Junk Box Jury

Taken from the LP ‘Hammond In Percussion’ (Columbia TWO 123) 1966

MEET HOWARD BLAKE:

He’s a composer (THEME FROM ‘H’ and SHARK are by him); an arranger (his version of YESTERDAY is surely the most original yet); a concert pianist (listen to his spectacular performance on the EXODUS theme); and probably the swingingest organist this country has produced (GRAVY WALTZ and DACE should convince you of that).

He also plays vibes, marimba, celeste and jangle-box. The word, is versatile. His mastery of the Hammond organ is astonishing. He makes it wail and he makes it sing.

And with nothing more than a rhythm group, a little discreet double-tracking, and a few sound effects he turns the JAMES BOND THEME into a rivetingly exciting demonstration of what stereo really means.

Howard is a stunningly talented musician, but everything he plays is first and foremost enjoyable—to move to, and to listen to. You will not often hear an LP as varied in mood, tempo and feeling as this one.

Howard Blake and his Combo | “James Bond Theme”

It happened like this: A young A&R Manager heard Howard playing Rhythm and Blues in London’s Ad Lib Club, and immediately signed him to make his record debut.

It’s easy to hear why. With so much to choose from, my own favourite is the jangle-box solo on GRAVY WALTZ. If you don’t know the word ‘funky’, this is what it means.

Howard is 27, and has composed symphonies, chamber music, pop songs and jingles. His Piano Rhapsody is frequently played by Semprini in broadcasts and concerts. And, like I said, he really does swing. (Stanley Myers)

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cost of record: £2
from: charity shop