Soft Machine – Live at the Baked Potato (MoonJune Records, 2020)
Soft Machine, one of the pioneers of British jazz-rock fusion, returned in 2018 and toured extensively. This recording captured the sound of the band live in 2019. The performance was recorded at the Baked Potato club Los Angeles (USA).
As you would expect, this album contains plenty of improvisation. The group is at its best when it drops conventional jazz and ventures into progressive rock and cutting edge electric jazz fusion, especially when Theo Travis switches from saxophone to mesmerizing Fender Rhodes electric piano.
Live at the Baked Potato presents a mix of high energy pieces showcasing fantastic psychedelic and Canterbury-style guitar work, electric piano, creative drumming and bass. You’ll also find beautiful slow tempo cuts like “Kings and Queen” where Theo Davis plays exquisite flute and “Broken Hill,” where there is delightful guitar and piano interplay.
The current lineup of Soft Machine includes John Etheridge on electric guitar; Theo Travis on saxophone, flute, Fender Rhodes piano; Roy Babbington on bass; and John Marshall on drums.