THE SOUND OF SURPRISE

I'm afraid this album won't convert many proggers to BB's Earthworks, as most of its main themes are unmemorable (a common problem in modern jazz) and, try as I might, I find it hard to love Patrick Clahar's sax playing. I mean, the guy is GOOD, as dozens of saxophonists are, but he doesn't move me or carry me away. It doesn't surprise me that we haven't heard from him since he left Earthworks.

Pianist Steve Hamilton, on the other hand, provides at least one exquisite little solo on each track. Hamilton's only problem may be that he's somewhat too unassertive... One longs for jazz pianists who make the earth move.

It's worth pointing out the same band actually sound far, far more exciting on FOOTLOOSE AND FANCY FREE, the superb double live CD that was released soon after this album. In a live situation THE SOUND OF SURPRISE's best tracks get reworked with far greater energy than here.

The fact remains that, if you're a true Bruford fan, this album will still be worth buying for the master's contributions alone. As the years rolled by, Bill's playing kept getting better and better... If you're really enamoured of his style (be it with Yes, King Crimson or in whatever context) you'll definitely want to give this album a spin from time to time, just to remind yourself of the superb things Bill used to do. So let me recommend this album to all Bruford freaks, albeit with reservations.

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