I start the new month with a true Israeli classic:

HIGH WINDOWS ~ HIGH WINDOWS
HED ARZI 4947 (Barcode: 7293372494727) ~ ISRAEL ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 Released: 1989
Only album by the Israeli vocal trio, which included Arik Einstein, Shmulik Kraus and Josie Katz, and which is considered as the first original Israeli Pop album ever recorded. Strongly influenced by the Beatles and other (then) contemporary Pop and Rock groups, the High Windows recorded a superb set of songs in Hebrew (all written by Kraus), using vocal harmonies and instrumental arrangements, which were completely revolutionary at the time. Israeli music up to that point was based mainly on East-European melodies and folksy approach and this was the first attempt to create a local scene modeled after Western Pop. The musical "establishment" at the time received this music with harsh criticism (The Beatles were not allowed to play in Israel to avoid the "bad" influence on local youth) and some of the songs were banned by the censor from being played on the radio. But the public loved the songs and the album soon became one of the most popular Israeli albums of all times. It had a crucial influence on the local scene and soon after an entire new generation of local musicians would start to create original Israeli Pop and Rock, including Progressive Rock. It is interesting to notice that the instrumental work and arrangements on this album were done by a brilliant piano player Ziggy Skarbnik, a legendary figure of the early days of both Israeli Rock and Jazz, who unfortunately died of cancer at an incredibly young age. The drummer was no other than Zohar Levy, another legendary figure. Listening to this album 40 years after it was recorded can be quite revealing and the realization of how brilliant this stuff was and still is becomes inevitable. A must!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102238 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102238

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The Annual Spring Sale is over - all good things must come to an end. Big thanks to all participants! I left the price of the Sale items at US $ 5.00 to let you all catch up with it and to sell them out completely. As you'll notice they were reduced to about half and will probably be all sold out soon.

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Today we celebrate the Passover Holiday - the Jewish Holiday of Spring and Independence. This is when all Jewish families get together for the traditional Passover meal, which is accompanied by reading of the Passover "Hagadah" the story of Moses leading the Jews out of their slavery in Egypt. I wish all my Jewish Friends and Customers a Happy Holiday and of course since Easter is almost around the corner all the Non-Jewish Friends and Customer also please accept my worm greetings. May God give us all Health, Peace and Prosperity.

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Today I start to add the series of the newly remastered seven albums by Sly & The Family Stone albums. This special Limited Deluxe Edition is exquisitely packaged and is also extremely limited! Don't miss it!

SLY & THE FAMILY STONE ~ A WHOLE NEW THING (LIMITED DELUXE EDITION)
EPIC 90277 (Barcode: 827969027721) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2007
1st album by one of the most important and influential US bands from the late 1960s and early 1970s. Sly Stone and his Family were pioneers on all fronts, musical, social and political. They were the first fully integrated group with Black and White, Men and Women musicians playing side by side. They were the first group to develop Funk as a fully-fledged musical genre. They were one of the first Pop / Rock acts to use a brass section as an integral part of the group. Later on they would also spearhead the political protest (in which many rock musicians participated) against segregation and the Vietnam War. The group had an immense influence on the US music scene, far beyond the Rock circles and earned many admirers and supporters among such distinguished musical figures as Miles Davis. Their legendary Woodstock appearance was one of the highlights of the festival. In short, they were one of the cornerstones of the US musical scene. This debut album firmly belongs to the Flower Power movement of the San Francisco scene, mixing elements of soul, funk, psychedelic influences and jazz. The different ethnic backgrounds of the members created an amalgam of styles that was truly unique and groundbreaking. The music was eclectic and sophisticated way beyond what was happening on the music scene at the time, using jazzy brass arrangements and vocal harmonies in a way never previously attempted. This beautiful new edition includes splendid liner notes and ultra-rare bonus tracks. A beautiful trip down the memory lane!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102239 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102239

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Here is the next item in the series of the newly remastered classic seven albums by Sly & The Family Stone - Limited Deluxe Edition:

SLY & THE FAMILY STONE ~ LIFE (LIMITED DELUXE EDITION)
EPIC 83945 (Barcode: 828768394526) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2007
3rd album by this great band, released only a few month after its predecessor, but marking a remarkable development and perfection of their unique style. Although this album did not produce any hit singles, it is nevertheless an astonishing piece of music and a true classic. The band strengthens the rock / psychedelic elements considerably, with the (fuzz) guitar being much more up-front than on the two previous albums. Each and every song is perfect, although they are quite different from each other. The definition of Funk is basically all here, creating a new musical genre. Superb songwriting and perfect execution make this album an everlasting icon of the late 1960s ingenuity and inventiveness. This beautiful new edition includes splendid liner notes and ultra-rare bonus tracks. A classic!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102241 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102241

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To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the debut album by the great Polish band Quidam, their first 3 albums were reissued in a beautiful mini-sleeve Limited Edition. Here is the second album:

QUIDAM ~ SNY ANIOLÓW / ANGELS' DREAMS (LIMITED EDITION)
ROCK SERWIS 102 (Barcode: 5907729910229) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2006
2nd album by this superb Polish Prog band. The angelic voice of Emila Derkowska in the lead and the great instrumental work by all the players in the band create together one of the freshest and most uplifting performances in modern Prog. This album follows splendidly in the tracks set by the stunning debut, released two years earlier, and fills all the expectations. The album was released in two versions - one with Polish lyrics and the other with English lyrics. Although Derkowska feels comfortably with the English vocals, the Polish version is preferable in my opinion, as the singer is free to concentrate on her vocal performances rather than (at least subconsciously) on the foreign language. The music is a unique mixture of classic Prog elements with classical and folk influences. The flute is the second leading voice in the band and it provides a splendid companion to the singer's delicate voice. The album is full of gorgeous melodies, magic moments and atmospheric tension, which set the standard of Progressive Rock music another notch higher. This beautiful new edition includes both versions of the album in an exquisite mini-sleeve packaging.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102246 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102246

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To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the debut album by the great Polish band Quidam, their first 3 albums were reissued in a beautiful mini-sleeve Limited Edition. Here is the third album:

QUIDAM ~ BAJA PROG - LIVE IN MEXICO `99 (LIMITED EDITION)
ROCK SERWIS 103 (Barcode: 5907729910328) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2006
3rd album by Polish Prog band Quidam recorded live during the annual Baja Prog festival in Mexicali, Mexico. Quidam are not only the best Prog group in their country since the mid-1990s, but also one of the best bands worldwide. They play modern Prog at its best: vibrant, complex, improvised and deeply melodic. Fronted by the amazing female vocalist Emila Derkowska, who sings both in Polish and English, and including some amazing instrumentalists, they have little competition when it comes to creating memorable and moving melodies and stellar performances. Obviously the opportunity to perform live removes many of the constraints and limitations of the "serious" studio situation and the bands expands their material here to pay tribute to their many influences. Note the legendary guitar solo from the Genesis' "Firth Of Fifth", quotes from Camel's "Snow Goose" or their incredible version of Deep Purple's "Child In Time" - each and every one of these performances being truly breathtaking. Derkowska sticks to Polish vocals during the concert, which is for the best. The companion DVD presents most of the material from the audio CD and a few additional songs heard (and seen) here for the first time, as well as a short documentary about the band's stay in Mexico. This beautiful new edition includes both the CD and DVD in an exquisite mini-sleeve packaging.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102247 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102247

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It's high time to add some jazz releases this month, so here are two different projects led by the superb US drummer Steve Smith:

SMITH, STEVE ~ BUDDY'S BUDDIES
TONE CENTER 40062 (Barcode: 8712725400622) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999
Legendary drummer Buddy Rich is usually associated with soaring Big Bands, but he also made several recordings with small ensembles, using the members of his band to play in a much more intimate setting. This album is a tribute to these small ensemble recordings, initiated by ex-Buddy Rich alumni Steve Marcus and Andy Fusco (both sax players). They joined forces with two other alumni, who also played with Rich on his small group recordings: pianist Lee Musiker and the extraordinary bassist Anthony Jackson. To drive the quintet and fulfill the place of their legendary drummer / leader they invited one of the most respected and musical US drummers Steve Smith. Smith is not only a fantastic player, but also one of the most versatile musicians around. His illustrious career spans back to the 1970 when he played with the Rock group Journey during their hay days and with the French violin virtuoso Jean-Luc Ponty and his Fusion group. Later on he played in several jazz small groups, Big Bands and a myriad of Fusion ensembles (including Steps Ahead), always being one of the most solid and sought after drummers around. Since the early 1980s Smith also leads his own Fusion group Vital Information, recording several albums over the years. It's no wonder therefore that Smith is up to the challenge set up by this album, leading the quintet with grace and elegance. The music includes a selection of standards mostly associated with Buddy Rich ensembles. The level of musicianship is outstanding, with Smith and Jackson providing rock-solid rhythm foundation for the other musicians to solo. Although the music is well framed within the swing genre, it is fascinating and beautifully played. This album deserves to be considered as one of the best jazz recordings of the 1990s. Definitely a must for all people who cherish the memory of Buddy Rich and hard swinging well played jazz.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102248 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102248

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SMITH, STEVE ~ FLASHPOINT
MASCOT 7175 (Barcode: 8712725717522) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
Veteran Fusion drummer Steve Smith combines forces with three other extraordinary musicians to form one the best Fusion ensembles ever. Legendary saxophonist Dave Liebman needs no introduction and his exceptional work since his days with the Miles Davis group has always been a beacon of innovation and excellence in the jazz world. The same can be said about the legendary bassist Anthony Jackson, whose illustrious career includes playing with Chick Corea, Michel Petrucciani and countless other jazz stars. The fourth member of the band, Turkish keyboards player Aydin Esen, is the only relatively unknown musician in the group, but his performances and compositions prove beyond any shadow of a doubt that he belongs to the same class of musicianship with his three companions. The music is simply breathtaking and overwhelming from the very first moment this record starts playing to the very last note. The music (written mostly by Liebman and Esen) is rich in textures and incredibly intense. The performances are stellar, with one solo chasing another. The entire session just flows beautifully, simultaneously filling the listener with energy and stimulating his intellect. Definitely one of the strongest, cleverest and most fulfilling Fusion albums recorded in the 21st Century. Wholeheartedly recommended!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102249 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102249

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It's always great to see some of the heroes of the 1960s-1970s Golden Age back on the scene with new releases proving they are still alive and well. Legendary guitarist Leslie West is one of them and here is his new album:

WEST, LESLIE ~ GOT BLOOZE
PROVOGUE 7155 (Barcode: 8712725715528) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
Legendary guitarist Leslie West is best known as the leader of Mountain, America's answer to the UK power trio Cream. Mountain recorded a series of excellent albums in the late 1960s and early 1970s, which were loud and powerful (often being quoted as one of the forefathers of Heavy Rock), but also quite sophisticated. West's unique tone and approach to the guitar, heavily based in the blues tradition, stays to this very day as one of the icons of the formative years of electric guitar. A famous anecdote tells that if one places West in a room with another 99 guitar players, just one note played by him will be immediately recognizable. Since the mid-1970s West recorded sporadically, with none of the albums leaving any significant impact on the scene, but his 2000s output marks a revival of his powers. West returned to what he does best - playing the blues in his unique manner, which has but a few competitors. West formed an excellent group with two formidable blues / rock veterans: Tim Bogert (Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, Beck, Bogert & Appice) - one of rock's most respected bass players and Aynsley Dunbar (John Mayall, Frank Zappa) - one of blues-rock most respected drummers. Together they storm through a program, which includes many blues standards, but sounds fresh and vital like never before. West also pays tribute to his ex-partner Jack Bruce by including his superb composition "Politician" on this album. For blues-rock fans this is an absolute must!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102250 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102250

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Today's addition is a jazz classic I love, by my favorite piano player, which should have been here a long time ago:

EVANS, BILL ~ ALBUM (EXPANDED EDITION)
COLUMBIA 64963 (Barcode: 5099706496328) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1996
The history of jazz is crowned by a small pantheon of stellar figures, which are (more or less) unequivocally accepted as the most prominent contributors to the development of the genre. Miles Davis and John Coltrane are members of that exclusive club and so is Bill Evans, the most influential jazz pianist ever. Since Evans' biography is available from many sources, I won't go into it here, so here are just a few personal comments: Although Evens played in a variety of settings, he surely deserves the title of inventor of the piano trio, a format in which most of his exceptional work was done. Over the years Evans led a series of legendary trios with the most eloquent bass and drums players, primarily noticeable for the phenomenal and telepathic level of interplay between the trio members. His (fortunately) numerable trio recordings are not only a document of his exceptional sensibility and lyricism as a player and composer, but also cornerstones of musical collaboration. Starting from the first trio (1959) with Scott LaFaro and Paul Motian and up to the last moments of his life (1980) with Marc Johnson and Joe La Barbera, the trio recording have always been the safest bets on musical delight one might ever take when buying a jazz album. This particular album, recorded with legends Eddie Gomez on bass and Marty Morell on drums, is very important in Evans' history. It includes his first contributions on the electric piano (a custom-made version of the Fender Rhodes), which he will explore more extensively later in his career. It also includes exclusively his own compositions, as opposed to his treatments of jazz standards, which were earlier the bulk of his recording material. This was the first of the only two albums Evans recorded for Columbia - the other ("Living Time") still awaiting a proper reissue. I can't imagine anybody who loves jazz (or in fact anybody who loves music) ignoring this album, so if you still don't have it - now is your chance. Absolutely essential!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102251 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102251

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Every new release on the tiny French label Soleil Zeuhl is always a feast of new sounds and daring musicianship, so I'm glad to add today the latest of their releases:

PIENZA ETHNORKESTRA ~ INDIENES D'EUROPE
SOLEIL ZEUHL 14 ~ FRANCE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2007
Pienza Ethnorkestra are a French trio playing some of the most interesting music I have ever heard. The members of the band include ex-members of Magma and One Shot and they play drums, bass and the electric hurdy gurdy - the strangest instrument one might consider as a front for a band. Nevertheless they manage to create a fascinating sound, which although difficult to classify falls comfortably within the wide limits of RIO / avant-garde Rock. All three players are obvious virtuosi on their respective instruments, with the hurdy gurdy being of course the most unusual and innovative. The music is based on folk motifs: East European, Gypsy and Middle Eastern all serving as a basis for extensive instrumental improvisations. The hurdy gurdy sounds like a string trio played in unison, a truly amazing effect. Most of the album is up-tempo with the music being quite intense, which demands a lot of attention and careful listening. Absolutely amazing stuff and most warmly recommended to people with "balls" between their ears.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102252 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102252

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Absolutely massive re-stocking across labels, including all the Hammill and Hillage titles. Please check your waiting lists!

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It's a great pleasure to be finally able to add two classic Prog albums that belong to the canon of the genre:

GREENSLADE ~ GREENSLADE
WOUNDED BIRD 2698 (Barcode: 664140269828) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2006
1st album by the phenomenal Prog group created by keyboards wizard Dave Greenslade, following the demise of Colosseum Mk. I. Greenslade joined forces with original Colosseum bassist Tony Reeves, a remarkable player with strong jazz background, who played both the electric and acoustic bass with elegance and sensitivity. To complete the group they enlisted the great (and sadly overlooked and under appreciated) drummer Andrew (Andy) McCulloch, who played with Manfred Mann, King Crimson ("Lizard") and Arthur Brown and since the mid-1970s disappeared from the music scene almost completely. The fourth member of the group was the vocalist Dave Lawson (Episode Six, Stackridge), an excellent vocalist who handled the complex compositions with flying colors. Greenslade, a prolific composer, wrote most of the material for the group, with some marginal contributions by Reeves and Lawson (who handled the lyrics). He used a wide range of keyboards between acoustic piano, organ and synthesizers, creating complex and beautiful sound layers, amply supported by his fellow band members. The debut album is a classic showcase of Prog at its best: great melodies, superb instrumental work and a wide range of influences including jazz, blues, rock and classical music. A beautiful sleeve work by Roger Dean. An absolute must for any serious Prog lover.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102253 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102253

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GREENSLADE ~ BEDSIDE MANNERS ARE EXTRA
WOUNDED BIRD 6866 (Barcode: 664140686625) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2006
2nd album released just a few months following the eponymous debut. With a steady lineup and a prolific composer like Greenslade, the band just couldn't go wrong and this album is every bit as good as the stunning debut. It includes a set of great instrumental and vocal tracks, all performed perfectly and all being classic Prog of the highest caliber. The music is completely timeless and as enjoyable today as it was at the time of its release. The album has another great Roger Dean's sleeve. Absolute must for all Prog heads.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102254 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102254

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Absolutely massive re-stocking from Voiceprint and associated labels, including all the Snowy White titles. Please check your waiting lists!

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Here are more of the new Wounded Bird releases, this time by the early Fusion hero Jan Hammer:

GOODMAN, JERRY / HAMMER, JAN ~ LIKE CHILDREN
WOUNDED BIRD 430 (Barcode: 664140043022) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2006
Only album by this duo, formed following the demise of John McLaughlin's Mahavishnu Orchestra Mk. I in 1973. Goodman and Hammer were the founding members of MO and played on the seminal three first albums by the group. This album is quite different from the fiery pyrotechnics used in MO and concentrates on presenting a gentler and more personal side of both musicians. Hammer composed most of the music for this album (with Goodman contributing on three tracks), which varies a lot stylistically between Funk, Fusion and Progressive. Between the two of them they play a myriad of instruments, with Hammer handling all keyboards and percussion and Goodman playing electric and acoustic violins and guitars. Hammer shines on the moog synthesizer, his main solo instrument, and Goodman displays again his amazing violin technique, which resembles his work with Flock (before MO). The album lost none of its charm in time and is still a prime example of well-played and sophisticated Fusion music. Since Goodman's recording heritage is rather sparse, it's great to see this album back in circulation. Recommended!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102255 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102255

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HAMMER, JAN ~ OH, YEAH?
WOUNDED BIRD 437 (Barcode: 664140043725) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2006
2nd album by keyboards wizard Jan Hammer, best known from his stint with the original Mahavishnu Orchestra. Born in Czechoslovakia, Hammer left his native country after the Soviet invasion in 1968 (same as many other prominent Czech musicians) and emigrated to the US, where he attended the Berklee School of Music in Boston. He first played jazz (for Sarah Vaughan) but joined MO, as he was more interested in the Jazz-Rock Fusion, which exploded in the early 1970s. His memorable contributions to the MO sound are classics to this very day. After the demise of the original MO Hammer recorded an album with fellow ex-MO member Jerry Goodman ("Like Children" and a year later released his first solo album ("The First Seven Days") and formed the Jan Hammer Band with which he performed extensively. On this album Hammer continues the musical direction set by his debut, which is basically a funkier and rockier version of Fusion. The band includes another talented US violin player Steven Kindler and percussionist David Earle Johnson (with whom Hammer also recorded a duo album) and resembles at times the MO sound. The only disappointing thing is the (fortunately rare) usage of vocals, which although quite OK, contribute little to the otherwise solid album.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102256 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102256

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Here are the last two (for the while) Wounded Bird reissues, both of them jazz related:

PIKE, DAVE ~ JAZZ FOR THE JET SET
WOUNDED BIRD 1457 (Barcode: 664140145726) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2006
Vibraphonist Dave Pike has been active on the US jazz scene since the mid-1950s, playing in a variety of bands. In the early 1960s Pike joined the Herbie Mann band, where he stayed for several years, playing an amplified vibraphone (one of the first musicians to do so). After leaving Mann's band he recorded a few albums (this being one of them) and in 1968 he left for Europe, where he stayed for several years leading the Dave Pike Set, which was one of the most advanced and sophisticated early jazz-rock ensembles. With the Set he recorded a series of brilliant albums for the legendary German MPS label (sadly mostly not available on CD), which featured the absolutely top European players at the time, including guitarist Volker Kriegel and many more. In the mid-1970s Pike returned to the US, where he continued to perform and occasionally record. This album is quite unique in many ways: it was produced by Herbie Mann and features some of the best players on the scene, including Herbie Hancock (plying the organ - the only time that happened!) and trumpeter Clark Terry. The material includes several original tunes (by Hancock and Pike) and lovely arrangements of great (then contemporary) Pop songs, creating one of the nicest ever jazz-pop albums (typical of the mid-1960s), with that incredible sound that makes my heart melt each time I hear it. Perhaps my nostalgia slightly clouds my judgment, but this is a most pleasant album, full of joy and naivete, so rare these days. Superb!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102259 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102259

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DUKE, GEORGE ~ THE 1976 SOLO KEYBOARD ALBUM
WOUNDED BIRD 8208 (Barcode: 664140820821) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2004
Keyboards player George Duke has always been one of my favorite musicians, mainly due to his phenomenal achievements during the first decade of his career. His early piano trio recordings (mid 1960s), his work with Jean-Luc Ponty (late 1960s) and finally his stint with Frank Zappa (early to mid 1970s) are all examples of pure genius and incredible musical versatility. Unfortunately by the end of the 1970s Duke phased out gradually from his jazz and fusion oriented activities and moved into pop, mostly as a producer. His recordings sine then bear little resemblance to the glory of his early days. During the 1970s Duke recorded a series of revolutionary and groundbreaking albums for the legendary German MPS label (sadly mostly not available on CD), which showcased his exemplary jazz-rock / fusion wizardry. This album, his first completely solo recording, was the last of these MPS recordings, released under the title "The Dream". Duke re-mixed the album in 1980 and in 1982 it was released in the US on the Epic label under this new title. Unavailable for many years, here it is finally back in circulation. The music, all composed by Duke, is a set of beautifully crafted melodies, played by an array of keyboards, sounding like an entire ensemble. Absolutely brilliant and timeless piece of music!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102260 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102260

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As I need to reduce my stock dramatically, a Stock Clearing Sale was announced today. A substantial 15 % discount on ALL items will apply until the stock reaches the target level. This is a unique opportunity to get great music at a fantastic price.

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Here is the new album by the great Polish Prog group Quidam and another superb blues album by veteran Leslie West:

QUIDAM ~ .BEZ PÓLPRADU (.HALFPLUGGED)
ROCK SERWIS 066 (Barcode: 5907729906628) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
6th album by this great group, which survived the departure of their phenomenal female lead singer and lyricist Emila Derkowska (replaced by male vocalist Bartek Kossowicz), an event that would have destroyed most other groups. This album is quite unusual in many respects, as it wasn't really planned to happen at all. Quidam were invited to perform acoustic (i.e. unplugged - see the album's title) concert and although hesitant at first they sized this opportunity to rearrange some of their material and some Prog classic to create a new sound for the group. The result is truly outstanding. The acoustic Quidam sounds every bit as fantastic as their electric alter ego. The new singer does a superb job even when singing older material, which Derkowska performed (compare the version of "Sanctuary" with the original performances on their 2nd and 3rd albums). As usual, they include in their music tributes to the Classic Rock and Prog icons, this time performing (or incorporating passages into their own work) songs by Beatles, Pink Floyd, Moody Blues and Deep Purple. It certainly looks like Quidam can do nothing wrong. With 6 first-rate albums and a consistent level of excellence they are one of the leading contemporary Prog groups and their future looks brighter than ever. Brilliant music!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102261 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102261

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WEST, LESLIE ~ BLUE ME
PROVOGUE 7191 (Barcode: 8712725719120) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
2nd recent album by legendary guitarist Leslie West, dedicated to the exploration of his blues roots. Similar to its predecessor, the album includes a mixture of blues and rock classics brilliantly performed by West and his cohorts, again including drummer Aynsley Dunbar (see John Mayall, Frank Zappa). West lost none of his magic touch, which made Mountain one of the most distinctive and pioneering groups of the late 1960s. There are no great discoveries here, no groundbreaking pyrotechnics, just perfect blues-rock performances that sound right time after time. If you love Mountain, you'll love this. If you love the blues, you'll love this too. Just listen to West's version of Gershwin's "Summertime" and bliss will take over. So what else can one ask for?

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The Stock Clearing Sale continues! A substantial 15 % discount on ALL items will apply until the stock reaches the target level. This is a unique opportunity to get great music at a fantastic price. BIG thanks to all the people of good will who already ordered - thank you for your support.

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As we all know, some of the most fascinating music is happening in Japan, so today's new additions bring us a sample of the best new Japanese Prog / Fusion, both released on the French Musea label:

SIDE STEPS ~ STEPS ON EDGE
MUSEA 4511 (Barcode: 3426300045119) ~ JAPAN ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2003
1st album by Japanese Prog / Fusion quartet Side Steps, which was one of the most promising and interesting debut Fusion albums of the 1990s. The band features the classic guitar / keyboards / bass / drums lineup and plays amazing instrumental music, usually at neck-breaking speed. These young musicians seem to have mastered their instruments from the cradle, otherwise it's quite impossible to explain the virtuosity displayed here. The compositions are equally strong, which makes this album a particularly enjoyable experience. Stylistically the band borrows some of their elements from Uzeb, Allan Holdsworth and many other (mostly European) Fusion masters, but they definitely have enough originality to be considered masters on their own. If you like fiery Fusion like Mahavishnu Orchestra and beyond, you will enjoy this album immensely. Highly recommended!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102263 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102263

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ARS NOVA ~ BIOGENESIS PROJECT
MUSEA 4532 (Barcode: 3426300045324) ~ JAPAN ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2002 - 2003 Released: 2003
4th album by Japanese Prog trio Ars Nova, which plays a modern version of music first created by groups like Nice, Trace or Refugee. So far nothing extraordinary, but considering the fact that all three players are female changes the picture a bit. Since I'm a big admirer of female musicians, who are not intimidated by the male-dominated world of Prog (in particular) and Music (in general). Of course the fact that they are female isn't enough to make Ars Nova the superb group it is - but their talents as composers and instrumentalists. The band's albums are mostly extensive and complex concept works, based on literary or mythical themes. This one is no exception with a story line based on a Science Fiction futuristic idea. On this one the band gets a huge cast of supporting / guest artist (many of them Prog legends), who are members of groups like Balletto Di Bronzo, PFM, Gerard, Ayeron and others. The music is bombastic and dramatic, but all in good taste, making it an ideal meal for Symphonic Prog lovers. Definitely worth checking out.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102264 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102264

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Although I promised no re-stocking, some orders were still on their way, so today a massive Cuneiform and South American (Brazil, Chile) shipments arrived. Check out your waiting lists and with the Sale going on you can get the stuff you have been waiting for at a discount price.

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The Stock Clearing Sale continues! A substantial 15 % discount on ALL items will apply until the stock reaches the target level. This is a unique opportunity to get great music at a fantastic price. BIG thanks to all the people of good will who already ordered - thank you for your support.

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Have Fun!

As we celebrate today Israel's 59th Independence Day, it's only appropriate I'd add an Israeli album today, this time something quite unique:

GOLDBERG, HAGIT ~ MUSICAL & JAZZ
PRIVATE EDITION ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
Although the Israeli Jazz scene developed rapidly in the last two decades, with a constant stream of new talent appearing at an ever-increasing paste, one area remains sadly almost completely uncovered - the jazz vocals. Since the early days of Jazz in Israel) going back 40 years or so) only a handful of female jazz singers (and no male singers at all) made any significant impact: Rimona Francis, Edna Goren, Iris Portugaly and Hagit Goldberg. Hagit has been around for quite a while. She started her singing career with the Israeli Airforce Big Band (which was at a certain period the best Israeli Big Band) and later on she left for the US to study at the Berklee College of Music. She stayed in the US (NY) for several years, performing in Musicals and with her jazz ensemble. Upon returning to Israel few years ago she started to perform on a regular basis and also to teach singing at the Rimon School and the Jerusalem Academy of Music. Over the years she gained a considerable performing experience and polished her act, but sadly never recorded a proper album. Therefore it is a joy to have her first solo album out finally. On the album she's accompanied by a most sympathetic quintet, consisting of some of the best Israeli jazz players, led by bassist Arie Volinez, who also arranged the music. The repertoire includes a carefully selected set of songs, all of which originate from Broadway musicals. Hagit performs the songs with panache and wonderful taste and her beautiful, sexy voice fills the space with presence and tension. Her interaction with the band is absolutely fantastic, with short but excellent instrumental solos fitted just in the right spots. Listening to the album is an uplifting musical experience, highly recommended to all vocal jazz lovers. It was worth the long wait and one can only hope that the next one will come really soon.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102265 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102265

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The Stock Clearing Sale continues! A substantial 15 % discount on ALL items will apply until the stock reaches the target level. This is a unique opportunity to get great music at a fantastic price. BIG thanks to all the people of good will who already ordered - thank you for your support.

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Have Fun!

Today's addition is one more link in the history chain of the group Gong, which has so many faithful followers in our ranks:

MOERLEN, PIERRE / GONG ~ FULL CIRCLE - LIVE 1988
MUSEA 4386 (Barcode: 3426300043863) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2001
Drummer Pierre Moerlen kept the name (and spirit) of Gong alive for many years, leading a permanently changing lineup of mostly Fusion oriented musicians. Starting in the mid-1970s, Gong under his leadership kept the original name and later (in the 1980s) the name of the band changed to Pierre Moerlen's Gong, to avoid confusion with other parallel Gong-related projects led by other ex-Gong members. This version of the band played almost exclusively instrumental Jazz / Rock Fusion, which had almost nothing to do with the psychedelic direction of the original band. The various European musicians, who passed through the band's ranks, were all excellent players and Moerlen's compositions were ideal vehicles for lengthy improvisations. This particular version of the band emphasized the vibes as the leading instruments with two vibraphonists in the lead. The sound of the live recording (originally a cassette recording) is surprisingly clear and the music spirited and very exciting. Lost for many years, it surfaced again many years after the original concert, for all of us to admire and cherish. Most enjoyable Fusion experience.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102266 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102266

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The Stock Clearing Sale continues! A substantial 15 % discount on ALL items will apply until the stock reaches the target level. This is a unique opportunity to get great music at a fantastic price. BIG thanks to all the people of good will who already ordered - thank you for your support.

=====================================

Have Fun!

Today's addition is the new brilliant album by the reunited legendary French group Zao:

ZAO ~ IN TOKYO
MUSEA 4699 (Barcode: 3426300046994) ~ FRANCE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2007
The legendary French band Zao, formed in 1973 by two ex-Magma members François "Faton" Cahen and Yochk'o Seffer was probably the best and most interesting musical phenomenon on the scene at the time. The band reformed for a short period of time in 1994 to record one album ("Akhenaton") and then again a decade later for a Japanese tour, where this album was recorded live. To make things even more interesting, the Japanese violinist and member of KBB Akihisa Tsuboy joined the group to complete the sextet (the original group included the legendary French violinist Didier Lockwood). The music is everything one would expect from Zao - breathtakingly beautiful avant-garde with strong jazz backbone. The new vocalist fills the difficult role with flying colors and all the musicians perform superbly. The material is a great mixture of older material (newly arranged) and new pieces, all composed by Cahen and Seffer. The lengthy pieces allow for extensive solos by all musicians and the album has a wonderful natural flow to it. In short, people who love improvised modern adventurous music will love this immensely. Essential!

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102267 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102267

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The Stock Clearing Sale continues! A substantial 15 % discount on ALL items will apply until the stock reaches the target level. This is a unique opportunity to get great music at a fantastic price. BIG thanks to all the people of good will who already ordered - thank you for your support.

=====================================

Have Fun!

Today's addition is the sensational live album by Refugee - one of the most sought after items by all Progheads:

REFUGEE ~ LIVE IN CONCERT - NEWCASTLE CITY HALL 1974
VOICEPRINT 421 (Barcode: 604388327225) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2007
Considering the fact that the legendary band Refugee, formed in 1973 by two ex-Nice members Lee Jackson and Brian Davison with the Swiss keyboards wizard Patrick Moraz, recorded only one studio album and disbanded after less than a year with Moraz leaving to join Yes, every piece of their recorded legacy is an absolute revelation. Add to this the surprisingly high quality of the recording and you have an amazing piece of Prog history on your hands. The concert includes most of the material from the studio album, but the live versions are extensively expanded to include longer solos and variations. All three musicians perform beautifully with Moraz expressing his virtuosity to the limit (and beyond). A couple of non-album tracks are also present, these of course never previously heard. It is a great pity that these recordings were to be the last recorded documents of Jackson and Davison for over 30 years (until the Nice reunion). The word of Prog would have been even richer if they continued their careers. Moraz was of course to be a central figure on the Prog scene for many years and recorded extensively. This is an absolute essential piece of Prog history and I know very few Prog fans that would miss this item in their collection.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102268 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102268

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The Stock Clearing Sale continues! A substantial 15 % discount on ALL items will apply until the stock reaches the target level. This is a unique opportunity to get great music at a fantastic price. BIG thanks to all the people of good will who already ordered - thank you for your support.

=====================================

Have Fun!

Today's addition is the first item in a series of newly remastered and expanded Jon Anderson reissues:

ANDERSON, JON ~ ANIMATION (EXPANDED EDITION)
OPIO 01 (Barcode: 604388679423) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2006
3rd album by the legendary Yes founding member and singer Jon Anderson. Anderson recorded over the years extensively as solo artists in parallel to his work with Yes, accumulating an impressive musical legacy. This album is considered to be his strongest and most consistent release. Recorded by a stellar cast of over 30 musicians, including Clem Clempson (Colosseum), Simon Phillips, David Sancious, Jack Bruce and many others, with brass and string sections and arrangements, this is one impressive piece of music. As usual in Anderson's case this is a concept album, based on a story written by him. The convoluted lyrics are as unclear and mystical as ever, to the delight of his fans and a source of mockery by his critics. Whatever one might think about Anderson's literary talents, the music - composed entirely by him - is excellent, with strong fusion (and even some jazz) undertones, played brilliantly all the way. The new expanded edition adds bonus material recorded at the same session, including the almost 12 minutes long epic track called "The Spell". An absolute must to all Yes fans and a very strong Prog album overall. Recommended.

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The Jazzis Web Shop Stock Clearing Sale will end on midnight (PST) Monday, April 30, 2007. That means that you all have less than 3 days to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to get some great music for a great price and at the same time help me to get back on my feet financially and continue the operation of my site.

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Have Fun!

Today's addition is the newly reissued gem of early UK avant-garde jazz, a rare beauty of an album:

RILEY, HOWARD ~ DISCUSSIONS
JAZZPRINT 137 (Barcode: 604388682720) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2007
This debut recording by the legendary UK pianist Howard Riley was initially released 40 years ago on a tiny label (Opportunity, owned by producer Chris Wellard) and has been unavailable for ages, making it a super-rare collector's item. Riley has been spearheading the UK free jazz scene since the mid-1960, recording regularly over the years and serving as a beacon of musical enlightenment and vision. His exceptional talents as a pianist and composer are truly unrivaled, with the possible exception of his peer Keith Tippett. On this album Riley is accompanied by the brilliant bassist Barry Guy (Spontaneous Music Ensemble / SME), another prominent figure on the UK free jazz scene, who recorded with Riley's trio on more than one occasion. The person behind the drums is probably the greatest surprise to the visitors of this site, as it is no other than Jon Hiseman - future leader of Colosseum, Tempest and United Jazz And Rock Ensemble (Hiseman's early jazz career is much lesser know). The trio performs a set consisting of several Riley's original compositions and a few standards - these well disguised as appropriate for a free jazz setting. Some clearly melodic elements are still present on these tracks, as the adventurous full-blown avant-garde was yet to come, but this is a classic of the genre in every sense. The interplay between the three master musicians is phenomenal and considering their tender age (at the time of this recording) this is a monster achievement. Absolutely essential for all free jazz lovers, especially for connoisseurs of the UK branch of the genre.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102270 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102270

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The Jazzis Web Shop Stock Clearing Sale will end on midnight (PST) Monday, April 30, 2007. That means that you all have less than 2 days to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to get some great music for a great price and at the same time help me to get back on my feet financially and continue the operation of my site.

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Have Fun!

Today's addition - the last for this month - is another superb album by UK avant-garde jazz pianist Howard Riley:

RILEY, HOWARD ~ DUALITY
JAZZPRINT 113 (Barcode: 604388474424) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2002
This solo piano recording by the legendary UK pianist Howard Riley is one of the cornerstones of his illustrious career, as it crystallizes his approach to improvised music. The duality (as referred to in the album's title) applies to two quite different avenues the artist travels when he performs his music. The first (as demonstrated by the first track on this album, which is over 20 minutes long) symbolizes the process of spontaneous composition / improvisation, based on some basic preconceived musical ideas, which get developed in the process of free-form improvisation. This type of music making requires a high degree of control of the instrument (something that Riley possesses without a doubt) and an incredible flow of musical ideas transferred instantaneously to the artist's hands and from there to the piano. The other (as demonstrated by the rest of the tracks on this album) symbolizes more the composer rather than the virtuoso performer, with much shorter pieces, also brilliantly performed, each devoted to a different harmonic / rhythmic idea. In spite of this duality, the album flows beautifully from one piece of music to another, casting a musical spell of rare quality over the attentive listener. As with all demanding music, the more difficult it is the more pleasurable it becomes once the listener submits himself to its charms. Absolutely essential for all free jazz lovers, especially for connoisseurs of the UK branch of the genre.

https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102271 - https://www.jazzis.com/shop/default.asp?item=102271

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The Jazzis Web Shop Stock Clearing Sale will end today - midnight (PST) Monday, April 30, 2007. That means that you all have just a few hours left to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to get some great music for a great price and at the same time help me to get back on my feet financially and continue the operation of my site.

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Have Fun!