BUT WAIT... THERE'S MORE! / LIVE 2017

These sophisticated english jazz-rockers re-formed as a band in 2016, just to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their discographic debut touring the U.S.A. The present double set encompasses a full concert of that tour, recorded at Sellersville, Pennsylvania.

Founders John Goodsall (guitar) and Percy Jones (fretless bass), along with drummer (in replace of Phil Collins) Kenwood Dennard, recruited Chris Clark as keyboards player, while Scott Weinberger took the position of percussionist, important but long-time vacant. The tracklist focuses mainly on their first three albums, namely Unorthodox Behavior, studio sophomore Morrocan Roll and Livestock, their 1st live album. Even so, this performance stands by its own. The band shows desire to play, they are in fine form, and the interplay is tight & sensible. Sticking mainly to the original versions, they still retain freedom for brilliant improvisation. Chris Clark adds to the jazzier part of that. Scott Weinberger's percussion could be allowed more presence, to be fair. Kenwood Dennard makes a strong case for his drumming, injecting high levels of welcomed energy. Jones & Goodsall go effortlessly from easy groove to frenetic jazz-rock. Old-time collaborator Stephen W. Tayler mixed this at Peter Gabriel's RealWorld complex, preserving dynamics along with clear sound.

Good in general terms, excellent as a live album.