Atlantic Bridge – Atlantic Bridge (1970) 24-bit/96kHz Vinyl Rip

An early British fusion band, Atlantic Bridge put out a self-titled instrumental album in 1970. The skills of the players were impressive, and they didn’t compromise their jazz roots, with Jim Philip’s saxes and flute showing a decided John Coltrane influence. Chief arranger Mike McNaught’s electric keyboard provided the most rock-oriented flavour. Daryl Runswick also creates some interesting passages with bowed bass. Covers of “MacArthur Park” and the Beatles’ “Something” and “Dear Prudence” seemed emblematic of a desire to cross over to rock listeners, though it should be noted that it was far less common for a jazz-rock band to interpret such material in 1970 than it would be in the years to come. Richie Unterberger, Allmusic.

Track listing:

01. MacArthur Park
02. Dreams (Dreams/Pax/Nepenthe)
03. Rosecrans Boulevard


04. Something
05. Dear Prudence
06. Childhood Room (Exit Walt)


Personnel:

Mike McNaught: Piano, Electric Piano
Jim Philip: Flute, Soprano, Tenor
Daryl Runswick: Bass, Bass Guitar
Mike Travis: Drums, Percussion
Arranged by Mike McNaught, except McArthur Park
Arranged by Mike McNaught & Daryl Runswick
Produced by Barry Murray
Recorded at Pye Studios, London