SOFT MACHINE Schallplatten & CDs

Review: The Canterbury scene alumni Soft Machine and their live album Hovikodden 1971 in Norway marks a significant turning point in the band's history, as it captures their transition into a fully instrumental ensemble. This beautifully packaged four record box set showcases the band's exceptional musicality and experimentation, blending elements of psychedelic rock, progressive rock, jazz rock, and proto-rock to create a unique and captivating sound. Despite their limited commercial success, Soft Machine's influence on rock music cannot be understated. Their innovative approach to instrumentation and composition has inspired countless subsequent artists and continues to resonate with fans of experimental and progressive rock. Hovikodden 1971 serves as a great example to the band's enduring legacy and their pivotal role in shaping the evolution of rock music and Cuneiform did a great job in taking the archives from the original reels and respectfully remixing any parts that needed a slight polish.

Review: This new quadruple CD release captures the legendary 'classic quartet' of The Soft Machine band during their final European tour on February 27th and 28th, 1971. While previously released sets from the latter date exist, this marks the first complete release of both nights, with half of it being entirely unreleased material. The performances, held in a relatively intimate venue, offer a captivating stereo experience. Soft Machine's concerts at the Henie-Onstad Art Center in Norway were unique and set against an art exhibition backdrop as well as being accompanied by Mark Boyle's films. Listening back now and it's easy to hear the band's dynamic evolution across consecutive nights in the unique museum setting.