London’s Trunk Records has recently reissued the extremely rare 1978 British jazz fusion self-titled album from Magician, which at the time of it’s release only sold a few copies (rumor has the number around 10).

This is certainly one of those “don’t judge a book by it’s cover” situations, with the artwork giving the impression this is either a 70s metal or prog-rock recording. This incredible six-track album is none of the above, featuring a blend of groove-oriented cosmic fusion jazz vibes, spiritual melodies, layered horns, funky percussion and electric keys, sounding at times like an early 70s Italian library record.

The album features a super cast of musicians, including drummer Barry Morgan and the legendary Barbara Thompson on saxophones, flute, and clarinet. The session also includes keyboardist Fiachra Trench, guitarists John Girvan and Ray Russell, bassists Les Hurdle and Mo Foster, trombonist Roger Williams, and trumpeters Leon Calvert and Stan Reynolds.

With original copies pretty much impossible to find, and the limited-edition reissue selling out in record shops quickly, this is definitely an album I would snatch up asap! Definitely one of the year’s best reissues of 2022.

Magician – ‘s/t’
(Originally released: 1978 / Hobo)
(Reissued: 2022 / Trunk Records)

1. House Of Purple Mist
2. Drowned Village
3. Playground
4. Bazaar
5. Musk
6. Morass

BUY RECORD

• Cosmic
• Jazz Funk
• Jazz Fusion