Jade Warrior – Wind Borne – The Island Albums 1974-1978 (Esoteric Records/Cherry Red Records, 2023)
“Wind Borne – The Island Albums 1974-1978” offers listeners the chance to rediscover the pioneering fusion of ambient, progressive rock and Japanese traditional music of Jade Warrior. The boxed set comprises remastered versions of four classic albums originally released by Island Records: “Floating World,” “Waves,” “Kites,” and “Way Of The Sun.”
Following the split of Jade Warrior’s original line-up in 1973, creative flutist Jon Field and innovative guitarist Tony Duhig continued their journey under the band’s name, composing and recording a series of outstanding albums for Island Records. Through the recommendation of Steve Winwood, the band caught the attention of Island founder Chris Blackwell, and “Floating World” was released in 1974. With a distinct instrumental style, Jade Warrior had evolved into an entity that mixed ethnic Japanese influences and ambient progressive rock, earning critical acclaim.
“Floating World” is a concept album. Its overarching theme revolves around the traditional Japanese philosophy of Ukiyo, where one finds solace in accepting life’s transience and relishing the present moment. “Floating World” includes an impeccable blend of Japanese and Balinese traditional music, rock, jazz, and western classical music. The album’s remarkable musicianship features an intricate interplay between the exquisite flute work and the guitars, a signature style that sets Jade Warrior’s recordings apart from the crowd.
Lineup: Tony Duhig on guitars, percussion; Jon Field on flutes, percussion; David Duhig on lead guitar on “Monkey Chant”; Graham Deakin on drums on “Red Lotus”; and Martha Mdenge on vocals on “Quba.”, featuring Steve Winwood on piano and Moog synthesizer.
The band took their unique style to new heights with “Waves” in 1975. On “Waves,” Jade Warrior once again ventured into the realm of world music, progressive rock, ambient, and jazz with their captivating single composition “Waves.” This piece had to be separated into two parts to fit the A and B sides of the vinyl record in pre-CD days, and showcases the band’s exceptional musicianship and creative genius.
As one listens to “Waves,” they are taken on a journey through a wide range of musical styles and influences. The band’s experimentation with world music is evident through their use of unconventional instruments and rhythms, transporting the listener to far-off lands. Meanwhile, their progressive rock and jazz influences are infused throughout the composition, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving soundscape.
The lineup included Tony Duhig on guitars, percussion, keyboards; Jon Field on flutes, guitar, percussion; Dave Duhig on lead guitar; Graham Morgan on drums; Suzi on vocals; Maggie Thomas on alto recorder; and acclaimed multi-instrumentalist Steve Winwood on Moog synthesizer, and piano.
In 1976, Jade Warrior released “Kites,” which presented even more ambitious musicality with a host of guest musicians such as Fred Frith of Henry Cow and Clodagh Simmons of Mellow Candle. The “Kites” auditory experience remains imbued with an enchanting East Asian flair, fused with rock, pre-ambient and jazz influences, while exploring more intricate and experimental sounds. The wonderful cocktail of sounds is elevated even further with the inclusion of several guest musicians, lending their unique instrumental prowess to the already multifaceted album.
Lineup: Tony Duhig on guitars, percussion, keyboards; Jon Field on flutes, guitar, percussion; Roger Bryson on piano; Fred Frith on violin; Pete Gibson on brass, horn; Coleridge Goode on bass; Debbie Hall on violin; Jeff Westley on electric piano; Graham Morgan on drums; Joe O’Donnell on violin; Clodagh Simonds on vocals; Gowan Turnbull on saxophone; Geoff Westley on piano; Willie on drums, percussion; and Elmo on Mexican foot drums.
Jade Warrior’s final album for Island Records, “Way Of The Sun,” was a magnum opus of sorts, drawing inspiration from the mythology of the Incas. This highly evocative work displayed Field and Duhig’s unparalleled creative prowess, and is considered by many to be their finest album to date. The band embarked on a journey to the depths of Hispanic America, meticulously incorporating various cultural and musical elements into their compositions. The result is an album that masterfully fuses Caribbean rhythms, Andean melodies, and Spanish influences, creating an immersive musical experience that transports the listener to distant lands.
The album’s cinematic sections are nothing short of breathtaking. The band’s ability to conjure vivid imagery through their music is on full display, with every track feeling like a sonic adventure. The layered flute work is particularly noteworthy, with the instrument soaring through the mix, enchanting the listener with its mesmerizing melodies. But the album isn’t just about tranquil soundscapes; it also includes fiery Latin rock.
Lineup: Tony Duhig on guitars and keyboards; Jon Field on flutes; Dick Cuthell on flügelhorn; Gowan Turnbull on saxophone; Skalia Kanga on harp; Kuma Harada on bass; Bill Smith on bass; John Denith on drums; Allan Price on congas; Godfrey McLean on drums; and Graham Morgan on drums.
“Wind Borne – The Island Albums 1974-1978” has been remastered from the original master tapes, ensuring that the music sounds as fresh and innovative as it did upon its original release. The album is a testament to the exceptional talent of one of the most innovative progressive rock acts of the era. To top it off, the set comes complete with an illustrated booklet featuring an informative essay, providing fans with insight into the making of these iconic albums.