Decca has recently released an incredible new compilation featuring selections from some of the greatest and most sought-after British jazz recordings from the sixties and seventies, titled Journeys In Modern Jazz: Britain. This represents a time where the UK jazz scene was really finding it’s own sound with it’s own “home grown” British musicians and the support of labels like Decca, Deram, Argo, EMI Columbia/Lansdowne Series, Fontana, Mercury, Philips and others.

This well-crafted record was compiled by longtime British jazz collector Tony Higgins, whom is one of the two individuals that has selected tracks for BBE Record’s brilliant three-part J Jazz compilation series. The double-LP recording features fourteen adventurous hard-hitting post-bop gems from pioneering British jazz greats like Don Rendell, Ian Carr, John Surman, Ken Wheeler, Michael Garrick, Neil Ardley, Dick Morrissey, Harry Beckett and others.

This compilation also includes an insightful 20,000 word booklet, written by Higgins, discussing the story of post bop British jazz and the masterful albums that are highlighted on the record.

Outstanding from the first to last note, Journeys In Modern Jazz: Britain might arguably be the most complete release in documenting this highly influential and important era for British jazz music. Highly recommended!

Various — ‘Journeys In Modern Jazz: Britain’
(Decca)

1. Ken Wheeler & The John Dankworth Orchestra – “Don The Dreamer”
2. Don Rendell Quintet – “A Matter Of Time”
3. Collin Bates Trio – “Brew”
4. John Surman & John Warren – “With Terry’s Help”
   Side 2
5. Michael Garrick Sextet – “Second Coming”
6. Mike Westbrook Concert Band – “Waltz (For Joanna)”
7. Stan Tracey & His Big Band – “Matinee Days”
8. Harry Beckett – “Third Road”
   Side 3
9. Neil Ardley, Ian Carr & Don Rendell – “Greek Variations: VI Kriti” (edit)
10. The New Jazz Orchestra – “Angle”
11. Alan Skidmore Quintet – “Old San Juan”
    Side 4
12. Dick Morrissey Quartet – “Storm Warning”
13. Mike Taylor Quartet – “To Segovia”
14. Michael Gibbs – “Some Echoes, Some Shadows”

BUY RECORD

• Compilation
• Jazz