As the ‘60s progressed, cultural and political revolutions occurred both in the US and in Europe. Jazz was both a victim and a saviour, with radical developments in the music occurring in both continents. In the US, artists took control of their own musical destiny as small labels broke away from the mainstream, expressing new and creative visions of freedom and peace against a backdrop of civil unrest, repression and war. Be sure to check the first volume of this series, Spiritual Jazz (JMANCD.020). In ‘60s Europe the jazz community forged ahead with a different revolution; that of breaking away from mere emulation of their American counterparts. A distinctive, European jazz sound began to develop that combined traditional music from across Europe and around the world with the creative freedom so abundant in American jazz. Over time the most forward-thinking creative talents of the post-Coltrane European jazz generation crafted and nurtured sophisticated and multi-faceted styles of jazz that were as radical as they were beautiful, giving modern jazz a characteristically European flavour.

THE MUSIC
A heady mix indeed; stirring jazz overtures with orchestra and choir, festival performances recorded live from the grassy heartlands of central Europe, modal montages inspired by pilgrimages to Asia and Africa, experiments in rhythm and sound where modern jazz meets traditional Balkan and Flamenco folk music. This is Spiritual Jazz – European style.

We dedicate this album to Michael Garrick, who died shortly before its release. His contribution to UK jazz was profound, and we’re proud to include one of his previously-unreleased tracks.

·All tracks fully licensed and digitally restored from the original master tapes

·Comprehensive liner notes with individual notes on each track with original stories direct from the musicians and artists

·16 page colour CD booklet with in-depth liner notes, album cover scans and previously unpublished photographs

·Most tracks never before reissued – previously only available on rare LP’s that change hands for hundreds of dollars.

·180g double vinyl pressing with thick, glossy double gatefold sleeve and colour inserts

·RARE and FINE music heard only on Jazzman – all because WE DIG DEEPER!