Early Works (The Bracknell Connection/Salisbury Suite)

Add to
Watch List

Not the earliest work of pianist Stan Tracey – but two wonderful albums from the 70s, both of which show his mighty talents in the space of a larger group! The Bracknell Connection is one of the greatest post-Landsdowne recordings by British pianist Stan Tracey – a killer large group session that's cut in the best tradition of his best 60s work! Unlike some of Tracey's other 70s sides, which can get a bit too free, this one still has a tight, sharp jazz focus – one that makes Tracey's off-beat playing sound far better than it does in a structure-less setting. The other players in the group are all quite strong too – and soloists include Harry Beckett on trumpet, Peter King on alto, and Art Themin on tenor and soprano. Titles include "Timespring", "Cuddly", and "Agitato Sympatico". Also features a previously unissued track – "Chiffik". Salisbury Suite is another great octet session from Tracey – one that's strongly graced by his tremendous work on piano – forceful, angular, and modern – yet without any of the excesses of some of his solo or trio work of the time! Tracey really seems to come into his own in a larger group recording – keeping his cool enough as a leader, and really setting the tone for the other players – pushing them into hip formation, but always getting them to swing as well. Players include Art Themen on tenor and soprano, Don Weller on tenor, Jeff Daly on alto, Harry Beckett on trumpet, and Malcolm Griffiths on trombone – and titles include "Peg Leg Bates", "Miff", and "Ballad For St Ed".  © 1996-2025, Dusty Groove, Inc.