5th album by the Finnish Prog Masters WigwamFind albums by this artist (originally released as a double LP), marking the end of the original lineup of the band and recorded during their farewell concert tour. The band´s core: vocalist Jim PembrokeFind albums by this artist (a British expatriate living in Finland), keyboardist Jukka GustavsonFind albums by this artist, who was the band´s principal composer, bassist Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist and drummer Ronnie OsterbergFind albums by this artist is expanded to a quintet with guitarist Pekka RechardtFind albums by this artist joining the group. Soon after these recordings were made Gustavson and Pohjola left the band and it reformed a year later with new musicians replacing them. This album is a superb showcase of Wigwam´s live performances, being the band´s first live recording, as well as showing their musical influences, as the band performs several covers of material written by such diverse musicians as the BeatlesFind albums by this artist and the BandFind albums by this artist, in addition to their own compositions. Several of the tracks are expanded into long instrumental jams, emphasizing the improvisational skills by the band members. With strong Jazzy feel, this album gracefully moves between Prog and Fusion, to the obvious delight of the band´s many fans. In retrospect this album is a great document of the time, capturing the spirit as well as the sound of the most productive period in music history. Essential for all Wigwam fans, but most Prog and Fusion connoisseurs should have a field day with this beauty!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN / KINGDOM COME ~ KINGDOM COME (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2186 (Barcode: 5013929728622) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2010
2nd album by brilliant British Prog band Kingdom ComeFind albums by this artist led by singer Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist. Following the release of the debut album, the band´s personnel shifted slightly and Brown was joined by guitarist Andrew DalbyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Michael HarrisFind albums by this artist, bassist Phil ShuttFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin SteerFind albums by this artist, creating a superb outfit capable of playing outstanding music. Combining elements of Art-Rock, Prog, Psychedelia, Avant-Garde, Jazz and even Classical, this was music eons ahead of its time. This music is revolutionary and outrageous, intelligent and funny, full of complex compositions with frequent rhythm shifts and multi-melodic themes; in short dazzling every step of the way. Brown´s unique vocal delivery adds another dimension to the already multifaceted package. Sadly the music was not appreciated at the time of its release and only decades later discovered as a true gem, as rightly deserved. Brilliant stuff and a must for every Prog fan!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN / KINGDOM COME ~ JOURNEY (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2187 (Barcode: 5013929728721) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2010
3rd and last album by brilliant British Prog band Kingdom ComeFind albums by this artist led by singer Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist. Following the release of the second album, the band´s personnel shifted slightly and Brown was joined by guitarist Andrew DalbyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Victor PerianoFind albums by this artist and bassist Phil ShuttFind albums by this artist, creating a superb outfit capable of playing outstanding music in spite of the fact that they had no drummer and used electronic drums for the job – the first band ever to do so. Combining elements of Art-Rock, Prog, Psychedelia, Avant-Garde, Jazz and even Classical, this was music eons ahead of its time. This music is revolutionary and outrageous, intelligent and funny, full of complex compositions with frequent rhythm shifts and multi-melodic themes; in short dazzling every step of the way. Brown´s unique vocal delivery adds another dimension to the already multifaceted package. Sadly the music was not appreciated at the time of its release and only decades later discovered as a true gem, as rightly deserved. Brilliant stuff and a must for every Prog fan!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOB DOWNES / OPEN MUSIC ~ ELECTRIC CITY
ESOTERIC 2188 (Barcode: 5013929728820) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2010
Flautist / composer Bob DownesFind albums by this artist is one of the most creative and innovative figures on the British Jazz scene, with a wide scope of cross-genre contributions from contemporary Classical Music via Jazz and Jazz-Rock to Free Jazz and Improvised Music. Downes was an integral part of the late 1960s / early 1970s revolution, that emerged in British and European Jazz, emancipating it from years of American influence and domination, and participated in numerous seminal recordings made during that period. His many activities were usually executed under the loosely defined umbrella name of Open MusicFind albums by this artist, which varied from a trio to a large ensemble and as the name suggests was completely free from any stylistic or genre restrictions. After recording several albums for mainstream record labels in his early days, Downes created his own record label, called OpenianFind albums on this label Records, on which he releases his projects, being one of the first musicians to do so. By the early 1980s Downes moved to Germany, where he lives and continues his work today. This incredible album presents Downes as a composer of Jazz-Rock oriented shorter pieces, packed with energy and intricate arrangements. The list of participating musicians is awe inspiring, with some of the most illustrious musicians on the scene at the time, like trumpeters Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, Ian CarrFind albums by this artist and Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist and Ray RussellFind albums by this artist, bassist Harry MillerFind albums by this artist and many others. The music is brilliant, breathtaking and captivating. The virtuosic performances are ample expressions of the underlying musical currents and once immersed in the magic sound, the listener is completely absorbed and mesmerized. They don´t make music like this any more, that´s for sure. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOB DOWNES / OPEN MUSIC ~ OPEN MUSIC (DREAM JOURNEY)
ESOTERIC 2189 (Barcode: 5013929728929) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2010
Flautist / composer Bob DownesFind albums by this artist is one of the most creative and innovative figures on the British Jazz scene, with a wide scope of cross-genre contributions from contemporary Classical Music via Jazz and Jazz-Rock to Free Jazz and Improvised Music. Downes was an integral part of the late 1960s / early 1970s revolution, that emerged in British and European Jazz, emancipating it from years of American influence and domination, and participated in numerous seminal recordings made during that period. His many activities were usually executed under the loosely defined umbrella name of Open MusicFind albums by this artist, which varied from a trio to a large ensemble and as the name suggests was completely free from any stylistic or genre restrictions. After recording several albums for mainstream record labels in his early days, Downes created his own record label, called OpenianFind albums on this label Records, on which he releases his projects, being one of the first musicians to do so. By the early 1980s Downes moved to Germany, where he lives and continues his work today. This incredible album presents Downes as a composer of "serious" contemporary music, with the entire first side of the original vinyl album dedicated to a suite intended for a ballet performance, called "Dream Journey". In fact this album was intended to be entitled "Dream Journey", but the title never appeared on the album´s artwork and therefore it is referred to as "Open Music" (which was of course the ensemble´s name). The rest of the music consists of shorter pieces, the final of which is entitled "Electric City" – a name of another album Downes was working on at the same time. The list of participating musicians is awe inspiring, with some of the most illustrious musicians on the scene at the time, like trumpeter Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, saxophonist John WarrenFind albums by this artist, guitarist Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist, bassist Harry MillerFind albums by this artist, drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist and many others. The music, although difficult at times, is breathtaking and captivating. The virtuosic performances are ample expressions of the underlying musical currents and once immersed in the magic sound, the listener is completely absorbed and mesmerized. They don´t make music like this any more, that´s for sure. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ BUNDLES
ESOTERIC 2196 (Barcode: 5013929729629) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft Machine switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end. But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock. This was the first of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist helps out on one tune. The music is quite different from anything the band recorded previously, based upon shorter and beautifully composed melody lines. There is still plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized. Holdsworth delivers some of his best playing to date but the overall level of musicianship is astounding. In retrospect this is still one of the best British Jazz-Rock albums and a magnificent piece of music history. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLASH ~ OUT OF OUR HANDS
ESOTERIC 2200 (Barcode: 5013929730045) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2010
3rd and last album by the brilliant British Prog band FlashFind albums by this artist, formed by founding member of YesFind albums by this artist, guitarist Peter BanksFind albums by this artist, after he left the band following the recording of their first two albums. The band also included lead singer Colin CarterFind albums by this artist, bassist Ray BennettFind albums by this artist and drummer Mike HoughFind albums by this artist. In many respects Flash was what Yes should have become, at least in my opinion. Banks didn´t like the change of direction Yes were following, which although brought them fame and fortune, was for many of the early fans of the band (myself included) a huge disappointment. The pomposity and pretentiousness that Yes displayed in the years to follow was often pretty sickening and Banks was able somehow to predict that. Therefore the forming of Flash was a great joy at the time, as it truly followed in the footsteps of the two first Yes albums ("YesFind albums with this title" and "Time And A WordFind albums with this title"), which to this day are my favorite albums by the band. What makes Flash such a great band? Well, it certainly had all the right ingredients, both in its personnel, as far as musicianship is concerned and musical approach, following the development of the Prog movement in the right direction. Great melodies, brilliant performances, a balance of influences ranging from Jazz to Pop, all incorporated just at the perfect measure. This album has no weak moments, no unnecessary fillings, in short no bullshit whatsoever. Everything is just perfect as far as Prog is concerned. Over the years I enjoyed listening to this album countless times, never ever being disappointed and in time it actually grew stronger on me, surely in view of the realization, that they don´t make them any more. Essential music for body and soul!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLASH ~ IN THE CAN
ESOTERIC 2201 (Barcode: 5013929730144) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2010
2nd album by the brilliant British Prog band FlashFind albums by this artist, formed by founding member of YesFind albums by this artist, guitarist Peter BanksFind albums by this artist, after he left the band following the recording of their first two albums. The band also included lead singer Colin CarterFind albums by this artist, bassist Ray BennettFind albums by this artist and drummer Mike HoughFind albums by this artist. In many respects Flash was what Yes should have become, at least in my opinion. Banks didn´t like the change of direction Yes were following, which although brought them fame and fortune, was for many of the early fans of the band (myself included) a huge disappointment. The pomposity and pretentiousness that Yes displayed in the years to follow was often pretty sickening and Banks was able somehow to predict that. Therefore the forming of Flash was a great joy at the time, as it truly followed in the footsteps of the two first Yes albums ("YesFind albums with this title" and "Time And A WordFind albums with this title"), which to this day are my favorite albums by the band. What makes Flash such a great band? Well, it certainly had all the right ingredients, both in its personnel, as far as musicianship is concerned and musical approach, following the development of the Prog movement in the right direction. Great melodies, brilliant performances, a balance of influences ranging from Jazz to Pop, all incorporated just at the perfect measure. This album has no weak moments, no unnecessary fillings, in short no bullshit whatsoever. Everything is just perfect as far as Prog is concerned. Over the years I enjoyed listening to this album countless times, never ever being disappointed and in time it actually grew stronger on me, surely in view of the realization, that they don´t make them any more. Essential music for body and soul!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ SOFTS
ESOTERIC 2202 (Barcode: 5013929730243) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft Machine switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end. But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock. This was the second of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, saxophonist Alan WakemanFind albums by this artist, guitarist John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist (who replaced Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist), bassist Roy BabbingtonFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. The last founding member of Soft Machine, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist left in the midst of recording of this album and his contribution here are minor. The music is a continuation of the direction set by its predecessor, based upon shorter and beautifully composed melody lines. There is still plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized. In retrospect this is still a very solid album by a great band and an absolute must to all Soft Machine fans.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | APHRODITE`S CHILD ~ END OF THE WORLD
ESOTERIC 2205 (Barcode: 5013929730540) ~ GREECE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2010
1st album by the brilliant Greek Prog band Aphrodite`s ChildFind albums by this artist, which was the first and to this day most famous band from that country to break the cultural boundaries and reach international audiences. Originally a quartet, the three group´s members: keyboardist and primary composer Evanghlos O. PapathanassiouFind albums by this artist (later to become the renowned VangelisFind albums by this artist), bassist and lead vocalist Demis RoussosFind albums by this artist and drummer Loukas SiderasFind albums by this artist, left their native country following the military coup d´état, which left Greece paralyzed artistically and culturally. The group wanted to reach the UK, but for various reasons got stuck in France first, where this, their brilliant debut, was recorded. A classic of the Psychedelic era and an early Prog attempt, this album remains to this day as a formidable achievement. Vangelis´ superb feel for melody and lyricism and Roussos´ extraordinary vocal abilities create a wonderful atmosphere, unparalleled by most other groups at the time. The group enjoyed a European mega-hit with the song "Rain And Tears", included here, but overall their music was not hit oriented and overtly much more ambitious that most of the hit songs of the era. It´s also interesting to emphasize the role of Greek folkloristic motifs present in their music, with the grand tradition of Rebetiko at the helm. Definitely worth discovering and a great trip down the memory lane sparkling with gems like this one!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | APHRODITE`S CHILD ~ IT`S FIVE O`CLOCK
ESOTERIC 2206 (Barcode: 5013929730649) ~ GREECE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010
2nd album by the brilliant Greek Prog band Aphrodite`s ChildFind albums by this artist, which was the first and to this day most famous band from that country to break the cultural boundaries and reach international audiences. Originally a quartet, the three group´s members: keyboardist and primary composer Evanghlos O. PapathanassiouFind albums by this artist (later to become the renowned VangelisFind albums by this artist), bassist and lead vocalist Demis RoussosFind albums by this artist and drummer Loukas SiderasFind albums by this artist, left their native country following the military coup d´état, which left Greece paralyzed artistically and culturally. The group wanted to reach the UK, but for various reasons got stuck in France first, where their brilliant debut album was recorded. They finally reached UK a year later to record this, their follow up. A classic of the Psychedelic era and an early Prog attempt, this album remains to this day as a formidable achievement. Vangelis´ superb feel for melody and lyricism and Roussos´ extraordinary vocal abilities create a wonderful atmosphere, unparalleled by most other groups at the time. The group enjoyed a European mega-hit with the album´s title song, but overall their music was not hit oriented and overtly much more ambitious that most of the hit songs of the era. It´s also interesting to emphasize the role of Greek folkloristic motifs present in their music, with the grand tradition of Rebetiko at the helm. Definitely worth discovering and a great trip down the memory lane sparkling with gems like this one!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FIELDS ~ FIELDS
ESOTERIC 2207 (Barcode: 5013929730748) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2010
Only album by the short-lived Prog trio FieldsFind albums by this artist formed by keyboardist Graham FieldFind albums by this artist after he left Rare BirdFind albums by this artist, following the recording of their first two albums, with guitarist Alan BarryFind albums by this artist and drummer Andy McCullochFind albums by this artist. Field, who was the main composer in Rare Bird, wrote all the music for this album, which in many respects could be considered as Rare Bird´s 3rd album. The trio had a great rapport between them and the album is really excellent in every respect. Field plays some amazing keyboards and McCulloch was one of the best British drummers at the time, so it´s quite natural that the album really works. In time the album was accepted as a classic of the genre and this new edition is most welcome. A must to all Progheads!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ LAND OF COCKAYNE
ESOTERIC 2208 (Barcode: 5013929730847) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2010
This is the 4th Soft MachineFind albums by this artist album released on the HarvestFind albums on this label label and the last ever record released by the band, bringing an end on a magnificent career, which spanned two and a half decades and resulted in some of the most important music ever recorded. But the truth behind the album is quite different from what appears on the album´s cover – the fact is that Soft Machine did not exist for some time when this album was released and this is a solo project of the last leader of the band, composer / keyboardist Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist. The decision to release the album under the band´s name is somewhat dubious. Nevertheless the connection to Soft Machine is pretty obvious, as this album features several of its ex-members and co-members: guitarist Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist. Jenkins added several other outstanding musicians to Soft Machine core: bassist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Dick MorrisseyFind albums by this artist, guitarist Alan ParkerFind albums by this artist and pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist. The music floats somewhere between Jazz and ambient music, with strong ties to contemporary Classical, emphasized by the string arrangements, and some World Music influences. It is a preview of the future work of Jenkins, who in the years to come established himself as one of British most distinguished contemporary composers. So is this a Soft Machine album? Who cares, the important fact remains that this is still great music, which holds water 30 years after it was recorded. Obviously hard-core Soft Machine fans might find it not to their taste, but it is here to stay as part of the band´s legacy. Deal with it.
| | Updated: 10/03/2023Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JUICY LUCY ~ JUICY LUCY
ESOTERIC 2215 (Barcode: 5013929731547) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010
1st album by the incredible British Prog band Juicy LucyFind albums by this artist, formed around the US lap steel guitar player Glenn CampbellFind albums by this artist, resident in UK at the time. The first lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also vocalist Ray OwenFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Chris MercerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Neil HubbardFind albums by this artist, bassist Keith EllisFind albums by this artist and drummer Pete DobsonFind albums by this artist. Heavily Blues based, the band expanded into Hard Rock, Psychedelia and early Prog, playing mostly original material and superb arrangements of standards. Campbell´s guitar work is simply stunning and miles above anything done at the time. Owen´s throaty vocals are superbly expressive, and all the other band members play incredibly well, turning this album into a timeless masterpiece. In many respects this album encapsulates everything that was great in music by the end of the 1960s: originality, innovation, guts and talent. Over 40 years after I heard this album for the first time it´s still one of my all-time favorites. Essential music for body and soul!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JUICY LUCY ~ LIE BACK AND ENJOY IT
ESOTERIC 2216 (Barcode: 5013929731646) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2010
2nd album by the incredible British Prog band Juicy LucyFind albums by this artist, formed around the US lap steel guitar player Glenn CampbellFind albums by this artist, resident in UK at the time. The second lineup of the group, which recorded this album, included also vocalist Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Chris MercerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Micky MoodyFind albums by this artist, bassist Keith EllisFind albums by this artist and drummer Rod CoombesFind albums by this artist. Heavily Blues based, the band expanded into Hard Rock, Psychedelia and early Prog, playing mostly original material and superb arrangements of standards. This album includes what is probably the best ever cover of Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist´s tune "Willie The Pimp", which is absolutely incredible. Campbell´s guitar work is simply stunning and miles above anything done at the time. Williams´ throaty vocals are superbly expressive, and all the other band members play incredibly well, turning this album into a timeless masterpiece. In many respects this album encapsulates everything that was great in music by the end of the 1960s: originality, innovation, guts and talent. Over 40 years after I heard this album for the first time it´s still one of my all-time favorites. Essential music for body and soul!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOFT MACHINE ~ ALIVE & WELL: RECORDED IN PARIS (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2234 (Barcode: 5013929733428) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2010
By 1974 the legendary Soft MachineFind albums by this artist switched record labels from CBSFind albums on this label / ColumbiaFind albums on this label (after releasing five magnificent albums on that label) to EMIFind albums on this label´s progressive HarvestFind albums on this label label, on which they would release the band´s last four albums before their epic story would finally come to an end (for the time being).
But the label switch was in fact only an exterior manifestation of the deep changes that the group was experiencing at the time. In retrospect, the four Harvest albums mark a completely new phase in the band´s musical direction, leaving behind the Free Jazz / Improvised Music extremes in favor of more structured and composed music, with strong melodic elements and almost mainstream Jazz-Rock sound. The most significant factor, which brought about the change, was Elton DeanFind albums by this artist´s replacement by oboe, saxophone and piano player Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist, who also became the most prolific composer of the band´s new material. The second factor was the decision to include a permanent guitarist into the band´s ranks, which was to change the sound significantly from Jazz to Jazz-Rock.
This, the group´s 1st formal live album, was the third of the Harvest albums, with the Soft Machine lineup comprising of Jenkins, violinist Rick SandersFind albums by this artist, guitarist John EtheridgeFind albums by this artist (who replaced Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist), bassist Steve CookFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. It was recorded live at the Parisian "Theatre Le Palace, Monmartre". The music includes material from the two previous Harvest albums, as well as previously unrecorded tunes. There is plenty of improvisation by the players, but it´s much more settled and well organized.
Overall, in retrospect this is still a very solid album by a great band and an absolute must to all Soft Machine fans. This expanded edition includes a whole second CD of previously unreleased material recorded at the same concert dates.
| | Updated: 06/07/2024Posted: | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIERRE MOERLEN / GONG ~ TIME IS THE KEY
ESOTERIC 2236 (Barcode: 5013929733626) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2010
This is the 2nd album by the band GongFind albums by this artist released on the AristaFind albums on this label label, which has musically almost nothing to do with the original band of the same name, after it was turned into a Jazz-Rock outfit by the then leader of the band, the French drummer Pierre MoerlenFind albums by this artist. Nevertheless, this incarnation of the band played some excellent music and was an important representative of the European Fusion movement and featured often some of the best players, mostly British and French ones. This album features such excellent players as keyboardist Peter LemerFind albums by this artist, bassist Hansford RoweFind albums by this artist and many others. The music is quite excellent all way through and any Prog / Fusion fan should have a field day with this stuff, which remains vital and challenging many years later. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ LOVE IS THE LAW
ESOTERIC 2239 (Barcode: 5013929733923) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2011
Following the demise of the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, British saxophonist / keyboardist / vocalist / composer Graham BondFind albums by this artist left the UK for a brief residency in US, where he recorded two little known solo albums, of which this was the first. Bond was probably the most influential figure on the British music scene in the mid-1960s, when he led a group consisting of the finest musicians in the land, which practically invented Jazz-Rock Fusion. Sadly his troubled personal life, which included mental instability and heavy drug abuse, prevented him from achieving the success he so richly deserved and eventually led to his tragic death. But his recorded legacy is with us forever and everything he recorded is worthy of attention. Bond played all the instruments on this album, except for the drums which were played by Hal BlaineFind albums by this artist, and composed all the music / wrote all the lyrics. The material is amazing, as always, with heavy Jazz influence, but also Rhythm And Blues and Soul references. Bond plays some extraordinary organ parts and his vocals are also excellent, probably the best vocal parts he ever recorded. Considering the fact that this material was not available on the market for over 40 years makes this reissue a momentous occasion. A must to the numerous Bond fans, wherever they might be.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM BOND ~ MIGHTY GRAHAME BOND
ESOTERIC 2240 (Barcode: 5013929734029) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2011
Following the demise of the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, British saxophonist / keyboardist / vocalist / composer Graham BondFind albums by this artist left the UK for a brief residency in US, where he recorded two little known solo albums, of which this was the second. Bond was probably the most influential figure on the British music scene in the mid-1960s, when he led a group consisting of the finest musicians in the land, which practically invented Jazz-Rock Fusion. Sadly his troubled personal life, which included mental instability and heavy drug abuse, prevented him from achieving the success he so richly deserved and eventually led to his tragic death. But his recorded legacy is with us forever and everything he recorded is worthy of attention. Bond is joined by a great set of musicians on this album: guitarist Harvey MandelFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Frank MayesFind albums by this artist, bassist Harvey BrooksFind albums by this artist and drummers Drachen TheakerFind albums by this artist (another British hero resident in US at the time) and Eddie HohFind albums by this artist. He composed all the music / wrote all the lyrics. The material is amazing, as always, with heavy Jazz influence, but also Rhythm And Blues and Soul references. Bond plays some extraordinary organ parts and his vocals are also excellent, probably the best vocal parts he ever recorded. Considering the fact that this material was not available on the market for over 40 years makes this reissue a momentous occasion. A must to the numerous Bond fans, wherever they might be.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SKIN ALLEY ~ TWO QUID DEAL
ESOTERIC 2244 (Barcode: 5013929734425) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2011
This is the 3rd album by the great British Jazz-Rock ensemble Skin AlleyFind albums by this artist, originally released on the TransatlanticFind albums on this label label after they left CBSFind albums on this label, which is considered to be their best and most consistent recording. The group members were all brilliant musicians and played several instruments each, which gives the music a wide scope and versatility. The music, composed mostly by guitarist Bob JamesFind albums by this artist and bassist Nick GrahamFind albums by this artist, is superb from start to finish. In short this is an excellent album in every respect and an absolute must to every fan of early Jazz-Rock / Prog on this planet. Unfortunately at the time of its release it gained very little attention and was quickly removed from the shelves, remaining a hidden gem for so many years. It’s great to see it back in circulation.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY WILLIAMS / LIFETIME ~ EMERGENCY!
ESOTERIC 2256 (Barcode: 5013929735620) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2011
This is the 1st album (originally a double LP) by the revolutionary Tony Williams LifetimeFind albums by this artist, a groundbreaking trio created by drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist with British guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and organist Larry YoungFind albums by this artist. The trio was a pioneering force of the Jazz-Rock Fusion and set up not only the standards, which would be followed decades on, but also most of the tricks of the trade for the new and emerging genre. The playing is absolutely incredible, innovative and virtuosic and the music lost absolutely nothing over time, in fact it sounds even better than at the time it was recorded, especially in comparison to contemporary Fusion efforts. This is one of the most influential albums in music history and an absolute must in any decent record collection. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY WILLIAMS / LIFETIME ~ TURN IT OVER
ESOTERIC 2257 (Barcode: 5013929735729) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2011
This is the 2nd album by the revolutionary Tony Williams LifetimeFind albums by this artist, a groundbreaking group created by drummer Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist with British guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and organist Larry YoungFind albums by this artist. On this album the group is extended to a quartet with the inclusion of another great British musician – bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist. The group was a pioneering force of the Jazz-Rock Fusion and set up not only the standards, which would be followed decades on, but also most of the tricks of the trade for the new and emerging genre. The playing is absolutely incredible, innovative and virtuosic and the music lost absolutely nothing over time, in fact it sounds even better than at the time it was recorded, especially in comparison to contemporary Fusion efforts. This is one of the most influential albums in music history and an absolute must in any decent record collection. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN ~ STRANGELANDS
ESOTERIC 2258 (Barcode: 5013929735828) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2011
The material included on this album was supposed to be the 2nd album by British singer Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist and his group called The Crazy World Of Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist. Although recorded shortly after the debut, it remained unreleased for almost 20 years and remains mostly completely unknown to most music lovers. The material is mostly Avant-Garde and years ahead of its time, so the fact that it was rejected at the time is no surprise, but in retrospect this is fascinating music. Emphasizing instrumental improvisations and a less harmonic music and Brown´s manic vocals the overall effect is absolutely stunning, somewhere between Psychedelics and Jazz. Several brilliant musicians participate, including legendary saxophonist George KhanFind albums by this artist and drummer Drachen TheakerFind albums by this artist. I´m sorry but I simply love every minute of this stuff and proclaim once again that Brown was / is one of the greatest British music geniuses in spite the fact that very few people share my view on this. Your loss mates!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Remastered 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 |
  | 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 |
  | ISOTOPE ~ ILLUSION
ESOTERIC 2273 (Barcode: 5013929737327) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2011
After playing with Brian AugerFind albums by this artist, Stomu Yamash`taFind albums by this artist and many leading Jazz ensembles, guitarist / composer Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, one of the most innovative and technically brilliant players on the British scene, eventually founded his own quartet, called IsotopeFind albums by this artist. In retrospect, Isotope was one of the finest early British Jazz-Rock ensembles, which played ambitious music and included some of the best players on the scene at the time. But as usual, playing fine music made it difficult to keep the group going for a long time, so after recording three excellent albums and sticking together for a few years, Isotope disappeared into oblivion. This was their 2nd album and the quartet included keyboardist Laurence ScottFind albums by this artist, great bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist (Soft MachineFind albums by this artist) and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist (Hopper and Morris played with Boyle in Yamash`ta’s group). The music is brilliant from start to finish, slightly resembling Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, but of course completely original. This is an absolute must to all early British Jazz-Rock connoisseurs!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ISOTOPE ~ DEEP END
ESOTERIC 2274 (Barcode: 5013929737426) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 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 3rd and last album and the group was expanded into a quintet and included keyboardists Frank RobertsFind albums by this artist and Zoe KronbergerFind albums by this artist, bassist Dan K. BrownFind albums by this artist and drummer Nigel MorrisFind albums by this artist (who played with Boyle in Yamash`ta’s group) as well as several guest musicians. 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 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | LOL COXHILL ~ EAR OF BEHOLDER
ESOTERIC 2275 ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2011
This is the debut album by British Avant-Garde hero, saxophonist / composer Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist. His activities over the years, sadly not often properly documented on record, show him as one of the most forward-thinking artists on the scene. His involvement with Rock and Jazz musicians alike show his versatility and complete disregard of conventions. A brilliant instrumentalist, Coxhill can truly move the listener and bring him to places rarely visited beforehand. This album, which collects many live performances and a few studio pieces, recorded over a span of one year, show Coxhill in charge of his element. The music is completely beyond classification, and probably extremely weird to an untrained ear, but to an Avant-Garde connoisseur this is heaven on earth. The original double LP was released on the legendary DandelionFind albums on this label label, co-owned by John PeelFind albums by this artist, and has been out of print for decades. This reissue is a most welcome act of recognition to the man’s great talent and a superb opportunity to rediscover this gem. A must to all British Jazz / Avant-Garde fans!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ACQUA FRAGILE ~ ACQUA FRAGILE
ESOTERIC 2277 (Barcode: 5013929737723) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2011
This is the 1st album by Italian Prog band Acqua FragileFind albums by this artist, led by the great vocalist Bernardo LanzettiFind albums by this artist, who later became the lead singer for PFMFind albums by this artist, the best known of the great Italian bands. Lanzetti´s vocals, sung in English, are of course the highlight of the band, but it also included four great instrumentalists and their material was truly excellent, from start to end, and in fact better than most. Often compared to the top British bands of the period, the band´s two albums are absolute Prog classics. Having been our of circulation for many years, this new reissue is a most welcome event, as every Prog fan will sure love to get his hands on this beauty!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ACQUA FRAGILE ~ MASS-MEDIA STARS
ESOTERIC 2278 (Barcode: 5013929737822) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2011
This is the 2nd and last album by Italian Prog band Acqua FragileFind albums by this artist, led by the great vocalist Bernardo LanzettiFind albums by this artist, who later became the lead singer for PFMFind albums by this artist, the best known of the great Italian bands. Lanzetti´s vocals, sung in English, are of course the highlight of the band, but it also included four great instrumentalists and their material was truly excellent, from start to end, and in fact better than most. Often compared to the top British bands of the period, the band´s two albums are absolute Prog classics. Having been our of circulation for many years, this new reissue is a most welcome event, as every Prog fan will sure love to get his hands on this beauty!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EARTH AND FIRE ~ TO THE WORLD OF THE FUTURE
ESOTERIC 2279 (Barcode: 5013929737921) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2011
This is the 4th album by the great Dutch Prog group Earth And FireFind albums by this artist, kept similar to their earlier efforts. After some personnel changes, the group is still fronted by the great female vocalist Jerney KaagmanFind albums by this artist and includes brothers Chris KoertsFind albums by this artist (guitar) and Gerard KoertsFind albums by this artist (keyboards), who are responsible for the music. At that point the group is still very much at its creative peak and constitutes a Continental answer to British Prog groups, which dominated the scene. This is a classic Symphonic Prog, with great melody lines and plenty of interesting instrumental work, which should keep every Prog fan happy. Definitely worth investigating!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | AARDVARK ~ AARDVARK
ESOTERIC 2286 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2011
This is the only album recorded by the obscure British proto-Prog band AardvarkFind albums by this artist, which in retrospect turned out to be one of the greatest early recordings of the genre. Guitar-less, the band was based around the fantastic sound of the Hammond organ, played by Dave WattsFind albums by this artist, and also included bassist / multi-instrumentalist Stanley AldousFind albums by this artist and drummer Frank ClarkFind albums by this artist. The founder and leader of the band was the vocalist / songwriter (who wrote all the music), Dave SkillenFind albums by this artist. The music was a wonderful mixture of adventurous Rock, Psychedelics, early Electronic adventures and some Jazz influences, together creating a unique bland, that was rarely achieved by other groups of the period. Soon after the album was recorded, the group disintegrated into the this air, leaving behind this obscure Gem, that was hidden from the public eye for over two decades and re-discovered in the 1990s as an extra-rare collectors’ item. Today the album is considered an integral part of any serious Prog collection, but is never easy to find. Grab it, if you can find it!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOCRATES ~ PHOS
ESOTERIC 2287 (Barcode: 5013929738720) ~ GREECE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2011
This is the 1st album by the great Greek Prog band SocratesFind albums by this artist, which alongside Aphrodite`s ChildFind albums by this artist was the most famous and successful band on the small Greek Prog Scene. The group, which started as a trio, recorded this album in London, where they were joined by keyboardist VangelisFind albums by this artist, who also produced the album. Although little known outside their country, they were truly great musicians and this album is still a minor masterpiece of the genre, losing nothing of its charm and depth over the years. A must to any serious collector of Prog albums, especially the more esoteric among those!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN ~ CHISHOLM IN MY BOSOM
ESOTERIC 2299 (Barcode: 5013929739925) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2011
This little know album by the great British maverick Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist was completely ignored at the time of its release, but in retrospect it shows how versatile and brilliant Brown was with everything he touched. Recorded on a tight budget, Brown was able to collect around him some excellent musicians, including old friend from The Crazy World Of Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Vincent CraneFind albums by this artist and ex-Kingdom ComeFind albums by this artist guitarist Andrew DalbyFind albums by this artist. Brown wrote all but two songs on this album (including the 23 minutes long title track), with Dalby contributing one and a new version of "I Put A Spell On You", which was also featured on his debut album. Brown´s vocal performances are, as usual, unparalleled and they always work for me. The music is perhaps less Prog oriented that the earlier solo and Kingdom Come material, but still is definitely worth listening to, especially if Brown´s enchanting voice and his unique dramatics are your cup of tea. A must to all Arthur Brown Fans!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMAN HAINES BAND ~ DEN OF INIQUITY
ESOTERIC 2301 (Barcode: 5013929431041) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2011
This is the only album recorded by the excellent British keyboardist / vocalist / composer Norman HainesFind albums by this artist and his band, which although being completely unnoticed at the time of its release, later achieved a legendary status, and rightly as it is really a lost gem. Haines, who was the leader of an earlier legendary band (with also had only one album), called LocomotiveFind albums by this artist, formed this band after Locomotive fell apart. It included guitarist Neil ClarkeFind albums by this artist, bassist Andy HughesFind albums by this artist and drummer Jimmy SkidmoreFind albums by this artist. Together they recorded this gem, which is a classic proto-Prog / Psychedelic minor masterpiece, with lengthy instrumental improvisations, great vocals and above all excellent melodies. An absolute must to all early Prog fans!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY BOYLE ~ THE DANCER
ESOTERIC 2307 (Barcode: 5013929430747) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2012
This is the 1st solo album by the excellent British guitarist / composer Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, recorded after his excellent group IsotopeFind albums by this artist disbanded. A brilliant guitarist, Boyle enjoyed success as a sideman both in the Prog and Jazz circles in UK, and the work with Isotope firmly established his reputation as a formidable Jazz-Rock Fusion player. This album, recorded with a dreamy team of superb players: keyboardists Zoe KronbergerFind albums by this artist (who also contributed two compositions), Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist (ex-Matching MoleFind albums by this artist) and Rod ArgentFind albums by this artist (ex-ZombiesFind albums by this artist), bassist Doni HarveyFind albums by this artist, drummer Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist and many others, is a classic example of the British Fusion, full of intricate melodies and virtuosic performances. There is not a dull moment here, from start to finish, and Fusion fans, who for some strange reason might have overlooked this treasure are about to discover a goldmine of pleasures. A must to any intelligent Fusion fan!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY BOYLE ~ ELECTRIC GLIDE
ESOTERIC 2308 (Barcode: 5013929430846) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2012
This is the 2nd solo album by the excellent British guitarist / composer Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, recorded after his excellent group IsotopeFind albums by this artist disbanded. A brilliant guitarist, Boyle enjoyed success as a sideman both in the Prog and Jazz circles in UK, and the work with Isotope firmly established his reputation as a formidable Jazz-Rock Fusion player. This album, recorded with an excellent team of superb players: guitarists: Robert AwhaiFind albums by this artist, Gary MooreFind albums by this artist and Kenny ShawFind albums by this artist, bassist Phil ChenFind albums by this artist, drummers Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist and Richard BaileyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Pete JacobsenFind albums by this artist and percussionist Simon MortonFind albums by this artist, is a classic example of the British Fusion, full of intricate melodies and virtuosic performances. There is not a dull moment here, from start to finish, and Fusion fans, who for some strange reason might have overlooked this treasure are about to discover a goldmine of pleasures. A must to any intelligent Fusion fan!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MATCHING MOLE ~ MATCHING MOLE (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2311 (Barcode: 5013929431140) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1971 - 1972 Released: 2012
This is the eponymous debut album by British Canterbury / Prog / Jazz-Rock ensemble Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, formed in 1971 by drummer / vocalist Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, after being kicked out from Soft MachineFind albums by this artist due to "artistic differences" between him and the other Soft Machine members, mainly as to the shift of the group´s music towards Free Jazz / Improvised Music. In retrospect it turned out that fate was about to play a trick with Wyatt´s ideas, as Matching Mole was about to embark on an almost identical path as Soft Machine. Of course, again in retrospect, the listeners got to enjoy the music of two superb groups instead on one. The name Matching Mole was a pun on the French for of Soft Machine – "machine molle". Wyatt was joined by brilliant Canterbury keyboardist David SinclairFind albums by this artist, who about the same time left the legendary CaravanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist (ex-DeliveryFind albums by this artist) and bassist Bill MacCormickFind albums by this artist. The group jammed in Wyatt´s garage for a few weeks and by the end of 1971 was already recording this debut album. Ridden by technical problems the recording took much longer than expected and the album was finally released in April 1972. A second keyboards player, Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist, took part as a guest in the recording sessions, and by the time the album was released he formally replaced Sinclair, who decided to move on to other things. Wyatt wrote most of the music on this album, which also features his wonderfully eccentric vocals. Stylistically the music is all over the musical landscape of the time, with ambient, Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion elements dominating the proceedings, but Wyatt´s classic ballad "O Caroline" is also included. This wonderful extended version sheds a lot of light as to the album´s recording sessions with a plethora of previously unreleased outtakes, as well as a couple of BBC recordings made at the time. Of course this is absolutely classic stuff, which should be part of the eternal music legacy as well as an essential part of every serious music collection. An absolute must!
| | | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MATCHING MOLE ~ LITTLE RED RECORD (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2312 (Barcode: 5013929431249) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2012
This is the 2nd and last album by Matching MoleFind albums by this artist, the seminal Canterbury ensemble formed by drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist, after he left Soft MachineFind albums by this artist. Although Wyatt was determined to start a solo career following his split with Soft Machine, Matching Mole was born and kept going for about a year, recording two legendary studio albums. Live performances and BBC radio recordings gave birth, decades later, to three albums, which consist of material from these sources and now the expanded editions of the two studio albums give us another two new CDs of Matching Mole material, all together 7 CDs worth of superb Canterbury stuff at its best. The lineup, which recorded this music, consisted of Wyatt, keyboardist Dave MacRaeFind albums by this artist, guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist and bassist Bill MacCormickFind albums by this artist. MacRae contributed or co-contributed most of the music on this album, with Wyatt taking charge of occasional vocal parts and lyrics. The music lost absolutely nothing of its freshness and the wonderful weirdness, which characterizes most of Canterbury output. Of course the genre would fully blossom only shortly after Matching Mole would be no more and its members would form such legendary groups like Hatfield And The NorthFind albums by this artist and National HealthFind albums by this artist. This is music straight from heaven, for listeners inclined towards the more sophisticated end of the spectrum, combining complex improvisation and quirky rhythmic patterns, which have no parallel anywhere. Of course this kind of music should be kept alive at all costs and this new edition does the job just fine, with a crisp new remaster and plenty of previously unheard stuff to make every fan green from ear to ear. Essential stuff for body and soul!
| | | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BAKERLOO ~ BAKERLOO (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2468 (Barcode: 5013929456846) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the only album by the obscure British trio BakerlooFind albums by this artist, which comprised of guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Terry PooleFind albums by this artist and drummer Keith BakerFind albums by this artist. The original album presented seven tunes, five of which were co-written by Clempson and Toole (and Baker on one of them), one was a blues standard and one was an arrangement of a Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist composition (the same composition was also recorded by Jethro TullFind albums by this artist and released as "Bouree" on their second album "Stand UpFind albums with this title"). This remastered and expanded edition adds five bonus tracks, which are a B-side, a couple of alternate tracks and a couple of previously unreleased tracks.
The music is floating somewhere between Blues-Rock and early Progressive Rock, featuring brilliant guitar work by Clempson, who of course was about to join Colosseum soon after Bakerloo disbanded and achieve world fame. The fact that this album was dug up is primarily due to the fact that Clempson plays on it, although with all fairness it is a solid release worth being remembered. The last track on the original album is an extended piece which last for about fifteen minutes, which of course hints as to the Proto-Prog connection of the band and its music.
The British Blues Revival produced hundreds of bands similar to Bakerloo in the late 1960s, most of which tried to copy bands which already achieved fame and acclaim, like CreamFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, Fleetwood MacFind albums by this artist, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Ten Years AfterFind albums by this artist and many others. Many of these bands never managed to make an album at all, many others recorded one album, like Bakerloo, which disappeared into the vaults of record labels, and are now occasionally rediscovered by reissue labels.
Guitar freaks will find this album highly exciting, as Clempson plays much more aggressively and prominently on this album than at any other point of his career, obviously due to the fact that he was the leading voice in this trio and there were no restrictions whatsoever. Some of his neck-breaking / hair-raising solos on this album are completely unrepeatable.
Overall this is a great trip down the memory lane and the remastered music sounds superbly fresh and is highly enjoyable, again emphasizing the fact that those were the most productive years in British (and worldwide) music scene, sadly long gone, albeit not forgotten. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 21/01/2017Posted: 21/01/2017 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FIELDS ~ CONTRASTS: URBAN ROAR TO COUNTRY PEACE
ESOTERIC 2488 (Barcode: 5013929458840) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2015
This is the second album by British Prog trio FieldsFind albums by this artist, led by keyboardist Graham FieldFind albums by this artist, which included guitarist / bassist / vocalist Frank FarrellFind albums by this artist (who replaced the original bassist Alan BarryFind albums by this artist) and drummer Andy McCullochFind albums by this artist. The recording of this album was interrupted after the trio was dropped by their label (CBSFind albums on this label Records) and the album was never released at the time. This release includes the eight tracks that the trio managed to record as well as the demos of three additional tracks that were made at the time. Nine of the tracks were written by Field and two were co-written by Field and Farrell.
The music is a wonderful amalgam of melodic songs and Jazzy arrangements, all masterly put together by Field and featuring his superb keyboards playing. This continued the approach Field already displayed as a founding member of the group Rare BirdFind albums by this artist, which he left to form Fields. The music also projected a typical "Englishness", which blissfully ornamented the output by many of the British Prog bands at the time, a quality that is impossible to describe and is only recognized by listeners familiar with the recorded work by these bands.
Sadly Field left the career of songwriting and performing as a Rock musician and British music lost a great composer and very unique keyboards player, who might have contributed many more splendid pieces of music, like those present here. Thankfully this lost gem is finally available for all Prog fans to enjoy, as usual better late than never. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 24/01/2017Posted: 24/01/2017 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ PROCOL HARUM (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2497 (Barcode: 5013929459748) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the first 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. This album´s lineup includes the five founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist, Hammond organist Matthew FisherFind albums by this artist, guitarist Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist, bassist David KnightsFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist. The album presents tens songs, nine composed by Brooker and one composed by Fisher, all with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. The UK version of the album did not include the celebrated single "The Whiter Shade Of Pale" (co-composed by Brooker and Fisher), which was recorded earlier with a different bassist and drummer, and which is included here in three different versions amongst the bonus tracks. This remastered and expanded edition adds ten bonus tracks (A & B sides of two singles and six outtakes and alternate mixes), one previously unreleased, and a bonus CD with seventeen bonus tracks, ten further alternate versions and mixes and seven live BBC recordings, with the seven BBC tracks being previously unreleased.
The musical direction of this album introduces the double keyboards dominating sound and the bombastic Blues based, Gothic and Psychedelic soundscapes, which characterize the first three epic albums by the group recorded in the 1960s, which started with the formative "A Whiter Shade Of Pale". This innovative sound and the typical British aesthetic approach, which was open already at these pioneering days to venture into early cross-genre explorations was what made this music so striking and irresistible.
If Procol Harum had only created "The Whiter Shade Of Pale" and then disappeared from the face of the earth, they would have earned fame and glory for posterity, as this is undoubtedly the greatest Rock song of all time. No other song written since managed to come even close to the majestic punch between the ears this song delivered to the human race. The fact that the group managed to follow their debut single with a long and exquisite string of albums and a career that lasts for over five decades is one of the most wondrous stories in Rock history.
It is important to understand that this album is a milestone in music history, breaking the accepted prevailing sentiment about (not-serious) popular music. It proves that popular music is capable of being as sophisticated, innovative and groundbreaking as Classical Music, which was considered up to that point as the only "serious" and artistically / aesthetically valid form of music.
The album still sounds great after all those years, and is a refreshing experience for people who have not listened to it for a while. It seems that most of what Rock had to say was more or less already articulated by the end of the 1960s. To the many fans of the group this is of course a must have item in their collections. An evergreen by all means and en essential Classic Rock / early Prog milestone!
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 01/02/2019 | CD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ SHINE ON BRIGHTLY (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2500 (Barcode: 5013929460041) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the second 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. This album´s lineup includes the five founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist, Hammond organist Matthew FisherFind albums by this artist, guitarist Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist, bassist David KnightsFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven songs, one of which is a five-part suite, five composed by Brooker and two co-composed by him and Fisher (including the suite), all with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. This remastered and expanded edition adds three bonus tracks (Italian version of the title tracks and A & B sides of a single), a bonus CD with mono mix of the album, which was previously unreleased on CD, and a second bonus CD with seventeen tracks, nine of which ale alternate versions and outtakes and eight are BBC recordings, those last eight being the only previously unreleased tracks.
The musical direction of this album solidifies and perfects the innovative and brilliant achievement of the debut album with the double keyboards dominating sound and the bombastic Blues based, Gothic and Psychedelic soundscapes present again, now brought to an epic climax, illuminating Procol Harum at their absolute best. The suite was one of the first attempts to present such complex and eloquent musical piece within the Rock idiom. In retrospect this album shows that the group was in a constant state of development, as all great Artists are. This album was also to be the most impressive of the trilogy consisting of the first three epic albums by the group recorded in the 1960s, which started with the formative "A Whiter Shade Of Pale".
It is important to understand that this album is a milestone in music history, breaking the accepted prevailing sentiment about (not-serious) popular music. It proves that popular music is capable of being as sophisticated, innovative and groundbreaking as Classical Music, which was considered up to that point as the only "serious" and artistically / aesthetically valid form of music.
The album still sounds great after all those years, and is a refreshing experience for people who have not listened to it for a while. It seems that most of what Rock had to say was more or less already articulated by the end of the 1960s. To the many fans of the group this is of course a must have item in their collections. An evergreen by all means and en essential Classic Rock / early Prog milestone!
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 01/02/2019 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ A SALTY DOG (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2503 (Barcode: 5013929460348) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the third 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. This album´s lineup includes, for the last time, all five founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist, Hammond organist Matthew FisherFind albums by this artist (who also produced the album), guitarist Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist, bassist David KnightsFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten songs, six composed by Brooker or co-composed by him with others, and two each composed by Fisher or Trower, all with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. For the first time three of the songs feature orchestral arrangements. This remastered and expanded edition adds a CD with twelve bonus tracks; A & B sides of a single, a studio outtake, live tracks recorded in the US and five tracks from BBC sessions, those being the only five tracks that are previously unreleased.
The musical direction of this album is slightly more diverse than the two previous albums, adding some Pop / Rock oriented material, although the double keyboards dominating sound is still in place and the bombastic Blues based, Gothic and Psychedelic soundscapes are present again, making it clear that this is Procol Harum at its best. In retrospect this album shows that the group was in a constant state of searching, as all great Artists are. This album was to be the last of the trilogy of the epic first three albums by the group recorded in the 1960s which started with the formative "A Whiter Shade Of Pale".
The album still sounds great after all those years, and is a refreshing experience for people who have not listened to it for a while. It seems that most of Rock had to say was more or less already articulated by the end of the 1960s. To the many fans of the group this is of course a must have item in their collections. An evergreen by all means and en essential Classic Rock / early Prog milestone!
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 31/01/2019 | CD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ HOME (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2505 (Barcode: 5013929460546) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the fourth 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. This album´s lineup includes three founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist with Hammond organist Chris CoppingFind albums by this artist, who also played the bass. All four of them were members of the group The ParamountsFind albums by this artist before Procol Harum was formed, and this reunion is celebrated by the album´s title, which was a homecoming of sorts. This was the first album by the group that was produced by the celebrated producer Chris ThomasFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine songs, seven composed by Brooker and two by Trower, with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. This remastered and expanded edition adds a CD with eleven bonus tracks; demos, alternate takes and alternate mixes and two tracks from a BBC session, those being the only two tracks that are previously unreleased.
The musical direction of this album is somewhat different from the three previous albums, being decidedly more Rock oriented, although the double keyboards dominating sound is still in place. The songs are shorter and more concise, featuring more guitar riffs and up-tempo songs, with shorter instrumental passages, flirting with early Hard Rock. But some of the bombastic Gothic and Psychedelic soundscapes are still present, making it clear that this is still Procol Harum after all. In retrospect this album is a bridge between the epic first three albums by the group and the rest of their 1970s recordings, which moved beyond the initial concept, which started with the formative "A Whiter Shade Of Pale".
The album still sounds great after all those years, and is a refreshing experience for people who have not listened to it for a while. It seems that everything that Rock had to say was more or less already articulated by 1970. To the many fans of the group this is of course a must have item in their collections. An evergreen by all means!
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 29/01/2019 | CD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE (2CD EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2545 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the seminal live album by the legendary British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Blues-Rock Fusion group ColosseumFind albums by this artist, founded in 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, who shared earlier common ground as members of John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist. The final incarnation of the band´s first era, of which this was the last recording, included also vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The original release of this album was a 2LP set and this 2CD edition more than doubles the original album´s playing time, including additional material that was recorded at the same concerts from which the original album was put together.
This reissue is the answer to the question: "How do you take the best possible album and make it better?" The new remaster and the additional material simply turn this iconic album into what is probably the most important recording made at the historic crossroads that produced, after a period of about half a decade of crystallization and construction, two of the tremendous British contributions to music in the 1960s: Blues-Rock Fusion and Jazz-Rock Fusion (the other being Progressive Rock, which also has a few moments on this album).
The complexity and the ingenuity of the music on this album are mind-bugling and in fact it was never matched by any other album of that period. The musicians struggled with the difficulties of playing this music live and compensated for any technical imperfections by the fire and enthusiasm of the performance. In fact the group´s reunion after twenty three years produced other live versions of the same material ("Live Cologne 1994Find albums with this title"), which are technically more perfect than the recordings herein, a fact that can be easily explained by the musical experience acquired during that period of time.
In retrospect this album simply refuses to fade away and still shines like a beacon of musical vitality, sophistication and stylistic crosspollination, which puts most of contemporary music in a miserable and pitiable light. Brainwashed and undereducated listeners of today can´t tell great music from organic waste…
I wonder if we can expect a future 4CD version of this album? After all this has already been reissued three times, so why not again? Still absolutely essential, perhaps even more so than before!
| | Updated: 17/01/2017Posted: 17/01/2017 | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PATTO ~ HOLD YOUR FIRE (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2582 (Barcode: 5013929468245) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2017
This is a reissue of the second album by the short-lived British Progressive Rock group PattoFind albums by this artist, led by the charismatic vocalist Mike PattoFind albums by this artist, which also included guitarist / vibraphonist / pianist Ollie HalsallFind albums by this artist, bassist Clive GriffithsFind albums by this artist and drummer John HalseyFind albums by this artist. The original album presented eight songs, all composed by Halsall with lyrics by Mike Patto. This remastered and expended edition adds two outtakes from the album studio recordings as bonus tracks and a second CD with eight tracks from BBC radio sessions and three alternate takes of the studio album.
Although Patto did not achieve much recognition at the time, their albums are considered as an integral part of the early British Prog, mainly thanks to the extraordinary guitar work by Halsall, who influenced many important Rock guitarists of his generation. After Patto disbanded Halsall played in TempestFind albums by this artist, BoxerFind albums by this artist and in Kevin AyersFind albums by this artist´ band until his untimely death in 1992. Mike Patto also died tragically early in 1979 as a victim of cancer.
The music is an amalgam of Blues, Rock and some Jazz-Rock influences, which in retrospect sounds like many other similar products of the period, sadly not leaving any remarkable musical statements, except the already mentioned guitar parts by Halsall. But it is definitely a nice listening experience with a strong nostalgic tinge.
Overall this is an opportunity to revisit some lesser known recordings of early British Prog, which still are relevant today and pay tribute to one of the forgotten guitar heroes of that period.
| | Updated: 02/08/2019Posted: 02/08/2019 | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | OSMOSIS ~ OSMOSIS
ESOTERIC 2613 (Barcode: 5013929471344) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2017
This is a reissue of the only album released by a rather obscure American Jazz-Rock Fusion septet OsmosisFind albums by this artist, which featured the legendary saxophonist Charlie MarianoFind albums by this artist, who was much older than the rest of the band members: vocalist Bobby KnoxFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Charlie BechlerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Andy SteinbornFind albums by this artist, bassist Danny ComfortFind albums by this artist, drummer Lou PetersonFind albums by this artist and percussionist Bobby ClarkFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven original compositions (one in two versions) composed or co-composed by the band´s members (mostly by Bechler, Steinborn and Comfort and three by Mariano) with lyrics by Knox. This remastered edition offers no bonus tracks.
The music turns out to be way more interesting than just a straightforward Jazz-Rock Fusion attempt, as the band mixed a plethora of different musical influences, like Psychedelia, Progressive Rock and some Zappaesque zaniness. The Jazz influence is not as dominating as one would suspect from a Fusion band. But at the time the album was recorded labeling music was beyond the point anyway and the album´s content is a best proof of such attitude.
Mariano is the only bona fide Jazz player on the album and considering his rather atypical attitude towards mainstream Jazz and his love of World Music elements, his contributions on the album are ideally suited for the stylistic mayhem of these proceedings. The resulting music is absolutely fresh, unconventional and exhilarating five decades after it was recorded and lost nothing of its power. As such it deserves to be discovered by the new generation of music lovers, which is possible now thanks to EsotericFind albums on this label Records.
Sadly the remaster did not save the problematic sound quality of the album, which was a result of unsympathetic production at the time. However, considering the strength of the music, this can be put aside with no scruples.
Overall this is a forgotten gem, which is an absolute must to connoisseurs of American Rock / early Fusion of that period that has a proud place in any serious music collection.
| | Updated: 26/05/2020Posted: 26/05/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CURVED AIR ~ AIR CONDITIONING (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2616 (Barcode: 5013929471641) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the debut album by the British Progressive Rock group Curved AirFind albums by this artist, one of the most unique and ambitious representatives of the genre. The band was fronted by the charismatic and idiosyncratic female vocalist Sonja KristinaFind albums by this artist and included two classically trained musicians: violinist Darryl WayFind albums by this artist and keyboardist / guitarist Francis MonkmanFind albums by this artist. Bassist Robert MartinFind albums by this artist and drummer Florian Pilkington-MiksaFind albums by this artist completed the lineup. The album presented ten original songs written or co-written by Way, Monkman and Martin, which offered a unique amalgamation of British Folk, Classical Music, Electronic Music, Rock and Jazz influences, unmatched by any of their contemporaries. This remastered and expanded edition adds one outtake from the original recording sessions and an entire second CD of alternate takes, singles and BBC radio recordings. The somewhat muddy sound quality of the original album was significantly improved on this reissue.
When originally released in 1970, the album (and the group) achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim, despite its unconventional sound and complexity, which of course was a sign of the times. Curved Air were one the first British acts to use the violin in their lineup (see also High TideFind albums by this artist and East Of EdenFind albums by this artist) and the first to feature violin to such an extent.
Sonja Kristina remains to this very day one of the most distinctive Rock vocalists. She managed to maintain a steady, although less glamorous career over the years, producing a substantial volume of excellent music. She also fronts the reformed edition of Curved Air.
Overall this is one of the essential British Classic Rock / Prog albums, which lost absolutely nothing of its strength over time and still sounds fresh and moving today. This reissue is a splendid opportunity for the new generation of music listeners to discover this everlasting classic. Essential piece of music history!
| | Updated: 18/07/2019Posted: 18/07/2019 | CD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CURVED AIR ~ AIR CUT
ESOTERIC 2617 (Barcode: 5013929471740) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the fourth album by the British Progressive Rock group Curved AirFind albums by this artist, one of the most unique and ambitious representatives of the genre. The band was fronted by the charismatic and idiosyncratic female vocalist Sonja KristinaFind albums by this artist. Following the departure of the three founding members of the group: Darryl WayFind albums by this artist, Francis MonkmanFind albums by this artist and Florian Pilkington-MiksaFind albums by this artist, Kristina and bassist Mike WedgwoodFind albums by this artist carried the group´s name into the future, enlisting the violinist / keyboardist Eddie JobsonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Kirby GregoryFind albums by this artist and drummer Jim RussellFind albums by this artist to complete the new lineup, which recorded this album. It presents eight original songs, written by Gregory, Jobson, Wedgwood and also Kristina, who wrote the lyrics to two songs written by others. This remastered reissue offers improved sound quality but no bonus material.
The music offered a unique amalgamation of British Folk, Classical Music, Electronic Music, Rock and Jazz influences, unmatched by any of their contemporaries and despite the departure of the two songwriters responsible for the majority of the material present on the first three classic albums, the material this album offers is on a par with its predecessors. Sadly this lineup proved to be short lived and disbanded shortly after the album was released in the summer of 1973.
In 1974 Curved Air reunited and recorded one live album called simply "LiveFind albums with this title", which featured the original lineup except for the bassist and a year later Kristina and Way managed to put another lineup together and recorded two more albums: "Midnight WireFind albums with this title" (1975) and "AirborneFind albums with this title" (1976) before disbanding for many years to come.
Sonja Kristina remains to this very day one of the most distinctive Rock vocalists. She managed to maintain a steady, although less glamorous career over the years, producing a substantial volume of excellent music. She also fronts the reformed edition of Curved Air.
Overall this is one of the essential British Classic Rock / Prog albums, which lost absolutely nothing of its strength over time and still sounds fresh and moving today. This reissue is a splendid opportunity for the new generation of music listeners to discover this everlasting classic. Essential piece of music history!
| | Updated: 25/07/2019Posted: 25/07/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ IT SHALL BE: THE ODE & EPIC RECORDINGS 1968-1972
ESOTERIC 2619 (Barcode: 5013929471948) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1972 Released: 2018
This wonderful box set collects the recordings by the seminal American Classic Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist, formed in 1967 by guitarist Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist which also included his stepfather drummer Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist John LockeFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark AndesFind albums by this artist and vocalist / percussionist Jay FergusonFind albums by this artist. This original lineup recorded the first four studio albums by the group. This 5 CDs Box Set includes the first five studio albums recorded by the group ("SpiritFind albums with this title", "The Family That Plays TogetherFind albums with this title", "ClearFind albums with this title", "Twelve Dreams Of Dr. SardonicusFind albums with this title" and "FeedbackFind albums with this title") originally released on the OdeFind albums on this label and EpicFind albums on this label labels as well as a plethora of bonus material that more than doubles the total playing time and includes the Soundtrack of the film "The Model Shop", alternate mixes, outtakes and A & B sides of singles. Some of the bonus tracks included here were initially included on the 1991 compilation "Time Circle (1968-1972)Find albums with this title", which was by far not complete. All the tracks in this Box Set were newly remastered.
Spirit was a completely unique phenomenon on the American Rock scene, light years ahead of its time, amalgamating Rock, Psychedelia and early Jazz-Rock Fusion in a way no other group managed to do before or since. With a strong Jazzy undercurrent and superb writing talents of California and Ferguson, they created a body of music that remains completely innovative to this very day. Combined with their excellent instrumental abilities, the group soared into previously uncharted territory with grace and surprising (for their young age) authority. The aesthetic aura of the first four albums, which is astonishingly coherent in spite of their diversity, remains as one of Classic Rock´s all time highlights.
The Jazz influence, brought into the group by Cassidy, who was twenty years older that the rest of the group´s members, was especially unique. Spirit, although pioneering Jazz-Rock Fusion, did it in a very subtle way and incorporated the Jazzy feel into the overall Rock ambience, rather than moving into mostly instrumental Jazz-Rock Fusion, which characterized most other representatives of the idiom.
In retrospect the music included in this Box Set is completely timeless and lost absolutely nothing of its grace and beauty over the years. This comprehensive collection of the group´s early material is beyond reproach and the remastered sound makes listening to the music a delightful experience. It is of course an essential piece of Rock history, which earns it an honorable place in any serious music collection. An absolute must have!
| | Updated: 12/09/2020Posted: 05/02/2019 | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ GRAND HOTEL (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2632 (Barcode: 5013929473249) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the sixth 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. This album´s lineup includes two founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist with Hammond organist Chris CoppingFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mick GrabhamFind albums by this artist (making his first appearance in the group) and bassist Alan CartwrightFind albums by this artist and includes also an orchestra, choir and guests. Brooker scored the orchestral and choir parts. The album was produced by the celebrated producer Chris ThomasFind albums by this artist, who worked with the group since their fourth studio album "HomeFind albums with this title". The album presents nine songs all composed by Brooker with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist and is the first album that features exclusively songs written by the duo. This remastered and expanded edition adds five bonus tracks: the title track recorded without the orchestra and choir and four earlier versions of the tracks on the album, which include the guitarist Dave BallFind albums by this artist, who was replaced by Grabham and who took part in the recording in the final version of the album. A bonus DVD presents a concert captured by Belgian TV.
This album was largely influenced by the recording of the heavily orchestrated first live album "Live: In Concert With The Edmonton Symphony OrchestraFind albums with this title" from 1972, which preceded it, and follows the Symphonic Prog idiom these two albums represent in the extended legacy of the group. Of course this album presents a wonderful set of entirely new compositions perfectly crafted by Brooker, which include some of his best work ever, whereas the live album was mostly a rework of earlier material.
Brooker´s incredible vocals and the group´s instrumental work are superb in every respect and the production and orchestration manages to emphasize perfectly their unique ambience. They were also incredibly effective when playing live, as evident on the bonus DVD.
Overall this is one of the strongest albums in the Procol Harum impressive legacy, which offers a wonderful example of their unique stylistic idiosyncrasy, which knows no parallels. It lost absolute nothing of its power and elegance over time and sounds every bit as wonderful as it did at the time of its release. It is obviously an essential item in any serious Classic Rock / Prog collection.
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 28/02/2019 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ EXOTIC BIRDS AND FRUIT (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2633 (Barcode: 5013929473348) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the seventh 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. This album´s lineup includes two founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist with Hammond organist Chris CoppingFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mick GrabhamFind albums by this artist and bassist Alan CartwrightFind albums by this artist. Guitarist B. J. ColeFind albums by this artist guests on selected tracks. The album was produced by the celebrated producer Chris ThomasFind albums by this artist, who worked with the group since their fourth studio album "HomeFind albums with this title". The album presents nine songs all composed by Brooker with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. This remastered and expanded edition adds two bonus tracks (B-side of a single and an alternate mix), a bonus CD with a BBC "In Concert" recording and another bonus CD with a radio studio performance recorded in the US.
Following the recording of two heavily orchestrated albums (the first live album "Live: In Concert With The Edmonton Symphony OrchestraFind albums with this title" from 1972 and the sixth studio album "Grand HotelFind albums with this title" from 1973) this album marks a "return to basics" Rock attitude with the dominating double keyboards sound and the moody, lyrical tunes perfectly crafted by Brooker. The overall sound and musical approach is closest to the early work of the group since a few years.
Brooker´s incredible vocals and the group´s instrumental work are superb in every respect and the production manages to emphasize perfectly their unique ambience. They were also incredibly effective when playing live, as evident on the two bonus CDs.
Overall this is one of the strongest albums in the Procol Harum impressive legacy, which offers a wonderful example of their unique stylistic idiosyncrasy, which knows no parallels. It lost absolute nothing of its power and elegance over time and sounds every bit as wonderful as it did at the time of its release. It is obviously an essential item in any serious Classic Rock / Prog collection.
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 29/01/2019 | CD 3 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ THE PRODIGAL STRANGER (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2634 (Barcode: 5013929473447) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1991 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the tenth 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 group´s previous studio album "Something MagicFind albums with this title", which was the last of a string of alums the group recorded at a steady paste in the 1960s and 1970s. This album marks the return of the founding member, Hammond organ player Matthew FisherFind albums by this artist, who left the group after the recording of their third studio album "A Salty DogFind albums with this title". As a result three founding members of Procol Harum are present on this album: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist and Fisher. The group´s other members on this album are bassist Dave BronzeFind albums by this artist and drummer Mark BrzezickiFind albums by this artist. The album offers twelve new songs, all composed or co-composed by Brooker with Fisher and producer Matt NobleFind albums by this artist. The lyrics are as usual by the poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. The album is dedicated to B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist, the groups founding member drummer, who died in 1990. This remastered and expanded edition adds three previously unreleased bonus tracks: two demos and one live track.
The release of the album was followed by a tour promoting the album. Trower refused to tour and was replaced by Geoff WhitehornFind albums by this artist. The tour yielded the second live album by the group entitled "One More TimeFind albums with this title".
Musically the album does not follow closely the classic Procol Harum sound and musical direction and in retrospect is the groups most straightforward Pop / Rock oriented album in their entire career. In spite of the double keyboards (piano and Hammond organ) the production shifts the overall soundscape into more contemporary (at the time) environment, which sadly damages the result. The basic melodies and the lyrics are still potentially great, but the album does not reach the same level of depth and the characteristic Procol Harum ambience, as one would have hoped for. As the A/M live album proves, the material was much better suited for concerts than for an intimate home listening experience.
Nevertheless it is still a solid Classic Rock album, which can be enjoyed by the many fans of the group and an important document of the group´s illustrious musical legacy.
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 28/01/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CURVED AIR ~ SECOND ALBUM (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2637 (Barcode: 5013929473744) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the second album by the British Progressive Rock group Curved AirFind albums by this artist, one of the most unique and ambitious representatives of the genre. The band was fronted by the charismatic and idiosyncratic female vocalist Sonja KristinaFind albums by this artist and included two classically trained musicians: violinist Darryl WayFind albums by this artist and keyboardist / guitarist Francis MonkmanFind albums by this artist. Bassist Ian EyreFind albums by this artist and drummer Florian Pilkington-MiksaFind albums by this artist completed the lineup. A string section was also used on this album. The album presented eight original songs written by Way and Monkman, which offered a unique amalgamation of British Folk, Classical Music, Electronic Music, Rock and Jazz influences, unmatched by any of their contemporaries. This remastered and expanded edition adds five BBC radio recordings and entire DVD of TV clips of the other video material by the band. The somewhat muddy sound quality of the original album was significantly improved on this reissue.
When originally released in 1971, the album (and the group) achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim, despite its unconventional sound and complexity, which of course was a sign of the times. Curved Air were one the first British acts to use the violin in their lineup (see also High Tide and East Of Eden) and the first to feature violin to such an extent. One of the songs on this album ("Back Street Luv") charted successfully and introduced the group to much wider audience beyond the strict Prog circle.
The two sides of the original LP album were quite different; the first side with the songs written by Way and lyrics by Kristina is more Rock oriented whereas the second side with songs by Monkman is much more complex and experimental and includes an almost thirteen minutes long epic track which closes the album.
Sonja Kristina remains to this very day one of the most distinctive Rock vocalists. She managed to maintain a steady, although less glamorous career over the years, producing a substantial volume of excellent music. She also fronts the reformed edition of Curved Air.
Overall this is one of the essential British Classic Rock / Prog albums, which lost absolutely nothing of its strength over time and still sounds fresh and moving today. This reissue is a splendid opportunity for the new generation of music listeners to discover this everlasting classic. Essential piece of music history!
| | Updated: 21/07/2019Posted: 19/07/2019 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CURVED AIR ~ PHANTASMAGORIA (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2638 (Barcode: 5013929473843) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the third album by the British Progressive Rock group Curved AirFind albums by this artist, one of the most unique and ambitious representatives of the genre. The band was fronted by the charismatic and idiosyncratic female vocalist Sonja KristinaFind albums by this artist and included two classically trained musicians: violinist Darryl WayFind albums by this artist and keyboardist / guitarist Francis MonkmanFind albums by this artist. Bassist Mike WedgwoodFind albums by this artist and drummer Florian Pilkington-MiksaFind albums by this artist completed the lineup. A brass section was also used on this album and the Jazz vibraphonist / percussionist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist played on selected tracks. The album presented nine original songs written by Way and Monkman, with lyrics by Kristina, which offered a unique amalgamation of British Folk, Classical Music, Electronic Music, Rock and Jazz influences, unmatched by any of their contemporaries. This remastered and expanded edition adds three bonus tracks (A-side of a single and two previously unreleased studio tracks) and entire DVD of TV appearances by the band. The somewhat muddy sound quality of the original album was significantly improved on this reissue.
When originally released in 1972, the album established Curved Air as one of the most important and innovative British Prog groups at the time and proved that the band was constantly evolving and exploring new territory. This album used some of the most advanced and complex electronic music elements thanks to Monkman´s interest in the subject. Of the triptych created by the first three albums this one is by far the most coherent and perfectly put together one.
Sadly, just a few months after this album was released the three founding members of the group: Way, Monkman and Pilkington-Miksa decided to leave the group and go their separate ways. Kristina and Wedgwood carried the group´s name into the future, and the band would go into several reunion project in the years that followed.
Sonja Kristina remains to this very day one of the most distinctive Rock vocalists. She managed to maintain a steady, although less glamorous career over the years, producing a substantial volume of excellent music. She also fronts the reformed edition of Curved Air.
Overall this is one of the essential British Classic Rock / Prog albums, which lost absolutely nothing of its strength over time and still sounds fresh and moving today. This reissue is a splendid opportunity for the new generation of music listeners to discover this everlasting classic. Essential piece of music history!
| | Updated: 21/07/2019Posted: 21/07/2019 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ LIVE: IN CONCERT WITH THE EDMONTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2650 (Barcode: 5013929475045) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the first live 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. This album´s lineup includes two founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist with Hammond organist Chris CoppingFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dave BallFind albums by this artist and bassist Alan CartwrightFind albums by this artist. The group is accompanied by the Edmonton Symphony OrchestraFind albums by this artist and the Da Camera SingersFind albums by this artist choir. The album presents five songs, one of which is the five-part suite originating from their second studio album "Shine On BrightlyFind albums with this title", two originate from their third studio album "A Salty DogFind albums with this title" and one each originates from their eponymous debut album and their fourth studio album "HomeFind albums with this title", all composed by Brooker or co-composed with Matthew FisherFind albums by this artist with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. All these songs have been re-arranged to include the orchestral and choral parts. The album was produced by the celebrated producer Chris ThomasFind albums by this artist. This remastered and expanded edition adds five bonus tracks (B-side of a single and four tracks taken from the concert rehearsals), two of which are previously unreleased.
Although by far not the first attempt to combine Rock with Symphonic music, this is definitely one of the most successful attempts to do so, mostly due to the very nature of the early Procol Harum music, which was to some extent based on Classical Music themes and influences, making such amalgamation natural and logical. Brooker manages to balance the group´s parts and the orchestral / choral parts into a non-conflicting tapestry of sound, which achieves a striking result.
It is quite difficult to imagine today (2019) how pioneering and forward thinking this album really was at the time, when idioms like cross-genre / multi-cultural / multilateral were not even invented. The music was neatly sub-divided into serious (i.e. Classical Music) and popular (i.e. Pop / Rock) with Jazz being a strange fruit and World Music still being largely undiscovered. Any attempts to create something which defied these "norms" were usually met with suspicion and often outright animosity. But of course these were also the years of great musical discovery (The Golden Decade 1965-1975), as this wonderful album proves.
Overall this is definitely an absolutely essential piece of Rock history and a must in any decent record collection, which any true music connoisseur should be proud to own. A timeless gem!
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 29/01/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ PROCOL`S NINTH (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2652 (Barcode: 5013929475243) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the eighth 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 was the group´s ninth album overall, including the live album "Live: In Concert With The Edmonton Symphony OrchestraFind albums with this title", released three years earlier, hence the album´s title. This album´s lineup includes two founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist with Hammond organist Chris CoppingFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mick GrabhamFind albums by this artist and bassist Alan CartwrightFind albums by this artist. The album was produced by the celebrated team of American producers / songwriters Jerry LeiberFind albums by this artist and Mike StollerFind albums by this artist, known for their pioneering work in Rock And Roll, who also contributed one of their songs on the album. Brooker wrote eight songs which feature lyrics by Keith ReidFind albums by this artist and the album also includes the group´s interpretation of a BeatlesFind albums by this artist song, which marks the first album on which the band included material not written by the band´s members. This remastered and expanded edition adds eight bonus tracks (early versions of the songs on the original album) five of which are previously unreleased. Two bonus CDs are also included, the first featuring a live show recorded in the US and the second featuring a live show recorded in UK, with all the material on both the CDs being previously unreleased except for four tracks.
The American production influenced the overall sound and ambience of the group´s music, with this album being the most Pop / Rock oriented release of their original streak of the first nine studio albums released between 1967 and 1977. The music is more straightforward and features fewer instrumental passages. But all things considered Brooker´s incredible vocals and the group´s instrumental work are superb in every respect and the production manages not to distort their unique ambience. The group was also incredibly effective when playing live, as evident on the two bonus CDs.
Overall this is another strong album in the Procol Harum impressive legacy, which offers a wonderful example of their unique stylistic idiosyncrasy, which knows no parallels. It lost absolute nothing of its power and elegance over time and sounds every bit as wonderful as it did at the time of its release. It is obviously an essential item in any serious Classic Rock / Prog collection.
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 14/02/2019 | CD 3 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BYRDS ~ BYRDS
ESOTERIC 2658 (Barcode: 5013929475847) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the 1973 reunion album by the iconic American group The ByrdsFind albums by this artist, which was their twelfth and last album. It was recorded by the original members of the group: lead guitarists / vocalist Roger McGuinnFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist Gene ClarkFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, bassist Chris HillmanFind albums by this artist and drummer Michael ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The album presents elevens songs, eight of which were written by the members of the band, two by Neil YoungFind albums by this artist and one by Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist. This newly remastered reissue includes no bonus tracks, but offers an improved sound quality in comparison to the original release.
The album was originally released on the (then) newly founded Asylum Records, following the eleven earlier albums that the group recorded for Columbia, all of which were beautifully reissued in the "The Complete Columbia Albums CollectionFind albums with this title" Box Set with a plethora of bonus material.
Although the album did not result in any chart material, the songs are up to par with the band´s superb older material, and in retrospect it is an integral part of their recorded legacy. By the time this album was recorded, the transformation of the American music from the Folk to the Rock idiom was already complete and the material was already anachronistic to some extent. But since great music proves to be timeless, this album withstands the test of time without a hitch.
Since this album remains mostly forgotten by the Classic Rock fans, it is good to see it back in circulation. The Byrds were instrumental in the process of creating Rock music as we know it, and we should always keep their music alive. For the younger generation of Rock music lovers, who were not around when this music was originally released, this is definitely worth investigating!
| | Updated: 02/08/2019Posted: 01/08/2019 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ BROKEN BARRICADES (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2673 (Barcode: 5013929477346) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the fifth 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. This album´s lineup, same as on its predecessor "HomeFind albums with this title", includes three founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist with Hammond organist Chris CoppingFind albums by this artist, who also played the bass. This was the second album by the group that was produced by the celebrated producer Chris ThomasFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight songs, five composed by Brooker and three by Trower, with lyrics by poet Keith ReidFind albums by this artist. This remastered and expanded edition adds nine bonus tracks with alternate tracks and two bonus CDs with live recordings. The first bonus CD presents a US live radio broadcast recorded before the album was released and played by the same four-piece version of the band. It also presents a BBC Radio session recorded six months later by the new five-piece version of the band, put together following Trower´s departure, which also includes guitarist Dave BallFind albums by this artist and bassist Alan CartwrightFind albums by this artist. The second bonus CD presents a live Swedish Radio concert by the same five piece version of the band.
The musical direction of this album continues the path set by the group on "Home", being decidedly more Rock oriented, with memorable riffs, orchestral arrangements and the double keyboards still prominently featured. The songs are shorter and more concise, featuring more guitar riffs and up-tempo songs, with shorter instrumental passages, flirting with early Hard Rock. But some of the bombastic Gothic and Psychedelic soundscapes are still present, making it clear that this is still Procol Harum after all. The songwriting is still very strong and these tracks lost nothing of their charm and power over the years. In retrospect this album is a second part of the bridge between the epic first three albums by the group and the rest of their 1970s recordings, which moved beyond the initial concept, which started with the formative "A Whiter Shade Of Pale".
The album still sounds great after all those years, and is a refreshing experience for people who have not listened to it for a while. It seems that everything that Rock had to say was more or less already articulated by early 1970s. To the many fans of the group this is of course a must have item in their collections. An evergreen by all means!
The live tracks prove that Procol Harum was always a formidable live act and their ability to adopt new players into their lineup as rapidly as they did is still remarkable. Overall this is a brilliant piece of Rock history, which deserves an honorable place in any serious Rock music collection.
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 04/10/2019 | CD 3 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ THE COMPLETE POTATOLAND
ESOTERIC 2687 (Barcode: 5013929478701) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1981 Released: 2019
This is an archival / reissue Box Set by the American Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist, collecting all the recordings associated with the so called "Potatoland" sessions scheduled for release in 1973 but eventually scrapped and released only in 1981 in a completely revamped form as "The Adventures Of Kaptain Kopter & Commander Cassidy In Potato LandFind albums with this title".
The Box Set includes four CDs:
CD1 presents "The Original Potato LandFind albums with this title" album recorded in 1972 / 1973 by Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist and Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist, which was a concept album including dialogues and sound effects, spanning over eighteen tracks, and which was not released until 2006 and then again in 2011. The political / social message of the album sound weirdly contemporary today. It also includes nine bonus tracks with alternate takes, live recordings, BBC radio recordings, an interview with California and Cassidy and finally two live recordings from 1979 recorded as a trio with bassist Larry KnightFind albums by this artist.
CD2 present the 1981 release of "The Adventures Of Kaptain Kopter & Commander Cassidy In Potato Land", which was altered and re-recorded and included additional musicians, like keyboardist John LockeFind albums by this artist and horn and strings sections. It also includes seven bonus tracks with alternate versions and another interview with California.
CD3 presents a live radio recording from September 13th, 1972 (sixteen tracks) and CD4 presents a live radio recording from September 6th, 1972 (eight tracks) and six bonus tracks with studio cuts, rehearsal and demos. The live radio recordings were done by the California / Cassidy / Knight trio.
All the music was newly remastered and the Box set includes extensive booklet with historical background as well as the replica of the comic book insert that came with the 1981 release.
Overall this Box Set is not only full of great music but also a classic example of care about music and preservation of Rock´s history, as usual with the EsotericFind albums on this label Records releases. Absolutely essential for the many Spirit fans and most welcomed by Classic Rock loves around the globe!
| | Updated: 14/07/2020Posted: 14/07/2020 | CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALAN PRICE ~ BETWEEN TODAY AND YESTERDAY
ESOTERIC 2694 (Barcode: 5013929479449) ~ UK ~ Classic Pop
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of a wonderful album by the British singer / songwriter / keyboardist Alan PriceFind albums by this artist, mostly remembered as a founding member of the legendary British band The AnimalsFind albums by this artist. Price left The Animals in 1965 and embarked on a solo career, which lasted for many decades and produced many wonderful albums, of which these is one of the most notable. On this album Price sings and plays piano and organ, accompanied by guitarist Colin GreenFind albums by this artist and bassist Dave MarkeeFind albums by this artist and a superb orchestra / Big Band led by British Jazz veteran trombonist / arranger Derek WadsworthFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve original songs, all by Price. This remastered edition adds two single versions of the songs from this album as bonus tracks.
Price was a bona fide "working class hero" and the subject matter of the songs on this album touch upon the social and economic injustice experienced by the British working class, based on his childhood memories. He was often criticized by expressing his ideology, but never gave up doing so.
Although primarily associated with Rhythm And Blues, his musical inclinations were always very close to Jazz and his Alan Price SetFind albums by this artist was a great example of creating brilliant early Jazz-Pop Fusion. He returned as often as he could to the Jazz influences in his recordings.
But of course Price is first and foremost a superb singer with an idiosyncratic vocal ambience, which knows but a few parallels. He is also a brilliant songweaver and many of his songs remain to shine as anthems of the 1960s / 1970s to this very day. And he is a mighty organ player as well, still remembered from his performance on the iconic "The House Of The Rising Sun" (1964), which can be heard also from his playing on this album.
Overall this is an absolute marvel and a must have for Classic British Pop fans, Price fans and all lovers of great music, which should not be forgotten. British Jazz lovers should be able to find some interesting aspects therein ;) Grab it while you can!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 10/04/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ TWO SIDES OF A RAINBOW: LIVE AT THE RAINBOW 1978
ESOTERIC 2704 (Barcode: 5013929480483) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2019
This is an archival / reissue album by the American Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist recorded live at London´s Rainbow Theatre. After five year absence from the UK scene Spirit returned as a lean and mean power trio with Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist on vocals and guitar, Larry KnightFind albums by this artist on bass and Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist on drums. The Rainbow was intended as a location to record a live album and the concert was indeed recorded, but sadly it turned out that California´s guitar track was left unrecorded. This resulted in the need of the guitar to be re-recorded and overdubbed with the live tracks, producing no less than three somewhat different versions of the album being released: "LiveFind albums with this title" in UK, "Made In GermanyFind albums with this title" in Germany and "Live SpiritFind albums with this title" in the US.
Three decades later a board mix cassette was discovered, which captured the entire Rainbow show, including the six encores, and after some serious repair work the entire show and the remastered edition of "Live Spirit" were released as a 2CD album "Two Sides Of A RainbowFind albums with this title" in 2012, sadly making very little impact at the time. This reissue offers another careful remaster of the entire content and elegant packaging, as always with EsotericFind albums on this label Records, and is another attempt to bring this great music to the attention of Rock and Spirit fans.
The music includes mostly original material from the fabulous Spirit songbook, most written by California and two by Jay FergusonFind albums by this artist, but also a few covers of Bob DylanFind albums by this artist and other songs associated with Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist. The Spirit songs get a much more Hard Rock oriented treatment, in contrast to the finesse and complex vocal harmonies that characterize the studio versions of these songs. The focus of this album is obviously on California´s guitar pyrotechnics, in which he clearly pays tribute to the legacy of Hendrix.
By the time this music was recorded, Classic Rock was slowly disintegrating and this album is a wonderful document of the last great days of idiom, soon to be gone. Spirit was undoubtedly a manifestation of the finest aspects of American Rock, leaving a unique and completely idiosyncratic legacy, which deserves to be remembered. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 10/07/2020Posted: 10/07/2020 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ TENT OF MIRACLES (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2717 (Barcode: 5013929471788) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1990 Released: 2020
This is a reissue of the thirteenth (and one before last) studio album by American Rock band SpiritFind albums by this artist, which at the time comprised of guitarist / vocalist / songwriter Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist, who wrote most of the material, drummer Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist and bassist Mike NileFind albums by this artist, who had a significant input to the band´s music writing or co-writing several of the album´s tunes. The reissue was re-constructed by Spirit archivist Mick SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, using materials created during the actual recording sessions, which resulted in eight of the songs present on the original release to be replaced by alternate mixes and unedited versions and leaving only four tracks untouched. The resulting album has a much clearer and coherent sound than the original. Additionally nine bonus tracks were added; some session outtakes, a demo and rehearsal and live recordings. An entire second CD was added with the previously unreleased live recording made in Amsterdam, captured before the album was recorded.
The album proves that Spirit managed to continue and produce meaningful Rock music into the 1990s, being one of the very few bands that originated in the 1960s and had still something say in the 1990s. California´s songwriting and phenomenal guitar work stayed sharp and focused, which can be clearly heard here.
They were also a great live band, touring extensively both in Europe and in the US, with concerts being attended by large crowds. The live material presented on the bonus CD plainly explains why.
Overall this is another Classic Rock album by this great band, sadly to be over with the tragic death of California in 1996, just a month after the release of their final album "California BluesFind albums with this title". This is definitely a piece of American Rock history and considering that the original release is long out of print, this is a most welcome reissue!
| | Updated: 04/09/2020Posted: 03/09/2020 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | RANDY CALIFORNIA & SPIRIT ~ THE EURO-AMERICAN YEARS 1979-1983
ESOTERIC 2734 (Barcode: 5013929473485) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1979 - 1983 Released: 2020
This is an archival / reissue Box Set by American guitarist / vocalist / songwriter Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist and his legendary group SpiritFind albums by this artist, compiled and mastered by archivist Mike SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, who is in charge of the entire series of Spirit archival releases on the EsotericFind albums on this label label. This Box Set expands the previous 4CD release of this material from 2006 released on ArcadiaFind albums on this label, and adds two additional CDs of previously unreleased live material by Spirit and Randy California BandFind albums by this artist.
The Box Set includes six CDs:
CD1 presents some early demos and bonus material not included on the original release of the “Euro AmericanFind albums with this title” album from 1982, the original tracks of that album and some post album tracks.
CD2 presents tracks that were originally released on the German only LP “Shattered DreamsFind albums with this title” released on LineFind albums on this label Records and a plethora of additional archival tracks.
CD3 presents various live appearances by Spirit from 1980 and 1981 in Europe and US.
CD4 presents demo and live material by Randy California Band.
CD5 presents a previously unreleased live concert recording by Spirit from 1981.
CD6 presents a previously unreleased live concerts recording by Randy California Band from their British appearances at Reading and Glastonbury festivals.
These recordings feature Randy California on vocals, guitars and occasional keyboards, bassists Steve LoriaFind albums by this artist and Mike SheppherdFind albums by this artist, drummers Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist, Jack WilloughbyFind albums by this artist and Preston HeymanFind albums by this artist and others. It is noteworthy to state that Spirit enjoyed a much wider popularity in Europe, mainly in UK and Germany, during most of their musical career.
Overall, this is an incredible piece of American Rock history and a great tribute to one of greatest American Rock bands, which Spirit obviously were, as much as a tribute to the incredible talents of Randy California, who was both an extraordinary guitarist and a superb songwriter, often sadly underappreciated. This is an obvious labor of love and a part of a unique recording legacy document on a scale rarely attempted, which Spirit obviously deserves.
| | Updated: 01/03/2022Posted: 13/01/2022 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PROCOL HARUM ~ SOMETHING MAGIC (DELUXE EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2740 (Barcode: 5013929474086) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2020
This is a reissue of the ninth studio album by the seminal British Classic Rock / Progressive 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 and the group´s tenth album overall. This album´s lineup includes two founding members: vocalist / pianist Gary BrookerFind albums by this artist and drummer B. J. WilsonFind albums by this artist with keyboardist Pete SolleyFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mick GrabhamFind albums by this artist and bassist Chris CoppingFind albums by this artist. The album, recorded in Miami at the highly respected Criteria Studios, was co-produced by the group and the team of brothers Ron AlbertFind albums by this artist and Howie AlbertFind albums by this artist, who were the sound engineers. Brooker wrote five songs, one a lengthy three-part suite over nineteen minutes long, which feature lyrics by Keith ReidFind albums by this artist and Grabham added one song also with lyrics by Raid. Three of the songs include wonderful orchestrations, including the a.m. suite. This remastered and expanded edition adds three bonus tracks (a B-side of a single and two live demo tracks, eventually not included on the original album). A bonus CD features a BBC Radio Concert from March 1977.
On this album the American co-production had a more limited, if any, influence on the overall sound and ambience of the group´s music, which returned to their classic Prog oriented direction. This album closes the cycle of their original streak of the first nine studio albums released between 1967 and 1977. Brooker´s incredible vocals and the group´s instrumental work are superb in every respect and the group was also incredibly effective when playing live, as evident on the bonus CD.
The initial reception to the album was very cold and the album did not chart on either side of the pond, which of course had nothing to do with the quality of the music, but with the changing musical atmosphere and the Punk revolt against anything reasonably musical.
Overall this is another strong album in the Procol Harum impressive legacy, which offers a wonderful example of their unique stylistic idiosyncrasy, which knows no parallels. It lost absolute nothing of its power and elegance over time and sounds every bit as wonderful as it did at the time of its release. It is obviously an essential item in any serious Classic Rock / Prog collection.
| | Updated: 09/04/2022Posted: 20/03/2021 | CD 2 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ SON OF AMERICA (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2755 (Barcode: 5013929475588) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1983 - 1996 Released: 2021
This is a reissue of a 2CD compilation of previously unissued tracks by the American Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist, assembled in 2005 by the Spirit archivist Mick SkidmoreFind albums by this artist. It includes tracks recorded between 1983 and 1996 by guitarist Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist, drummer Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Scott MonahanFind albums by this artist, with several guests participating on selected tracks, including two founding Spirit members: keyboardist John LockeFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark AndesFind albums by this artist. The compilation includes forty-four tracks, mostly written by California. This expanded edition includes a third CD with a live concert recording from 1993 (sixteen tracks), recorded by the trio of California, Cassidy and Monahan and another live track recorded in 1989 by California and Locke.
The music is overall as excellent as most of the material Spirit and later California recorded during their convoluted career, emphasizing what a brilliant songwriter and guitar player he was, as well as his high awareness of social and political issues. In retrospect he surely was one of the most significant American Rock artists of all time.
Skidmore’s excellent work of archiving the vast Spirit recorded legacy and the recent cooperation between him and the EsotericFind albums on this label label finally bring back to life in an orderly fashion the entire splendor of Spirit’s recorded output in superb remastered sound quality and proper historic perspective. It emerges as one of the biggest archiving / reissuing projects ever made, which of course the music of Spirit fully deserves. Wholeheartedly recommended not only to Spirit fans but all Classic Rock enthusiasts.
| | Updated: 20/07/2021Posted: 20/07/2021 | CD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ SUNRISE & SALVATION: THE MERCURY ERA ANTHOLOGY
ESOTERIC 2776 (Barcode: 5013929477681) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1974 - 1986 Released: 2021
This is an archival / reissue Box Set by the legendary American group SpiritFind albums by this artist, which collects the albums originally released on the MercuryFind albums on this label label, compiled and mastered by archivist Mike SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, who is in charge of the entire series of Spirit archival releases on the EsotericFind albums on this label label. This Box Set expands the original releases and adds a plethora of previously unreleased material by the group, including demos, outtakes and live concerts. The music was recorded by various musicians, with Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist and Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist being the only ones present on all the tracks.
The Box Set includes eight CDs:
CD1 presents nineteen tracks originally released as the 2LP album “Spirit Of ‘76Find albums with this title”.
CD2 presents six remaining tracks from the “Spirit Of ‘76” album and fourteen mostly previously unreleased bonus tracks.
CD3 presents ten tracks originally released as the album “Son Of SpiritFind albums with this title”, twelve tracks originally released as the album “Farther AlongFind albums with this title” and five bonus tracks, which are outtakes of the second album.
CD4 presents twenty-two tracks originally released as the album “Future GamesFind albums with this title” and eleven bonus tracks from various sources.
CD5 presents thirteen tracks recorded live originally released as the album “The Thirteenth DreamFind albums with this title” (in UK) or “Spirit Of ‘84Find albums with this title” (in US) and six additional previously unreleased live tracks.
CD6 presents twenty-one studio tracks and eight demo recordings, all of which did not materialize on an album release.
CD7 presents sixteen tracks recorded live in concert in 1975.
CD8 presents twenty-three early demo versions of the material released as “Future Games” and eight tracks recorded live in concert in 1975.
Overall, this is an incredible piece of American Rock history and a great tribute to one of greatest American Rock bands, which Spirit obviously were, as much as a tribute to the incredible talents of Randy California, who was both an extraordinary guitarist and a superb songwriter, often sadly underappreciated. This is an obvious labor of love and a part of a unique recording legacy document on a scale rarely attempted, which Spirit obviously deserves.
| | Updated: 01/03/2022Posted: 01/03/2022 | CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ TWELVE DREAMS OF DR. SARDONICUS (DELUXE EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2792 (Barcode: 5013929479289) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2022
This is a 2CD reissue / remaster / expanded edition of the fourth album by the iconic American Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist, which comprised of vocalist / guitarist Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist, vocalist / percussionist Jay FergusonFind albums by this artist, keyboardist John LockeFind albums by this artist, vocalist / bassist Mark AndesFind albums by this artist and drummer Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist. The original album consisted of twelve tracks, mostly written by California and Ferguson. This edition adds ten bonus tracks, six of which are previously unreleased. Also added is a second / bonus CD with seventeen previously unreleased tracks recorded live at the Fillmore West in SF in May 1970. The album was curated by the Spirit archivist Mick SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, who also wrote the informative, as always, booklet accompanying the album. Skidmore was in charge of the entire Spirit reissue program on EsotericFind albums on this label records, a truly mammoth undertaking.
In retrospect “Twelve Dreams” achieved a status of a cult album and obviously is one of the most important Classic Rock albums of all times. Of course all the first four Spirit albums were simply sensational, but here the group manages to reach a perfect symbiosis od many Rock styles, including Psychedelia, Art Rock and even some Jazzy / Fusiony sparks. Sadly, as it often happens with Rock groups, after a peak comes a downfall, and Spirit would never climb again to such artistic heights as those achieved here, although everything Spirit and Randy California ever recorded is worth pursuing.
It is worth mentioning that Spirit were a very untypical American Rock group and musically / stylistically / intellectually found a much better reception in Europe than at home. Somehow the complex melody layers and subject matter of the lyrics resounded better in European ears, which is after all hardly surprising.
Overall, this is a remarkable edition of an iconic Classic Rock album, enriched by massive bonus material and put together with great attention to detail and obvious love, and as such deserves an honorable place in any serious record collection on earth. Essential indeed!
| | Updated: 04/05/2022Posted: 04/05/2022 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTHUR BROWN ~ DANCE (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2847 (Barcode: 5013929484795) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2023
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by British vocalist / songwriter Arthur BrownFind albums by this artist, recorded with an excellent team including guitarists Andy DolbyFind albums by this artist and Barry ClarkFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Chris NicholsFind albums by this artist, bassist Steve YorkFind albums by this artist, drummer Charlie CharlesFind albums by this artist, percussionist Eddie EdwardsFind albums by this artist and saxophonist George KhanFind albums by this artist. The original album presents eleven tracks, six of which are original songs by Brown, two are by Dolby, and the rest are interpretations of songs by others. The expanded edition adds six bonus tracks recorded live by the BBC, all of which appear on the original album.
Brown is one of my all-time favorite British artists, whom I have been following since the late 1960s. His idiosyncratic vocal abilities and incredible musicality is completely unique and his cross-genre explorations, which include everything between Rock, Progressive Rock, Avant-Garde Rock, etc., always spiced with Jazzy underline accents and textures, as well as complete disregard of conventions and Artistic compromises, have always been a source of pure delight.
This album is disguised under the “Dance” moniker, but in fact is a wonderful collection of brilliant songs and clever, often satirical lyrics, which are completely timeless. The excellent remaster brings the music up to date and the saxophone solos by Khan are alone worth the price of the album.
Overall, it is great to see this, mostly forgotten, album back to circulation, and it is a true joy to listen to it again. Still alive and kicking, but sadly mostly in the shadows, Brown deserves to be listened to and learned from, as he remains a true icon of British / European Rock.
| | Updated: 05/01/2024Posted: 05/01/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | VANILLA FUDGE ~ WHERE IS MY MIND? (THE ATCO RECORDINGS 1967-1969)
ESOTERIC 2882 (Barcode: 5013929488243) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2024
This brilliant 9CD Box Set compiles all the recordings by the American Rock group Vanilla FudgeFind albums by this artist released on the AtcoFind albums on this label label. It includes the newly remastered five albums, a live performance and a plethora of bonus material. It also includes an interesting booklet with background material, historical overview and photographs of the group. The original lineup of Vanilla Fudge included lead vocalist / organist Mark SteinFind albums by this artist, guitarist Vince MartellFind albums by this artist, bassist Tim BogertFind albums by this artist and drummer Carmine AppiceFind albums by this artist.
CD1 presents the mono version of the debut eponymous album “Vanilla FudgeFind albums with this title” and three bonus tracks taken from singles.
CD2 presents the stereo version of the debut album two bonus tracks, also taken from singles.
CD3 presents the mono version of the 2nd album “The Beat Goes OnFind albums with this title” and two bonus tracks taken from a single.
CD4 presents the stereo version of the 2nd album and two bonus tracks taken from album outtakes and a single.
CD5 presents the 3rd album “RenaissanceFind albums with this title” and four bonus tracks taken from singles and album outtakes.
CD6 and CD7 present a live concert recorded at the Fillmore West, San Francisco on January 1st 1969.
CD8 presents the 4th album “Near The BeginningFind albums with this title” and seven bonus tracks taken from singles and studio outtakes.
CD9 presents the 5th album “Rock & RollFind albums with this title” and six bonus tracks taken from singles and studio outtakes.
Some of the bonus material as well as the live concert recordings in this Box Set were previously released in 2010 as the “Box Of FudgeFind albums with this title” 4CD Box Set on Rhino HandmadeFind albums on this label, which is now a collectors’ item. The original lineup (with guest musicians) released only one more album “MysteryFind albums with this title” in 1984, but that is another story.
Vanilla Fudge shocked the Rock World with their revolutionary / visionary eponymous album, which offered a new approach to Rock, based on novel arrangements of Pop songs, which were expanded into mammoth pieces stretching several minutes, completely unheard of at the time, inventing Psychedelic and Hard Rock on their way. I vividly remember hearing their music for the first time during the Summer of Love (in 1967 for the oblivious) and I was completely baffled and amazed, by the sheer audacity of these guys, who were doing to Rock almost the same John ColtraneFind albums by this artist was doing to Jazz. Surprisingly, or perhaps not so surprisingly, the young listeners went along and the Vanilla Fudge became extremely popular for a while. The effect of surprise weakened in time, as the group repeated the same formula time and again and later started to record their original material, and the charm was lost, but they have definitely made a most significant mark of the Rock idiom. They surely invented the concept of a cover sounding infinitely more interesting than an original song.
Overall, this is an essential piece of Rock History and having all this material in one box is extremely handy. So if you don’t have these albums individually in your collection, or you miss the a.m. “Box Of Fudge” Box Set, this Box Set is an absolute must have. If you have forgotten how this music sounds, you will thank me for getting back to it I’m sure. There were definitely better days for music!
| | Updated: 07/03/2025Posted: 20/02/2025 | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETER SINFIELD ~ STILL (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1003 (Barcode: 5013929380325) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2009
Only album by legendary lyricist / producer Peter SinfieldFind albums by this artist, the man behind the first four landmark King CrimsonFind albums by this artist albums, where he lurked in the shadows as an informal virtual member of the band. His lyrics and production were an integral part of the magic of these milestone Prog recordings. Once Sinfield and King Crimson terminated their cooperation, he turned into a successful producer for other bands and finally found time to record his only album, which in many ways is a continuation of the work done by King Crimson Mk I. Supported by an assemblage of Prog and Jazz stars, Sinfield created another masterpiece, which although initially callously received by fans and critics alike, in retrospect sounds great today and does not lose ground to the King Crimson recordings. The supporting musicians include Greg LakeFind albums by this artist, Mel CollinsFind albums by this artist, John WettonFind albums by this artist, Ian WallaceFind albums by this artist, Keith TippetFind albums by this artist and numerous other illustrious musicians. The material is often atmospheric and introspective, but some heavier moments are also present. The original album was released on the ManticoreFind albums on this label label, owned by Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, and the new edition adds a plethora of previously unheard alternate tracks and mixes, obviously to the delight of the fans. A must for all Prog-heads!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PFM ~ THE WORLD BECAME THE WORLD (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1005 (Barcode: 5013929380523) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2010
Italian Prog Giants PFMFind albums by this artist (Premiata Forneria Marconi) was among the very few non-UK European Prog groups to actively pursue international exposure outside of their native country. An incidental meeting between the band and Greg LakeFind albums by this artist led to the signing of PFM to the ManticoreFind albums on this label label owned by Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which started to issue English language version of the band´s albums in UK (and US), in parallel to the release of the Italian language versions released in Italy. As a result, several of PFM albums exist in two different versions (and with different titles), creating quite a confusion among record collectors. This album is the second of these "twofold" releases and the band´s 2nd album released in UK. It is almost identical to the band´s 3rd album "L`Isola Di NienteFind albums with this title", re-recorded with English lyrics written by Peter SinfieldFind albums by this artist, who also produced the album.
PFM consisted of keyboardist Flavio PremoliFind albums by this artist, guitarist Franco MussidaFind albums by this artist, violinist / flautist Mauro PaganiFind albums by this artist, bassist Patrick DjivasFind albums by this artist and drummer Franz Di CioccioFind albums by this artist. Among them they possessed incredible instrumental powers, compositional ability and vocal delivery and harmony, which was almost unparallel with any other Prog group at the time. Long and complex instrumental passages, performed mostly on keyboards, quiet contemplative moments of gentle flute and deeply melodic and harmonic compositions and arrangements turned their albums into Prog heaven.
This expanded edition solves the sound quality issues of the earlier releases and adds a massive amount of bonus material. Essential music for body and soul!
| | Updated: 16/01/2022Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PFM ~ PHOTOS OF GHOSTS (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1006 (Barcode: 5013929380622) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2010
Italian Prog Giants PFMFind albums by this artist (Premiata Forneria Marconi) was among the very few non-UK European Prog groups to actively pursue international exposure outside of their native country. An incidental meeting between the band and Greg LakeFind albums by this artist led to the signing of PFM to the ManticoreFind albums on this label label owned by Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which started to issue English language version of the band´s albums in UK (and US), in parallel to the release of the Italian language versions released in Italy. As a result, several of PFM albums exist in two different versions (and with different titles), creating quite a confusion among record collectors. This album is the first of these "twofold" releases and the band´s 1st album released in UK. It is almost identical to the band´s 2nd album "Per Un AmicoFind albums with this title", re-recorded with English lyrics written by Peter SinfieldFind albums by this artist, who also produced the album.
PFM consisted of keyboardist Flavio PremoliFind albums by this artist, guitarist Franco MussidaFind albums by this artist, violinist / flautist Mauro PaganiFind albums by this artist, bassist Giorgio PiazzaFind albums by this artist and drummer Franz Di CioccioFind albums by this artist. Among them they possessed incredible instrumental powers, compositional ability and vocal delivery and harmony, which was almost unparallel with any other Prog group at the time. Long and complex instrumental passages, performed mostly on keyboards, quiet contemplative moments of gentle flute and deeply melodic and harmonic compositions and arrangements turned their albums into Prog heaven.
This expanded edition solves the sound quality issues of the earlier releases and adds a massive amount of bonus material. Essential music for body and soul!
| | Updated: 16/01/2022Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PFM ~ JET LEG (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1007 (Barcode: 5013929380721) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2010
Italian Prog Giants PFMFind albums by this artist (Premiata Forneria Marconi) was among the very few non-UK European Prog groups to actively pursue international exposure outside of their native country. An incidental meeting between the band and Greg LakeFind albums by this artist led to the signing of PFM to the ManticoreFind albums on this label label owned by Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which started to release the band´s albums in UK (and US) and promoted the band worldwide. This was the 5th and last album the band released on the label, which folded soon after.
PFM consisted of vocalist Bernardo LanzettiFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Flavio PremoliFind albums by this artist, guitarist Franco MussidaFind albums by this artist, violinist Gregory BlochFind albums by this artist, bassist Patrick DjivasFind albums by this artist and drummer Franz Di CioccioFind albums by this artist. Among them they possessed incredible instrumental powers, compositional ability and vocal delivery and harmony, which was almost unparallel with any other Prog group at the time. Long and complex instrumental passages, performed mostly on keyboards, quiet contemplative moments and deeply melodic and harmonic compositions and arrangements turned their albums into Prog heaven.
This expanded edition adds a rare live track as a bonus. Essential music for body and soul!
| | Updated: 16/01/2022Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PFM ~ CHOCOLATE KINGS (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1008 (Barcode: 5013929380820) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2010
Italian Prog Giants PFMFind albums by this artist (Premiata Forneria Marconi) was among the very few non-UK European Prog groups to actively pursue international exposure outside of their native country. An incidental meeting between the band and Greg LakeFind albums by this artist led to the signing of PFM to the ManticoreFind albums on this label label owned by Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist, which started to release the band´s albums in UK (and US) and promoted the band worldwide. This was the 4th album the band released on the label.
PFM consisted of vocalist Bernardo LanzettiFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Flavio PremoliFind albums by this artist, guitarist Franco MussidaFind albums by this artist, violinist / flautist Mauro PaganiFind albums by this artist, bassist Patrick DjivasFind albums by this artist and drummer Franz Di CioccioFind albums by this artist. Among them they possessed incredible instrumental powers, compositional ability and vocal delivery and harmony, which was almost unparallel with any other Prog group at the time. Long and complex instrumental passages, performed mostly on keyboards, quiet contemplative moments and deeply melodic and harmonic compositions and arrangements turned their albums into Prog heaven.
This expanded edition adds a whole CD of previously unreleased live material as a bonus. Essential music for body and soul!
| | Updated: 16/01/2022Posted: | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BANCO DEL MUTUO SOCCORSO ~ BANCO
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1009 (Barcode: 5013929380929) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2010
Italian Prog giants Banco Del Mutuo SoccorsoFind albums by this artist were the second Italian Prog band (after PFMFind albums by this artist) signed by the Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist owned ManticoreFind albums on this label label, to promote the band in UK and US.
The band was formed in Rome in 1969 and changed its lineup several times before a stable equilibrium of talent was finally achieved. The founders, brothers Gianni NocenziFind albums by this artist and Vittorio NocenziFind albums by this artist, both keyboards players, were joined by vocalist Francesco Di GiacomoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Rodolfo MalteseFind albums by this artist, bassist Renato D`AngeloFind albums by this artist and drummer Pier Luigi CalderoniFind albums by this artist.
Following the release of three masterpiece albums in their native country, this was their UK debut. It contains three new compositions and the rest of the material consists of re-makes of material from their earlier albums with English lyrics, written by Marva Jan MarrowFind albums by this artist, who also wrote English lyrics for PFM albums.
This is classic stuff, well known to most serious Prog fans, so there is no need to say much more, except for the fact that this album is often mistakes as a "best of" compilation, which it is not by any standard. The English accent is also often ridiculed by some of the less polite critics, which is true in some respect, but has a charm in itself for me. A classic!
| | Updated: 17/05/2019Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BANCO DEL MUTUO SOCCORSO ~ AS IN A LAST SUPPER
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1010 (Barcode: 5013929381025) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2010
Italian Prog giants Banco Del Mutuo SoccorsoFind albums by this artist were the second Italian Prog band (after PFMFind albums by this artist) signed by the Emerson, Lake & PalmerFind albums by this artist owned ManticoreFind albums on this label label, to promote the band in UK and US.
The band was formed in Rome in 1969 and changed its lineup several times before a stable equilibrium of talent was finally achieved. The founders, brothers Gianni NocenziFind albums by this artist and Vittorio NocenziFind albums by this artist, both keyboards players, were joined by vocalist Francesco Di GiacomoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Rodolfo MalteseFind albums by this artist, bassist Renato D`AngeloFind albums by this artist and drummer Pier Luigi CalderoniFind albums by this artist.
Following the release of three masterpiece albums in their native country, this was their second (and sadly the last) UK release and it includes violinist Angelo BraduardiFind albums by this artist in the lineup, who was also responsible for the English language version of the lyrics. The album was released simultaneously in Italy (and with lyrics in Italian) under the title "Come In Un`Ultima CenaFind albums with this title" and in UK under this title.
This is a concept album with the "Last Supper" as it center theme, which raised a certain level of controversy at the time. This is classic stuff, well known to most serious Prog fans, so there is no need to say much more, except for the fact that this album is often considered as the band´s best work. The English accent, often ridiculed by some of the less polite critics, has a charm in itself for me. A classic!
| | Updated: 17/05/2019Posted: | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PFM ~ COOK (EXPANDED DELUXE EDITION)
ESOTERIC / MANTICORE 1011 (Barcode: 5013929381124) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010
This live recording by Italian Prog group PFMFind albums by this artist was always considered as the peak of their international career. Recorded during their 1974 North American tour, the original album released at the time included excerpts from their Toronto and NY performances. This magnificent Box Set presents the original album on the first CD in this set and also the complete NY concert, which occupies the two additional CDs included in the set. Of course the music is excellent, as all PFM fans already know, with the group being at their creative peak, playing their hearts out. In retrospect the extended live performances are even more valuable that the respective studio versions of the songs, presenting Prog music played live with plenty of space for improvisation and unlimited imagination. An absolute must to all PFM fans, Italian Prog fans and basically all listeners of good music!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLOSSEUM ~ LIVE `71
REPERTOIRE 1396 (Barcode: 4009910139622) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2020
This is an archival album by the seminal British Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock band ColosseumFind albums by this artist, recorded live in February and March of 1971 during their UK tour, which yielded their legendary “LiveFind albums with this title” album, which to this day is considered as one of the most important live concert recordings of all time, which sadly proved to be the last album by the early version of the band. Founded in 1968 by drummer Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist the final lineup included also the charismatic vocalist Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist, superb keyboardist Dave GreensladeFind albums by this artist, one of the best British Blues guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist and bassist Mark ClarkeFind albums by this artist.
The music includes mostly original material, which appeared over time on the studio albums, all of which was tested and polished during the band’s many live appearances, reaching a level of perfection, which combined with the highly developed improvisation abilities by the band members (Hiseman, Heckstall-Smith and Greenslade had a Jazz background), produced live performances of unparalleled quality.
The first CD of this 2CD release offers a complete show recorded on February 12, 1971, which as far as I know was previously unissued and is alone worth the price of the album. The show is more relaxed and open to improvisation then the material recorded in March and partly included on the a.m. live album.
The second CD however, is more problematic, since as far as I can see it is identical to the second CD included on the EsotericFind albums on this label reissue “Live (2CD Expanded Edition)Find albums with this title” from 2016, with a confusing, slightly different running order. Why on earth would RepertoireFind albums on this label do this is beyond me.
But as mentioned earlier, every instance of Colosseum material, especially as excellently recorded as the music included here, is worth its weight in gold. It is truly amazing that this music, almost exactly fifty years young, sounds still so exciting today. Absolutely essential stuff!
| | Updated: 18/02/2021Posted: 18/02/2021 | CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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