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17 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.

SPLINTERS ~ INCLUSIVITY
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 26 (Barcode: 5060774190258) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music

Recorded: 1972 Released: 2021

This is an archival 3CD album by British Jazz supergroup SplintersFind albums by this artist, which presents two live recordings, both from 1972, the first at the legendary London 100 Club (on CD 1 and 2) and the second from the opening night at the (then) newly opened Grass Roots club (on CD 3). The music was captured on cassettes and was carefully restored to today’s standard as far as possible. The 100 Club material was previously released in part by the Reel RecordingsFind albums on this label label in 2009 as “Split The DifferenceFind albums with this title”, and is here presented in its full form and the Grass Roots material is previously unreleased. The album is released in a lavish LP sized book format, and includes beautiful photographs by Jack KirbyFind albums by this artist and extensive essay by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist – an obvious work of love and dedication, which is the modus operandi of the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label.

The Splinters collective is truly unique in every sense, but the most striking trait of this ensemble is the meeting of generations, united by the inner urge to express their musical ideas as expressively and unrestrictedly as humanly possible. Three of the protagonists of this session, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist (b. 1926), who appears on CD 1 and 3 only, drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist (b. 1926) and saxophonist Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist (b. 1935) were already British Jazz legends at the time of this recording, with years of experience and established careers to their credit. All were immensely influential on the then growing up generation of the British New Wave of rebellious young players, who wished to emancipate the music they played from the restrictions of strict Jazz forms, patterns and rhythmical uniformity established since the genre´s conception and developed during its first half century in the USA.

Tracey, Seamen and Hayes were the necessary missing link between the Jazz tradition and the gradual but revolutionary development that occurred in British Jazz from the mid-1960s on. Surprisingly, Tracey and Seamen, both older than Hayes, proved to be the more adventurous, shunning from nothing and keeping their sensitivity completely up to date. Tracey fully embraced Free Jazz and Improvised Music and Seamen was active not only in the Jazz area, but also took part in early Jazz-Rock, Rock and even early World-Jazz activities, mainly through his faithful pupil and protégé Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist. Hayes remained somewhat more "conventional", expanding his Bebop approach with some freedom, but remaining firmly within the established parameters. Perhaps the future might have proved differently, but Hayes died prematurely just a year after this music was recorded.

The rest of the "crew" captured here: saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist (b. 1939), who taped this music and was the initiator behind Splinters, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (b. 1930), bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (b. 1937) and drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist (b. 1940), were the (not necessarily chronologically, but definitely spiritually) young Lions spearheading British Jazz into a new direction. The idea behind this session was to provide an open and most importantly completely free of any pre-conceptions environment for the musicians to express their ideas.

Overall, as with much contemporary Jazz at the time, the idea of free flow and mutual respectful listening is the core of creation here. The music consists of long improvised pieces, with no strict melody lines, but full of very "melodic" playing, which makes perfect sense musically. This is group improvisation at its best, full of musical interplay and mutual inspiration respectful of each other´s "moment" and bearing at each particular instant. In many respects this is a classic "textbook" recording, which could be used as a perfect demonstration of what group improvisation really is. As someone must have said sometime: "you can´t plan lovemaking", this music, although unplanned, is a pure work of love. Beyond essential!
Updated: 07/12/2021Posted: 07/12/2021CD 3 Digibook Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

PAM & GARY WINDO ~ AVANT GARDENERS
REEL RECORDINGS 001 (Barcode: 641444015320) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1974 - 1976 Released: 2007

Saxophonist Gary WindoFind albums by this artist was one of the most prominent figures on the British Jazz scene. A brilliant player and improviser, he led his own group as well as cooperated with ensembles such as Brotherhood Of BreathFind albums by this artist, CentipedeFind albums by this artist, Matching MoleFind albums by this artist and others. He also worked with many musicians associated with the Canterbury scene, like Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and Robert WyattFind albums by this artist. He played also with Pink FloydFind albums by this artist’s drummer Nick MasonFind albums by this artist. Gary died in 1992, sadly prematurely when his immense contribution to music was cut short much before it was exhausted. This album presents Gary in a series of improvised music pieces recorded with his pianist wife Pam WindoFind albums by this artist in a duo, trio (with Frank PerryFind albums by this artist on percussion) and quartet (with Harry MillerFind albums by this artist on bass and Louis MoholoFind albums by this artist on drums) settings. The music is a superb example of spontaneous creation, complex and demanding, but richly rewarding. Intended to Free Jazz and Improvised Music enthusiasts.
 CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

KEVIN AYERS ~ HYDE PARK FREE CONCERT 1970
REEL RECORDINGS 002 (Barcode: 641444015627) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1970 Released: 2007

After leaving the Soft MachineFind albums by this artist (of which he was a founding member) and recording the debut solo album (Joy Of A ToyFind albums with this title), guitarist / singer / composer Kevin AyersFind albums by this artist formed the Whole WorldFind albums by this artist band to record his second album (Shooting At The MoonFind albums with this title) and support its release by touring. This live recording captures the performance of Ayers and his band at the legendary London’s Hyde Park free concert, which had on the bill the most famous bands of the time performing in front of a 100,000 strong public – a record attendance to a rock venue in UK up to that time. Pink FloydFind albums by this artist performed their Atom Heart MotherFind albums with this title suite for the first time at that concert. Ayers and his cahoots, including David BedfordFind albums by this artist on keyboards, Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist on saxophones, Mike OldfieldFind albums by this artist on bass and Robert WyattFind albums by this artist on drums, storm through a bunch of Kevin’s song with vengeance, as appropriate for such eclectic gig, and the whole set is captured exactly as it happened – a true piece of rock history. Coxhill’s brilliant contributions were always my favorite part of that particular band. The sonic quality might not be perfect, but considering this was a “field recording” done 37 years ago – who gives a damn? Priceless stuff!
 CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

G. F. FITZ-GERALD / LOL COXHILL ~ ECHOES OF DUNEDEN
REEL RECORDINGS 003 (Barcode: 641444015528) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1975 Released: 2007

Scottish guitarist G. F. Fitz-GeraldFind albums by this artist is an Avant-Garde musician best known for his 1970 MouseproofFind albums with this title album. His activities span Psychedelic, Avant-Rock and Free Jazz. This album presents him in cooperation with one of the greatest British improvisers, saxophonist Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist, performing a series of musical “conversations”. Recorded live at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and selected from hours of material, this is a most wonderful window into the intimate world of spontaneous music creation by two masters. Coxhill is at his best here, always lyrical and often strangely romantic, even at the very peak of heated improvisation. The interplay is telepathic and inspired. Not an easy listening, but a most rewarding intellectual experience. Intended for Improvised Music enthusiasts.
Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

KEN HYDER / TALISKER ~ DREAMING OF GLENISLA
REEL RECORDINGS 004 (Barcode: 641444015429) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion

Recorded: 1975 - 1976 Released: 2007

Scottish drummer / composer Ken HyderFind albums by this artist and his TaliskerFind albums by this artist ensemble were one of the most interesting groups on the UK Free Jazz scene in the mid-1970s. I recall hearing their performances several times at London’s typical jazz venues and those were always most enjoyable. As Hyder states in the liner notes for this reissue, he decided to go back to his Scottish / Celtic roots after playing for years American influenced music, while overlooking their own traditional music. This amalgam of Scottish roots and melodies with the powers of Jazz improvisation creates something completely new and quite surprising. The attempt to find the unifying elements of all music, regardless of its tradition or source is exemplified here beautifully. The band, an unusual quintet, with two horns and two bass players, includes Hyder on drums with Davie WebsterFind albums by this artist on alto sax, John RangecroftFind albums by this artist on tenor sax and clarinet, Lindsay CooperFind albums by this artist and Marc MeggidoFind albums by this artist on bass. The music is mostly composed by Hyder or arranged by him based on traditional motifs. This album captures a really unusual and often sadly forgotten moment of the splendid UK Jazz scene at that time and it’s really great to have it back. Most wholeheartedly recommended!
 CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

RAY RUSSELL ~ SECRET ASYLUM
REEL RECORDINGS 005 (Barcode: 641444015726) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007

Guitarist / composer Ray RussellFind albums by this artist was a dominant figure on the British Jazz scene in the late 1960s / early 1970s, making numerous seminal recordings as sideman and leader in a wide variety of styles ranging from Jazz-Rock Fusion, modern Jazz and even Avant-Garde Free Jazz. This reissue of his classic album shows him at the extreme edge of his work in the field of Free Jazz and is a wonderful example of the genre, similar to the work done earlier by John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist with John SurmanFind albums by this artist on Where Fortune SmilesFind albums with this title. Accompanied by a splendid group of musicians that includes Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Gary WindoFind albums by this artist on sax, Daryl RunswickFind albums by this artist on bass and Alan RushtonFind albums by this artist on drums, Russell presents a series of his compositions, which vary from contemplative pieces to group improvisation mayhem, all performed splendidly. Beckett is more prominent on the quieter pieces and Windo leads the massive “wall of sound” sections, with his incredible virtuosity. The album achieved little attention at the time of its release, but now 35 years after it was recorded, it can be really appreciated in full and in the proper historic perspective. Definitely worth checking out!
Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

MIKE OSBORNE ~ FORCE OF NATURE
REEL RECORDINGS 006 (Barcode: 641444026128) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1980 - 1981 Released: 2008

British saxophone Giant Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist retired from active performing by the end of 1982 as a result of his mental illness, leaving the local Free Jazz scene with an enormous empty space. Although his playing is relatively well documented starting in the late 1960s, when he was an active participant in creating the British Jazz revolution / emancipation, and in the 1970s when he played with the most prestigious ensembles, but his last period before his untimely retirement remains almost completely undocumented. Therefore these recordings, dating from the early 1980s, shortly before he was to stop performing are priceless and of great historic importance. The two sessions presented here are both quartet recordings with Dave HoldsworthFind albums by this artist on trumpet and alternating bassists Marcio MattosFind albums by this artist / Paul BridgeFind albums by this artist and drummers Brian AbrahamsFind albums by this artist / Tony MarshFind albums by this artist. Osborne´s playing is fluid and passionate, presenting the absolute heights of improvisational artistry. Both quartets present the usual level of telepathic interplay present in Free Jazz situation, with all musicians performing brilliantly. Osborne died in 2007, leaving behind him a legacy, which proves beyond any doubt that he was a true Force of Nature. Brilliant stuff!
 CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

STEVE MILLER ~ MEETS ELTON DEAN
REEL RECORDINGS 007 (Barcode: 641444027729) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1976 - 1985 Released: 2008

British pianist Steve MillerFind albums by this artist (brother of guitarist Phil MillerFind albums by this artist) started his way on the Canterbury scene when he played with legendary bands like DeliveryFind albums by this artist and CaravanFind albums by this artist, but by the late 1970s he reexamined his ambitions and musical approach and moved to play Free Jazz, as did many of his Canterbury cahoots. In the mid 1980s Steve led his own trio with Tony MooreFind albums by this artist on bass and Eddie PrevostFind albums by this artist on drums, performing a series of concerts with guest saxophone players, which included Lol CoxhillFind albums by this artist, Bobby WellinsFind albums by this artist, Harrison SmithFind albums by this artist and Elton DeanFind albums by this artist. The recording on this album present the concert with Dean and it is a remarkable document of the British Avant-Garde Jazz at the time. As a bonus an earlier encounter between Miller and Dean, featuring another Canterbury hero, the drummer Pip PyleFind albums by this artist, is also included. Considering the fact that Miller died prematurely in 1998 and Dean is also already on the other side since 2006, this album is a splendid addition to their legacy and a delight to their many admirers. British Jazz enthusiasts will of course be especially delighted to hear this material. Recommended!
Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

SOFT HEAP ~ AL DENTE
REEL RECORDINGS 008 (Barcode: 641444027927) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1978 Released: 2008

Soft HeapFind albums by this artist was 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 one (eponymous) studio album and disbanded shortly afterwards, with each musician pursuing their own path. This wonderful album presents one of the very few live gigs the band played live in London and is of course a Canterbury dream comes true. 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 – we can hear here a composition by Gowen, which was never previously available on record and the band´s name (second word) is an acronym of the band´s first names. Considering the fact that Gowen, Dean and Pyle are no longer with us (they passed away in 1981, 2006 and 2006 respectively) and Hopper is fighting leukemia at the time these lines are written, this is a tremendously important document of an era, which unfortunately is long time gone. A must for any Canterbury fan!
 CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

KEVIN AYERS ~ WHAT MORE CAN I SAY…
REEL RECORDINGS 009 (Barcode: 641444032228) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2008

Canterbury scene founder (or at least one of the founders) Kevin AyersFind albums by this artist reveals here a bunch of his private recordings (demos, outtakes, etc.) from the early days of his solo career (after leaving Soft MachineFind albums by this artist), recorded mostly by himself (vocals, guitar, piano) and all written by himself. A few regular cohorts (David BedfordFind albums by this artist – organ, Mike OldfieldFind albums by this artist – bass, Robert WyattFind albums by this artist – drums) give a helping hand on occasion, but mostly this is Ayers by himself, demonstrating his amazing songwriting abilities and a unique delivery. This is a superb document of the early 1970s music, but also of the social climate and the care-free approach to life that characterized the bohemian scene Ayers was so much a part of. "Portrait of an Artist as a young man" is a very suitable description and this is not only a historical document but also a delightful trip down the memory lane, back to times long gone and much missed. The dedicated Ayers fans will of course be delighted to listen to this material, and considering the fact that none of it was ever heard before this is a Canterbury Holy Grail in many respects. Wholeheartedly recommended!
 CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

COMMAND ALL STARS ~ CURIOSITIES 1972
REEL RECORDINGS 010 (Barcode: 676868178023) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1972 Released: 2008

This album is a great example of what the Canadian Reel RecordingsFind albums on this label label is all about: unearthing recorded documents of the British Jazz / Avant-Garde scene dating back to the 1960s, which have been so far completely lost and (sadly) often forgotten. Considering the fact that the Golden Decade (1965-1975) was Britain´s most illustrious contribution to music, any recorded document from that period has an immense historical value and therefore the work done by this label is truly a quest worth following. The music contained herein was recorded with the intention to be released as a double album, presenting the Art of spontaneous improvisation, performed by a collective of young (at the time) but experienced British players, who spearheaded the local Free Jazz / Improvised Music scene and certainly deserved the "stardom" status in spite of the oxymoron such epithet might imply: pianist Keith TippettFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, trombonist Nick EvansFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Mark CharigFind albums by this artist, bassists Harry MillerFind albums by this artist and Johnny DyaniFind albums by this artist and drummer Keith BaileyFind albums by this artist. These musicians often played with each other in various ensembles, of which they were members, but never collectively as one group, hence the one-time opportunity to hear them improvise collectively is so attractive. Unfortunately, as it often happened at the time, even with Jazz labels as the one for which these recordings were made, the label found this music to be "too much to swallow" and the project was discarded, including whipping out the original master tapes (a crime, without a doubt). Fortunately two copies of the original four reels were recently discovered by Evans and here we are being able to finally listen to this music. The music itself needs little elucidation to people familiar with the recorded output of the protagonists – it is what they always did best, play whatever their hearts dictated at the moment, carefully listening to each other and together creating a whole, which is much bigger than its parts. The album also includes two tracks recorded later the same year (for the BBC? as the recording premises might suggest) by a sextet including Dean, Evans and Charig with guitarist Jeff GreenFind albums by this artist, bassist Neville WhiteheadFind albums by this artist and drummer Louis MoholoFind albums by this artist. This is a true "blast from the past" and an absolute must for any British Jazz / Avant-Garde fan, wholeheartedly recommended!
Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

BOB DOWNES / OPEN MUSIC ~ CROSSING BORDERS
REEL RECORDINGS 011 (Barcode: 676868177828) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1978 - 1979 Released: 2008

British flautist / saxophonist / composer Bob DownesFind albums by this artist and his Open MusicFind albums by this artist ensemble (a constantly changing group of musical cohorts) were always one of the most interesting acts on the British Jazz scene in the late 1960s / 1970s. Downes participated in many of the pivotal recording made at the time by other bandleaders, but in parallel always led his own ensemble which played the music he composed. His ability to combine melody and Free Improvisation into a unique amalgam was always his forte and his recordings are great examples of the limitless musical efforts, which are typical of the period. This release presents an album, previously unreleased, featuring compositions inspired by a 1973 South American tour, recorded several years later with a great cast of musicians: guitarist Brian GoddingFind albums by this artist, trombonist Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist, bassists Barry GuyFind albums by this artist, Mark MeggidoFind albums by this artist and Paul BridgeFind albums by this artist and drummers Dennis SmithFind albums by this artist and John StevensFind albums by this artist – all of which are exemplary representatives of the British Jazz scene at its peak. Considering the fact that this music is previously unheard, it seems such a shame it laid hidden from our ears for so long, but as usual all is well that ends well, so here it is finally for us to savor. Downes´ fans need no encouragement to grab this album instantly, but British Jazz fans not familiar with his output should definitely investigate, especially in view of the fact that the melody lines and his amazing flute virtuosity make the improvised passages "easier on the ear" for less experienced listeners.
 CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

HARRY MILLER / ISIPINGO ~ FULL STEAM AHEAD
REEL RECORDINGS 012 (Barcode: 676868177927) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1975 - 1977 Released: 2008

Harry MillerFind albums by this artist brought over from his native South Africa a whole universe of music, which he and several of his South African musical cohorts injected into the British Jazz scene at a time of its greatest glory, not only musically but also socially, when it opened its arms and embraced any worthy influence, be it from India, Middle East, Far East or any other part of the crumbling Empire. Harry was always one of the most revered Masters of the bass and the warm tone and full body of his instrument ornamented countless recordings made by British bandleaders in the 1970s. However, Harry´s heart was always warmest to the amalgam of Free Improvised Jazz based on South African roots. His performances with the Brotherhood Of BreathFind albums by this artist and with his own roots ensemble IsipingoFind albums by this artist are clear evidence of the fact. Sadly Isipingo recorded just one album and therefore this new release, which presents a set of wonderful (mostly studio) recordings, all previously unreleased, is a true delight to every one of the many Harry´s fans around the globe. Made in cooperation with the Miller family label OgunFind albums on this label Records, run by his wife Hazel, this album is a heaven on earth in every respect – the music is delightful, the sound quality excellent and the historical value immeasurable. The lineup of the sextet changes slightly on the tracks present here, including saxophonist Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Mark CharigFind albums by this artist and Mongezi FezaFind albums by this artist, trombonists Nick EvansFind albums by this artist, Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist and Paul NeimanFind albums by this artist, pianists Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist, Keith TippettFind albums by this artist and Frank RobertsFind albums by this artist, Miller on bass and drummer Louis MoholoFind albums by this artist. The music, all composed by Miller, charges full steam ahead indeed, preserving absolutely all of its vitality and high spirited energy. This album deserves a well respected place in any serious British Jazz album collection and hopefully will be discovered by many new listeners, who missed this wonderful music when it was performed live, being one more testimony to the fact that Harry´s untimely death in 1983 was a tremendous loss for all music lovers.
Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

SPLINTERS ~ SPLIT THE DIFFERENCE
REEL RECORDINGS 013 (Barcode: 775020938328) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1972 Released: 2009

The Canadian Reel Recordings label does it again! Following a series of splendid British Jazz archival releases, which expose many previously unheard musical creations during the Golden Age of British Jazz, this addition to its catalogue is perhaps the most sensational and revealing. Obviously the feverish activity, that characterized this unprecedented period, produced a vast amount of groundbreaking music, which unfortunately was only partially captured on tape. Therefore unearthing another piece of that wonderful puzzle is always exciting and educational.

The SplintersFind albums by this artist collective is truly unique in every sense, but the most striking trait of this ensemble is the meeting of generations, united by the inner urge to express their musical ideas as expressively and unrestrictedly as humanly possible. Three of the protagonists of this session, recorded live at the legendary 100 Club, London´s primary Jazz dungeon for many years, pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist (b. 1926), drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist (b. 1926) and saxophonist Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist (b. 1935) were already British Jazz legends at the time of this recording, with years of experience and established careers to their credit. All were immensely influential on the then growing up generation of the British New Wave of rebellious young players, who wished to emancipate the music they played from the restrictions of strict Jazz forms, patterns and rhythmical uniformity established since the genre´s conception and developed during its first half century in the USA.

Tracey, Seamen and Hayes were the necessary missing link between the Jazz tradition and the gradual but revolutionary development that occurred in British Jazz from the mid-1960s on. Surprisingly, Tracey and Seamen, both older than Hayes, proved to be the more adventurous, shunning from nothing and keeping their sensitivity completely up to date. Tracey fully embraced Free Jazz and Improvised Music and Seamen was active not only in the Jazz area, but also took part in early Jazz-Rock, Rock and even early World-Jazz activities, mainly through his faithful pupil and protégé Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist. Hayes remained somewhat more "conventional", expanding his Bebop approach with some freedom, but remaining firmly within the established parameters. Perhaps the future might have proved differently, but Hayes died prematurely just a year after this music was recorded.

The rest of the "crew" captured here: saxophonist Trevor WattsFind albums by this artist (b. 1939), who taped this music and was the initiator behind Splinters, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (b. 1930), bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (b. 1937) and drummer John StevensFind albums by this artist (b. 1940), were the (not necessarily chronologically, but definitely spiritually) young Lions spearheading British Jazz into a new direction. The idea behind this session was to provide an open and most importantly completely free of any pre-conceptions environment for the musicians to express their ideas.

As with much contemporary Jazz at the time, the idea of free flow and mutual respectful listening is the core of creation here. The music consists of two long (47 and 30 minutes) improvised pieces, with no strict melody lines, but full of very "melodic" playing, which makes perfect sense musically. This is group improvisation at its best, full of musical interplay and mutual inspiration respectful of each other´s "moment" and bearing at each particular instant. In many respects this is a classic "textbook" recording, which could be used as a perfect demonstration of what group improvisation really is. As someone must have said sometime: "you can´t plan lovemaking", this music, although unplanned, is a pure work of love. Beyond essential!
Updated: 07/12/2021Posted: CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend

SOFT MACHINE ~ LIVE AT THE HENIE ONSTAD ART CENTRE 1971
REEL RECORDINGS 014/015 (Barcode: 775020975323) ~ UK ~ Canterbury Scene

Recorded: 1971 Released: 2009

This a live recording by the seminal UK band Soft MachineFind albums by this artist recorded in Norway at the very creative peak of the band´s outstanding career. Saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike RatledgeFind albums by this artist, bassist Hugh HopperFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert WyattFind albums by this artist perform two continuous, mostly improvised sets, each about 45 minutes long, which makes this particular album different from all the other Soft Machine live albums, where the band performs compositions previously recorded in the studio. In addition, the perfect sound quality of this recording, which was done professionally, is undoubtedly the best ever Soft Machine live recording sound captured on tape. In addition, this release is accompanied by a CD-ROM audio-visual documentary about the band and the circumstances of this recording, which is superbly done and highly educative. In short this is truly an outstanding musical document of great value, not only to the band´s fan base but to all enthusiast of British Jazz as well. A must and a feast to our ears!
 CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DON RENDELL / IAN CARR ~ LIVE AT THE UNION 1966
REEL RECORDINGS 016 (Barcode: 775020996229) ~ UK ~ Jazz

Recorded: 1966 Released: 2010

If one had to pick up just one British ensemble, which would epitomize the British Jazz in the 1960s and its momentous development and emancipation from the early American Jazz basics into a full fledged European Jazz extravaganza, the Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian CarrFind albums by this artist Quintet would probably fit the bill most appropriately. The quintet´s five superb albums stand out to this day as one of the genre´s finest recordings and therefore any additional recording capturing these magnificent players in action is a rare and precious jewel, especially in view of the fact that this one is beautifully recorded and sounds just perfect. The quintet includes also the extraordinary pianist / composer Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, who wrote most of the quintet´s music, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. On this particular recording Green plays only on the first two tracks (due to the fact that he had another gig the same evening) and is replaced for the rest of the duration by no other than Tony ReevesFind albums by this artist (New Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, ColosseumFind albums by this artist, GreensladeFind albums by this artist, etc.). This is a rare and wonderful opportunity to hear Tony´s superb Jazz bass abilities. This is a beautiful gift to all British Jazz enthusiasts, especially in view of Ian´s sad departure. A must!
 CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

RADAR FAVOURITES ~ RADAR FAVOURITES
REEL RECORDINGS 017 (Barcode: 654367021033) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock

Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010

The short lived British Prog / Experimental Rock band Radar FavoritesFind albums by this artist, led by saxophonist Geoff LeighFind albums by this artist (Henry CowFind albums by this artist) and comprising of keyboardist Cathy WilliamsFind albums by this artist, guitarist G. F. Fitz-GeraldFind albums by this artist, bassist Jack MonckFind albums by this artist and drummer Charles HaywardFind albums by this artist, never managed to record an album before circumstances brought to its demise. This great album collects all the existing material by the band, including some studio recordings made towards the band´s debut album and some live material. Considering the fact that this material is virtually unknown to most Prog fans it´s quite and ear-opener. Although Rock based, the music includes a lot of improvisation and wild conic excursions, complex structures and other unusual elements, which make it different from most other stuff recorded at the time. There is a lot to be discovered here, requiring several listening sessions, but this is an ultra-rare historic gem finally recovered from oblivion, hopefully to be discovered by contemporary listeners. Wholeheartedly recommended, especially to RIO fans!
 CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

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