In the high-profile, microscopically documented career of British jazz icon Tubby Hayes, 1965 appears the ‘year that never was’; no new Hayes’ LP appeared and for the first time in a decade the charismatic saxophonist no longer headed his own regular band. What was more, various critics had begun to openly wonder if his day had passed, dismissing Hayes’ powerful playing as ‘static’, ‘overlong’ and ‘blasé’. Combined with what was his most personally traumatic time to date, its trials ranging from physical collapse to escalating addictions, it appeared as if this once ubiquitous jazz force was fading from sight.
On live performances, however, it was a different story, Hayes galvanising his already formidable mastery of Hard Bop with a new found appetite for the work of John Coltrane as well as further sharpening his natural command of composition and arrangement. Fortunately, radio broadcasts documented these obsessions in full; BBC recordings from this year capturing both his informal quartet and his star-packed Commonwealth Big Band.
This release includes three PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED programmes in full, containing versions of classic Hayes’ themes ‘Change of Setting’ and ‘Don’t Fall Off The Bridge’ together with the first-ever UK performance of his big band showcase ‘100% Proof.’ Hayes’ then partner, US vocalist Joy Marshall, makes a cameo appearance here. An unmissable treat for all fans of vintage British modern jazz! Features an extensive booklet essay by Hayes’ biographer Simon Spillett. *low fidelity recording.