Embarked on a Germanic culture promotion tour in Italy, OOF played some five or six gig in the peninsula, the last one being Palermo (Sicily) and it got recorded, even though some of it had to be thrown away due to an hilarious "cut the power" incident between the concert hall janitor and the band. The great Garden Of Delights released these tapes in 2008, placated a very average colour picture of the band and as usual took great care in giving all of the possible infos surrounding the gigs, hence the incident recounting mentioned above. Unlike many of the Live albums released by the label, the length of the session makes this release particularly worthy.
If you've been reading me for a while, you'll know I jumped on this album as soon as I heard of its release date, because OOF is one of those groups that have yet to find a flaw in their discography, even if out of their six albums, three are posthumous releases. This live album took place well after the release of their second eponymous album, which is about the time of their peak (arguably some will say the FLMA album is their apex), and I was expecting to hear a lot of that sophomore album. Surprisingly, only two of the six tracks are from any other albums of theirs (and both from the OOF disc), the other four being song projects interrupted by jams and extended solos. As usual with GOD releases, the sound is remarkably good, when not simply superb, and this is all the more enjoyable, because the disc allows us to see a side of the band that was not previously documented on disc before: OOF was as wild, energized and improvising on stage as they were in the studio and here, they played their set in continuity, most of the time linking their tracks together.
If the opening Whispering (taken from OOF) appears to be shortened from 13+ to roughly 9 minutes (not counting the first "crowd and adjustments" minute), but an extended Hennes Hering KB solo (this is close to a Moog experiment that Emerson would've done some two years before) links it with the (surprisingly?) Drechsler-credited Café Stilleto and its 13 minutes KB extravaganza. Again taking no time, the group unleashes into a Moran-credited groove (the I Want To See Your Face No More improv) where he pulls a lengthy flute solo, followed Spori's lengthy drum solo, directly leading in the Where Is Your Home Town improv with Moran pulling an excellent sax solo, joined by Hering's great underlining organ. There is a real track that was probably in the works in what I call the "improv", but obviously, it never saw the light of day.
The only time the group actually stops between tracks is at the start of Fly Bird/TV Program (taken from the eponymous album) that if extended, remains fairly faithful to the studio original, even if with OOF and certainly in the light of this release, such notion can be relative. The closing I'm Kissing Right (where the hell do they get their track titles??? ;o)) is probably the best "improv" of the album and might have been the closest to a future track, Moran not only having real lyrics and actually going wild on the scatting, yelling out his pleasure. I will allow just one comment on the attribution of track credits: on the three historic Kuckuck albums, the song-writing credits were all attributed to the full group, but in the three posthumous release, they are mostly credited to guitarist Dreschsler (a bit strange when knowing his guitar parts are not that determinant to the group's overall sound, but he was at the production desk) and sometimes Moran Neumuller.
So Palermo 72 gives us an excellent look at the live side of Out Of Focus, which seems not that much different from their studio facet, if you'll except an understandable looser and jammier mood on stage. While this live album might not be as strong as the three historic ones and Never Too Late, it certainly matches the usefulness of the Rats Road and is no lesss essential for progheads. OUT OF FOCUS Palermo 1972 music reviews and MP3 ( Review from Progarchives.com)
Songs / Tracks Listing 1- Whispering
2- Café Stiletto
3- I want to see your face no more
4- Where is your home town
5- Fly bird fly - Television program
6- I'm kissing right
Line-up / Musicians
Remigius Drechsler / guitar
Hennes Hering / keyboards
Moran / flute, sax, vocals
Stephan Wiesheu / bass
Klaus Spöri / drums
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Showing posts with label jazz rock. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jazz rock. Show all posts
Monday, 25 April 2011
Out Of Focus - Palermo (2008)
Thursday, 1 April 2010
Potemkine- Nicolas II (1978)
The third album by Potemkine is much more straighter jazz rock fusion styled which on occasion resembles some Mahavishnu Orchestra.
Much less zeuhl here than on previous releases ,except for the closing track which is probably my favourite track.
All in all a very enjoyable album if one prefers a more jazz rock fusion approach and is probably on the whole there strongest and tightest album to date, where the guitar playing is the highlight.
Nicolas II
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Tango Panache (6:18)
2. Raspoutine (5:56)
3. Theme Pour Un Swing Imaginaire (5:37)
4. Air De Famille (3:19)
5. Ode De Mars (5:23)
6. Aux Images (2:41)
7. Amphitheatre Magique (6:45)
Bonus tracks:
8. Laure (4:32)
9. Foetus (6:18)
10. Hymne (2:00)
11. Ballade (6:17)
12. Cycles (2:17)
13. Nuit Sur Le Golan (2:19)
14. Cedille (5:56)
Line-up / Musicians
- Dominique Dubuisson / bass, vocals
- Jean J. Ganghofer / percussion
- Charles Goubin / guitar, vocals
- Michel Goubin / keyboards, vocals
- Philippe Goubin / percussion, drums
- Christian Rouge / percussion
- Jean J. Ganghofer / percussion
- Charles Goubin / guitar, vocals
- Michel Goubin / keyboards, vocals
- Philippe Goubin / percussion, drums
- Christian Rouge / percussion
Potemkine - Nicolas II - Tango Panache
Sunday, 31 January 2010
Akineton Retard - Cadencia Urmana (2006)
This excellent Chilian ensemble once again deliver, on this there fourth release, a highly complex and totally amazing album which incorporates elements of jazz rock, psychedelia, avant garde and RIO ( with touches of Zeuhl) all served up into a very challenging and awesome brew. There's also more than a hint of the "Samla's" with some tongue in cheek humour.
Another outstanding album from this outstanding band whose musicianship is, to say the least, exemplary.
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Cadencia Urmana (4:57)
2. Levitando (5:46)
3. Piel Estática (6:09)
4. Caldopatías (3:31)
5. Mujer de Otoño (3:20)
6. Ansiedade (2:40)
7. Ron Pimiento (5:27)
8. Roces Matutinos (3:21)
9. Flagelo (3:58)
10. Sei Blok (6:12)
Total Time: 45:21
2. Levitando (5:46)
3. Piel Estática (6:09)
4. Caldopatías (3:31)
5. Mujer de Otoño (3:20)
6. Ansiedade (2:40)
7. Ron Pimiento (5:27)
8. Roces Matutinos (3:21)
9. Flagelo (3:58)
10. Sei Blok (6:12)
Total Time: 45:21
Line-up / Musicians - Estratos Akrias / Soprano E Tenor saxophone
- Bolshek Tradib / drums
- Tanderal Anfurness / electric guitar
- Lectra Celdrëj / electric & acoustic bass
- Edén / Alto E Tenor saxophone, Dr. Sample
Guest musicians:
- Minjaveh Ve / trumpet
- Fuentes del César / trombone
- Dj Vaskular / scratch
- Bolshek Tradib / drums
- Tanderal Anfurness / electric guitar
- Lectra Celdrëj / electric & acoustic bass
- Edén / Alto E Tenor saxophone, Dr. Sample
Guest musicians:
- Minjaveh Ve / trumpet
- Fuentes del César / trombone
- Dj Vaskular / scratch
Akinetòn Retard en Teatro Oriente, Santiago 2009
Friday, 8 January 2010
Out Of Focus - Out Of Focus (1971)
First album i heard from these top flight krautrockers and still my favourite.
This second album features the same line up as the first and has everything from the driving "What Can a poor Man Do" to the progressive jazz rock jam of the lengthy "Wisperings" and "Television Program"
Utterly superb progressive jazz /rock Krautrock fusion from a band who deserved wider recognition as every member does there thing from subtle flute to wild sax blowing and the searingly melodic guitar of "Dreschler" to the rock solid bass, and special mention to the terrific drumwork throughout. Definite teamwork here!
An essential krautrock masterpiece!
Songs / Tracks Listing 1. What Can a Poor Boy Do (5:52)
2. It's Your Life (4:31)
3. Whispering (13:34)
4. Blue Sunday Morning (8:20)
5. Fly Bird Fly (5:09)
6. Television Program (11:45)
Total Time: 49:11
Line-up / Musicians
- Remingius Drechsler / guitars, stylophone, tenor saxophone, flutes, voice
- Hennes Hering / organ, piano
- Moran Neumüller / soprano saxophone, vocals
- Klaus Spöri / drums
- Stephen Wishen / bass
Thursday, 31 December 2009
Jan Schaffer - The Chinese (1974)
For me this is "Jan Schaffers" best album with excellent progresssive jazz-rock styled guitar driven instrumentals with that Swedish sound and on accasion some oriental flourishes which goes nicely with the cover artwork.
He's most noted for being a backing guitarist for "Abba". A very talented player. Checkout the excellent live versions of "Fillins Mignon" and one of my favourite songs on the the album "Th Chinese" below.
Download
A1 Halkans Affair
A2 No Registration
A3 Marbles
A4 Titus
B1 The Chinese
B2 Harvest Machine
B3 Daniel Sover
B4 Fillet Mignon
B5 Air Mattress
Janne Schaffer - Fillins Mignon live 74
Janne Schaffer - The Chinese live 74
Sunday, 22 November 2009
Passport - Passport Control (1997)
A really excellent compilation from one of Germany's premier jazz rock fusion bands. All tracks being from there earlier and more inventive albums. A sort of best of really.
The real jem in the crown is "Yellow Dream" which is a track originally heard from 1973 on their "Hand Made" album, but this is a re-recorded version for the various artists sampler " Journey into Space" which is yet to be released on CD. Lovely airy oriental flavors coming through here to this piece with spacey mellotron and bass dominating the intro before settling into a great spacey groove with sax and electric piano joining in to heavier moments. This is passport in a more inventive mode and not too dissimilar to early "Agitation Free". A superb track and worth seeking this album out for, for this track alone!
With "live" and studio tracks this is an excellent listen.
Get it Link
Download mp3Thursday, 5 November 2009
Out Of Focus - Four Letter Monday Afternoon (1972)
The very adventurous third (double) album by this awesome progressive rock band from Munich Germany. Misunderstood by many at the time - deeming them just too out there - this is arguably there masterpiece.
With a full blown brass section and venturing into avant jazzz/rock there's hints of early "Chicago" "Blood Sweat & Tears". But on the whole this is quite different and probably veers more towards say "Soft Machine".
Checkout L.S.B. the opener, with the bands excellent interplay of flute, guitar and organ etc. "Huchen" in three parts takes up the whole of the second disc and is absolutely amazing to say the least. Favourite though has to be "Tsajama" which has a bass riff to die for and fantastic guitar , brass and organ solos. A brilliant track no mistake which hearkens back to the previous self titled album of which i personally think was there best album.
Lengthy instrumental jams and themes dominate the long pieces with elements of Krautrock and Canterbury Jazz rock fully realised with psychedelic touches here and there. Quite the mix really, which is certainly a big step on from there prevous releases, as this abum only contains one or two proper songs and ventures into more different territory.
It's no wonder that "Kuckuck" pulled the plug on them really after this, it was not what was really expected at the time. Seems like they did there own thing on this album and suffered the consequences unfortunately.
On the whole, even if some of the pieces are a little too lengthy and self indulged, this is a MASTERPIECE!!
Line-up / Musicians
With a full blown brass section and venturing into avant jazzz/rock there's hints of early "Chicago" "Blood Sweat & Tears". But on the whole this is quite different and probably veers more towards say "Soft Machine".
Checkout L.S.B. the opener, with the bands excellent interplay of flute, guitar and organ etc. "Huchen" in three parts takes up the whole of the second disc and is absolutely amazing to say the least. Favourite though has to be "Tsajama" which has a bass riff to die for and fantastic guitar , brass and organ solos. A brilliant track no mistake which hearkens back to the previous self titled album of which i personally think was there best album.
Lengthy instrumental jams and themes dominate the long pieces with elements of Krautrock and Canterbury Jazz rock fully realised with psychedelic touches here and there. Quite the mix really, which is certainly a big step on from there prevous releases, as this abum only contains one or two proper songs and ventures into more different territory.
It's no wonder that "Kuckuck" pulled the plug on them really after this, it was not what was really expected at the time. Seems like they did there own thing on this album and suffered the consequences unfortunately.
On the whole, even if some of the pieces are a little too lengthy and self indulged, this is a MASTERPIECE!!
Line-up / Musicians
- Remigius Drechsler / guitars, Tenor saxophone, flutes, stylophone, voice
- Hennse Hering / organ, piano
- Moran Neumüller / Soprano saxophone, vocals
- Klaus Spöri / drums
- Stephen Wishen / bass
+ Hermann Breuer / trombone
- Peter Dechant / acoustic guitar, vocals
- Grand Roman Langhaus / bongos
- Jimmy Polivka / trumpet
- Ingo Schmid-Neuhaus / Alto & Bariton saxes
- Michael Thatcher / organ
- Hennse Hering / organ, piano
- Moran Neumüller / Soprano saxophone, vocals
- Klaus Spöri / drums
- Stephen Wishen / bass
+ Hermann Breuer / trombone
- Peter Dechant / acoustic guitar, vocals
- Grand Roman Langhaus / bongos
- Jimmy Polivka / trumpet
- Ingo Schmid-Neuhaus / Alto & Bariton saxes
- Michael Thatcher / organ
Songs / Tracks Listing
LP 1 (46:07):
1. L.S.B (17:37)
2. When I?m Sleeping (4:04)
3. Tsajama (9:23)
4. Black Cards (9:38)
5. Where Have You Been (5:35)
LP 2 (48:09):
6. A Huchen 55 (9:19)
7. Huchen 55, B (14:32)
8. Huchen 55, C (24:18)
Total Time: 94:16
1. L.S.B (17:37)
2. When I?m Sleeping (4:04)
3. Tsajama (9:23)
4. Black Cards (9:38)
5. Where Have You Been (5:35)
LP 2 (48:09):
6. A Huchen 55 (9:19)
7. Huchen 55, B (14:32)
8. Huchen 55, C (24:18)
Total Time: 94:16
Tuesday, 3 November 2009
Fermata - Dunajska Legenda (1980)
Another highly charged album from "Fermata" with more of that superb guitarwork by "Frantislek Griglak".
Check out "wikina" which is very Mahavishnu styled with fiery guitar. Also "Chotemir" with terrific guitar and melodies, and for some really nice vocals and acoustic guitar go to "Witemir". Favourite tracks though are " Unzat" and "Zilic" with it's syncopated rhythms.
You will fnd this album somewhat more varied than there previous ones and does on occasion sound a little cold in places, but this doesn't take away the albums sheer brilliance from this very talented band who are one of the premium jazz rock/ fusion outfits.
FERMÁTA music, discography, MP3, videos and reviews
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Wlkina (4:09)
2. Chotemir (6:13)
3. Witemir (3:17)
4. Unzat (5:48)
5. Trebiz (6:14)
6. Zilic (3:31)
7. Zuemin (4:52)
8. Koceľ (5:19)
Total Time: 39:23
Bonus tracks on Bonton CD re-isssue (1999):
9. Program Začína
10. Tvár
Lyrics
Line-up / Musicians
- Frantisek Griglák / guitars, keyboards, synthesizers, vocals
- Tomás Berka / keyboards, synthesizers, vocals
- Karol Oláh / drums, percussion
- Fedor Freso / bass, vocals
Fermata Opus Remasters Edition
Fermata - Rendez-Vous ( Live )
National Health - Complete (1990)
Actually this is the first three albums by these legendary Canterburians who play very complexly structured jazz/rock fusions. There's some similarity to "Caravan" with the keyboards especially, and this band has just as much sophistication and artistry as say "Yes" and "King Crimson"
Check out "Tenemos Road" . A superb track which on occasion sounds like a more jazzy "Rennaiscance" with the female vocals and there's some zeuhl flavors in there too.
Excellent music on the whole. Wish the same could be said for the cover!!
Download 1
Download 2
National Health : experimental prog fusion group
Sunday, 1 November 2009
Passport - Second Passport (1972)
Passports earlier albums were the best, as here on there second release. A jazz- rock / Krautrock classic peppered with the exceptional sax work of "Klaus Doldinger".
Every song deserves a description i think, so here goes:
Kicking off with "Mandagora". A lively mix with sax and a great fuzzed bass solo from "Wolfgang Shmid". From here on in we know we are in for a treat.
"Nexus" is more airy and jazzier / melodic with lovely delays on the sax tones then a bass line enters which lifts things up to another dimension. Excellent!
"Fairy Tale" gets down to some krauty funk with the unmistakable melodic lines of "Klaus Doldingers" sax. This really swings and rocks out "Passport" style.
"Registration O" is heavier and "Doldingers" saxwork scorches, while bass and drums work out! The synth and wah bass is great too! This is an outstanding track and quite dark really for this band.
Next up "Horizon Beyond" begins in straighter jazz/rock vein until shifting in mood with more great sax soloing and soon starts rattling along.
Lastly, but not least " The cat From Katmandu" is the most catchiest piece. Those fantastic sax melodies once again shine.
In my opinion "Passport" were and still are probably Germanys finest Jazz/Rock band, if not one of the worlds best too, although they do on occasion get slammed for repeating themselves throughout the course of there numerous albums. Not by me though!
PASSPORT music, discography, MP3, videos and reviews
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Mandragora (3:46)
2. Nexus (5:23)
3. Fairy tale (7:32)
4. Get yourself a second passport (4:03)
5. Registration O (9:24)
6. Horizon beyond (6:46)
7. The cat from Katmandu (4:38)
Total Time: 41:32
Line-up / Musicians
- Klaus Doldinger / soprano & tenor saxes, electric piano, synthesizer
- John Mealing / elelectric piano, organ
- Wolfgang Schmid / bass guitar
- Bryan Spring / drums
Passport - The cat from katmandu
Thursday, 22 October 2009
Dzyan - Dzyan (1972)
Dzyan's debut album is a really good blend of inventive jazz/rock, canterbury fusion.
Less jazzier than there other two albums. It all kicks off with the excellent "Emptiness" which goes through several changes with sax and bass/guitar / percussives - a touch early Passport maybe and Soft Machine here and there. The "Wisdom" is more unusually song structured but suffers from a rather weak guitar section.
"Hymn" is very bleak and "Back To Earth" spices things up with straight heavy rock guitar/bass and drums. "Foghats Work" and "Dragonsong" are my favourite tracks which definitely have some early "Magma" zeuhl elements especially with the vocals.
All in all not an easy album to get into with all the contrasts, and not on a par with there other two albums ( especially "Time Machine") this is nevertheless a very good listen on the whole if you want your jazz/rock more inventive and just plain different.
Download
Songs / Tracks Listing
Less jazzier than there other two albums. It all kicks off with the excellent "Emptiness" which goes through several changes with sax and bass/guitar / percussives - a touch early Passport maybe and Soft Machine here and there. The "Wisdom" is more unusually song structured but suffers from a rather weak guitar section.
"Hymn" is very bleak and "Back To Earth" spices things up with straight heavy rock guitar/bass and drums. "Foghats Work" and "Dragonsong" are my favourite tracks which definitely have some early "Magma" zeuhl elements especially with the vocals.
All in all not an easy album to get into with all the contrasts, and not on a par with there other two albums ( especially "Time Machine") this is nevertheless a very good listen on the whole if you want your jazz/rock more inventive and just plain different.
Download
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Emptiness (9:39)
2. The bud awakes (2:57)
3. The wisdom (10:21)
4. Foghat's work (6:31)
5. Hymn (1:12)
6. Dragonsong (7:31)
7. Things we're looking for (1:52)
8. Back to Earth (4:11)
Total Time: 44:14
2. The bud awakes (2:57)
3. The wisdom (10:21)
4. Foghat's work (6:31)
5. Hymn (1:12)
6. Dragonsong (7:31)
7. Things we're looking for (1:52)
8. Back to Earth (4:11)
Total Time: 44:14
Line-up / Musicians
- Ludwig Braum / drums, percussion
- Gerd Ehrmann / saxophone
- Reinhard Karwatky / bass
- Harry Kramer / guitar
- Jochen Leuschner / percussion, lead vocals
- Gerd Ehrmann / saxophone
- Reinhard Karwatky / bass
- Harry Kramer / guitar
- Jochen Leuschner / percussion, lead vocals
Dzyan - The Wisdom
Monday, 19 October 2009
Kraan - Kraan (1972)
The legendary German krautrockers first album and definitely one of there best.
This is splendid jazz/rock fusion with excellent guitar/bass and sax which could be psychedelic/ prog one minute and then rock with east/west variations the next.
Every track is great and one of the highlights is "Kraan Arabia" which has an arabian sound with the wonderfully unique sax playing of "Johannes Pappert" whilst as ever the brilliant rhythm guitar of "Peter Wolfbrandt" and the ever tight drums/ percussives and bass work weave there magic.
One of the best bands to come out of Germany, and this there debut is a masterwork
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Saras Ritt Durch Schwarzwald (6:23)
2. M.C.Escher (6:14)
3. Kraan Arabia (9:45)
4. Head (18:36)
5. Sara auf der Gansewies (2:01)
Total Time: 42:59
...Bonus tracks on EMI CD
6. Sarah's Ritt durch den Schwarzwald (Demo 1971)
7. M.C.Escher (Demo 1971)
8. Head (Demo 1971)
9. Sarah auf der Gänzwies (Demo 1971)
2. M.C.Escher (6:14)
3. Kraan Arabia (9:45)
4. Head (18:36)
5. Sara auf der Gansewies (2:01)
Total Time: 42:59
...Bonus tracks on EMI CD
6. Sarah's Ritt durch den Schwarzwald (Demo 1971)
7. M.C.Escher (Demo 1971)
8. Head (Demo 1971)
9. Sarah auf der Gänzwies (Demo 1971)
Line-up / Musicians
- Jan Fride / drums
- Hellmut Hattler / bass
- Johannes Pappert / Alto saxophone
- Peter Wolbrandt / guitar, vocals
- Hellmut Hattler / bass
- Johannes Pappert / Alto saxophone
- Peter Wolbrandt / guitar, vocals
Thursday, 15 October 2009
Zyma - Thoughts (1978)
One could be forgiven for thinking that "Zyma" were british for there style has a canterbury sound with "Curved Air" like female vocals. They are actually German, based there anyway.
This is a nice mix of other styles too however, from "Soft Machine" like jazz-rock, canterbury and folk.
" One Way Street " is the most inventive piece with some very erotic vocals and musical mayhem.
" Wasting Time" is undoubtedly the best song with excellent vocals, piano and violin and "Law Like Love" which amazingly at times resembles some "Pancake" from there "No Illusions" album. Check out the tasty guitar and bluesy vocals on this one!
Not exactly a classic, as it's a little uneven in places but does contain enough great music to warrant a place in anyones prog rock collection.
Songs / Tracks Listing
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Thoughts (8:19)
2. Businessman (12:33)
3. One Way Street (8:04)
4. We Got Time (3:43)
5. Wasting Time (9:39)
Bonus tracks:
6. Law Like Love (7:04)
7. Tango Enough (6:01)
Total Time: 55:23
2. Businessman (12:33)
3. One Way Street (8:04)
4. We Got Time (3:43)
5. Wasting Time (9:39)
Bonus tracks:
6. Law Like Love (7:04)
7. Tango Enough (6:01)
Total Time: 55:23
Line-up / Musicians
- Günter Hornung / keyboards
- Bodo Brandl / bass
- Meinrad Hirt / vocals, flute, keyboards, violin
- Karl Heinz Weiler / guitars, vocals
- Tim Pfau / vocals
- Karl-Heinz Weiler / drums
- Bodo Brandl / bass
- Meinrad Hirt / vocals, flute, keyboards, violin
- Karl Heinz Weiler / guitars, vocals
- Tim Pfau / vocals
- Karl-Heinz Weiler / drums
Zyma - Wasting Time
Sunday, 11 October 2009
Fermata - Huascaran (1977)
Probably Fermata's best album. More progressive and varied than there previous two, this is a concept album based on the earthquake in Peru which claimed some 80,000 lives in the vicinity of Huascaran.
Beginning with birdsong and tranquil atmosphere, i guess this is the calm before the storm so to speak. The opener is the longest track here and epic stuff it is too with several changes in mood. Once again the highlights are the awesome guitarwork and we have some mournful violin and great bass and drums. The dialogues between synths and guitar is stunning and is sometimes like Mahavishnu John Mclaughlin.
This is an essential album for all jazz rock/ progressive rock fusion fans. A classic!!
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Huascaran I (13:41)
2. 80 000 (7:30)
3. Solidarity (6:34)
4. Huascaran II (11:13)
Total Time: 38:58
Bonus tracks on Opus re-issue (1996):
5. 15 (4:03)
6. Valparaiso (6:09)
7. Perpetuum (2:17)
Line-up / Musicians - Tomás Berka / piano, synthesizer2. 80 000 (7:30)
3. Solidarity (6:34)
4. Huascaran II (11:13)
Total Time: 38:58
Bonus tracks on Opus re-issue (1996):
5. 15 (4:03)
6. Valparaiso (6:09)
7. Perpetuum (2:17)
- Frantisek Griglák / guitar, piano, synthesizer
- Ladislav Lučenič / bass
- Karol Oláh / drums, percussion
- Peter Oláh / vocals
- Dezider Pito / violoncello
Fermata - Solidarity
Saturday, 10 October 2009
Fermata - Pieseň Z Hôľ (1976)

The first 3 albums by the Slovak group "Fermata" are among there best ; later albums becoming much more synthesized rock unlike the superbly fiery jazz-rock of the earlier ones.
Mahavishnu Orchestra certainly springs to mind on this album ( more so than there others ) with brilliant high flying dexterous guitar work from "Frantisek Griglak" ( ex Collegium Musicum player) which almost rivals "John Mclaughlin".
From superb bass to drums and keys this is one very talented band playing exceptionally tight and intricate fusion which is rather unusual, especially since hailing from the landlocked country of eastern europe.
Every track is top flight jazz rock fusion. The violin on the last track adds some extra color and is a highlight. The guitarwork on the title song is spectacular to say the least.
Songs / Tracks Listing
Every track is top flight jazz rock fusion. The violin on the last track adds some extra color and is a highlight. The guitarwork on the title song is spectacular to say the least.
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Pieseň z hôľ (11:07)
2. Svadba na medvedej lúke (4:15)
3. Posledný jarmok v Radvani (4:31)
4. Priadky (7:37)
5. Dolu Váhom (2:20)
6. Vo Zvolene zvony zvonia (10:10)
Total Time: 40:00
2. Svadba na medvedej lúke (4:15)
3. Posledný jarmok v Radvani (4:31)
4. Priadky (7:37)
5. Dolu Váhom (2:20)
6. Vo Zvolene zvony zvonia (10:10)
Total Time: 40:00
Line-up / Musicians - Tomás Berka / keyboards, percussion
- Frantisek Griglák / guitar, vocals, keyboards
- Anton Jaro / bass
- Milan Tedla / violin, Jew's harp
- Cyril Zeleňák / drums, percussion
- Frantisek Griglák / guitar, vocals, keyboards
- Anton Jaro / bass
- Milan Tedla / violin, Jew's harp
- Cyril Zeleňák / drums, percussion
Fermata: For Huascaran from the album Huascaran - that's the third classic more progressive rock styled album - review coming soon!
Sunday, 4 October 2009
Rhesus O - Rhesus O (1971)
With future Magma keyboarder Jean-Pol Asseline"Rhesus O" played a lively inventive jazz rock fusion with lots of excellent sax playing. The organ and wordless vocals add a nice mysterious quality.
Echoes of Miles Davis and Frank Zappa can be heard. There's also some Magma Zeuhl style flavors coming through which on occasion resembles there first two albums which were more brassy and avant jazz rock based.
A fine album!
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Cigüe (2'42)
2. Maldonne (6'51)
3. Crier Pour Donner (5'29)
4. Le Prophète Egaré (2'16)
5. Préambule (6'21)
6. Eveil (4'39)
7. Outre-Tombe (2'50)
8. Parcours (3'51)
9. Nos Baignoires Sont Enchantées (0'44)
2. Maldonne (6'51)
3. Crier Pour Donner (5'29)
4. Le Prophète Egaré (2'16)
5. Préambule (6'21)
6. Eveil (4'39)
7. Outre-Tombe (2'50)
8. Parcours (3'51)
9. Nos Baignoires Sont Enchantées (0'44)
Line-up / Musicians -Alain Monier/ organ, percu
-Alain Hatot/ soprano, tenor, barytone sax, flûte
-Jean-Pol Asseline/ elec piano, harpsichord
-Francis Moze/ elec bass, ac guit, xylophone
-Serge Lenoir/ elec bass
-Thierry Blanchard/ drums, percu
-Guy Pederson/ double bass, elec bass
-Jean Stout/ choir conductor
-Alain Hatot/ soprano, tenor, barytone sax, flûte
-Jean-Pol Asseline/ elec piano, harpsichord
-Francis Moze/ elec bass, ac guit, xylophone
-Serge Lenoir/ elec bass
-Thierry Blanchard/ drums, percu
-Guy Pederson/ double bass, elec bass
-Jean Stout/ choir conductor
Saturday, 3 October 2009
Sloche - J'un Oell (1975)
A really excellent band from Quebec. This is there first album.
There sound is spacey/ complex and certainly some "Gentle Giant" springs to mind while listening. Especially on tracks like "Le Karême D'Eros"
All the instrumentals and vocals are fantastic.
A must have in anyones progrock collection.
Songs / Tracks Listing 1. C'pas la fin du Monde (8:45)
2. Le Karême D'Eros (10:40)
3. J'un Oeil (4:41)
4. Algébrique (6:23)
5. Potage Aux Herbes Douteuses (7:05)
Total Time: 37:34
2. Le Karême D'Eros (10:40)
3. J'un Oeil (4:41)
4. Algébrique (6:23)
5. Potage Aux Herbes Douteuses (7:05)
Total Time: 37:34
Line-up / Musicians
- Réjean Yacola / piano, vocals
- Martin Murray / organ, synthesizer, saxophone, vocals
- Caroll Bérard / guitar, vocals
- Pierre Hébert / bass, vocals
- Gilles Chiasson / drums, vocals
- Martin Murray / organ, synthesizer, saxophone, vocals
- Caroll Bérard / guitar, vocals
- Pierre Hébert / bass, vocals
- Gilles Chiasson / drums, vocals
Sloche - C'pas la fin du monde
Thursday, 24 September 2009
Ragnarok - Fata Morgana (1981)
The very rare masterpiece from Swedens "Ragnarok" which unlike there lighter previous album ( though a classic ) this is a scorcher with blistering guitar and brass with that unique swedish sound. Take "Fata Morgana" an unbelievebly heavy piece which sounds unlike anything else really in the jazz rock field. Totally unique and innovative while swinging in certain parts as on "Jatora Em Bak". Then there's the excellent "Vild Av Friden" a ballad like instrumental with gritty sax blasting away in a surge of emotive power.
"Leningrad 1 & 2 are probably my favourite tracks, beginning with gentle acoustic guitars and flute, but then becoming disquiting and more intense before returning to the opening theme. Then xylophone and a throbbing bass clash with rolling drums as the piece gets more intense and builds with fuzzed guitar screams and dirty sax colliding in a marching whirlpool of sound . Suddenly a melody breaks in and we reach the climax.
The heaviest is yet to come though in the form of "Elephanten Da Tagat" , another astounding track which pulls together all the elements of the whole album. Finally we go out on a more reflective note with "Eskapage"
This is truly an unbelievable album and one of my very top recommendations, especially if you like your jazz rock more innovative folky progressive and heavy.
"Fata Morgana" is in a style of it's own partly due to the very individual "Peter Bryngellson" guitar sound. Don't miss it!!
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. Midvinterblot I
2. Fata Morgana
3. Jatora em Bak
4. Vild av Friden
5. Leningrad I & II
6. Midvinterblot II
7. Elefanten pa Taget
8. Eskapage
2. Fata Morgana
3. Jatora em Bak
4. Vild av Friden
5. Leningrad I & II
6. Midvinterblot II
7. Elefanten pa Taget
8. Eskapage
Line-up / Musicians
- Peter Bryngelsson / guitars, keyboards, xylophone, bouzouki, glocken spiel
- Tomas Wiegert / drums, xylophone
- Kjell Karlgren / sax, flute, keyboards
- Per F. Andersson / bass, xylophone, glocken spiel, trumpiano
- Magnus Jarlbo / trumpet, flugel hron, keyboards
- Tomas Wiegert / drums, xylophone
- Kjell Karlgren / sax, flute, keyboards
- Per F. Andersson / bass, xylophone, glocken spiel, trumpiano
- Magnus Jarlbo / trumpet, flugel hron, keyboards
Monday, 21 September 2009
Neo - Neo (1980)
An obscure French band whose sole album is a really classic fiery spacey progressive rock instrumental with absolutely scorching guitarwork throughout and theres lots of nice sax work too.
The pace does let up a little on tracks "Joiwind" and "Plage 2" which are excellent full on melodic synth based tracks with some "Klaus Schulze" type sound.
An amazing album for sure and a splendid mix of light and dark space rock fusion elements
Bass Guitar - André Paul
Drums, Percussion -Ric Haven
Guitar -André Pélerin
Keyboards -Schlapp
Saxophone, Flute -Didier Erard
Drums, Percussion -Ric Haven
Guitar -André Pélerin
Keyboards -Schlapp
Saxophone, Flute -Didier Erard
Monday, 3 August 2009
One Shot - ( 1999 )
Comprised of mostly ex-Magma musicians " One Shot's " debut album is an excellent jazz-rock come zeuhl fusion.
Extremely well played instrumentals with the electric guitar at the fore. There's a touch King Crimson on some tracks too. Favourite has to be the closer " Riff Fantom " although every track is splendid.
Songs / Tracks Listing
1. M.D.M. (8:25)
2. Monsieur G. (4:37)
3. Trente Trois (5:24)
4. One Shot (10:10)
5. La Main Du Diable (11:26)
6. Un Jour Dans L'Est (10:00)
7. Riff Fantom (9:23)
Total time: 59:25
Line-up / Musicians - Emmanuel Borghi / Fender Rhodes, synthesizer
- James MacGaw / guitar
- Daniel Jeand'heur / drums
- Philippe Bussonnet / bass
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