MASTER STROKES: 1978-1985

An excellent compilation of Bruford's solo works, and it makes a great starting point for those unfamiliar with his fusion/Canterbury work. It covers his material fairly well, with the classics "Beelzebub", "Hell's Bells" and "Fainting in Coils" present, albeit in abridged form. The album also contains some of Bruford's collaborations with Keyboardist extraordinaire Patrick Moraz, and they are all high quality jazz fusion. Included as well are the U.K., never recorded tracks "Sahara of Snow" (co-authored with Eddie Jobson), which popped up in Bruford's solo work, and the majority of his second album ONE OF A KIND (1979), his masterpiece.

As can be expected, the the musicianship from Bruford's supergroup band is stellar, and the pieces are some of the best fusion ever recorded. Highly recommended for beginners to Bruford's incredible solo work, but be aware it is not symphonic prog, just very English, Dave Stewart tinged jazz-rock. Great album, very solid three stars. Not essential, but solid.

Bruford's three solo albums, FEELS GOOD TO ME (1978), ONE OF A KIND (1979), and GRADUALLY GOING TORNADO (1980) are also highly recommended, but start with this one for an overall view.