Review

Soft Machine : Other Doors

Soft Machine is a legendary British jazz-rock band that was formed in the late 1960s. While the band has gone through many changes over the years, they've continued to produce innovative and exciting music to this day.

The current lineup of Soft Machine is riding high and features four outstanding musicians who are all veterans of the jazz and rock worlds. Relative new comer, Theo Travis on sax and flute who adds his ornateness. John Etheridge, who's been with the band since the 1970s, a virtuosic guitarist whose playing is both intricate and soulful. Roy Babbington, bassist with a long history in the jazz world, having played with luminaries like Stan Tracey and Ian Carr. however on this album he sadly bows out with an exquisite solo I might add - what a fantastic career he has had with the band. And finally, John Marshall a drummer whose career has seen him play with everyone from Nucleus to Jack Bruce.

Together, these musicians create a sound that's both timeless and contemporary. They're able to blend elements of jazz, rock, and even classical music into a cohesive and exciting whole.

Opener ‘Careless Eyes’ has a haunting flute / dudak like improv echoed by atmospheric guitar before it breaks into some downtempo funkiness and smouldering tenor sax and fret less bass head entwines together before guitarist, John Etheridge joins in gloriously covered in reverb, to give it that psychedelic edge. ‘Penny Hitch’ carries on in a similar vein with a jagged head that nods to The Police at their prog best. It’s open expansive sound is also the perfect vehicle for Travis to let rip and his darting flute on the collage free form feel of ‘Crooked Usage’ set up by drummer, John Marshall adds to the overall and joyful cacophony these guys are capable of. ‘Joy Of Toy’ kicks off with The Ronettes opening riff on ‘I met him on a Monday and my heart stood still Da doo ron-ron-ron, Da doo ron-ron ! It’s a playful number with echoes of South Africa. ‘Whisper Back’ sees some delightful solo guitar before the doleful 6/8 blessedness of ‘Now Is The Time’ sweeps majestically in replete with heart felt fret less bass reigning exultantly. There’s plenty to get your teeth into here as these guys are tone masters too. They push the boat out improv wise, on ‘Fell To Earth’ it’s a free for all harking back to their glory years and the chundering and ominously bluesy riff takes it home to glory.

The band really stretch out too,on closing track ‘Back In Season’ leaving no psychedelic mushroom unturned. The result is a lush widescreen and instrumental adventure bathed in spacious, sonic light. Whether you're a longtime fan of Soft Machine or you're just discovering them for the first time, you're sure to be impressed by the sheer musicianship and live ensemble feel on display.In short, Soft Machine is a band that's still going strong and are totally relevant,judge for yourself.
Words Emrys Baird