Bill Bruford
Master Strokes

THE REVIEW

I would like to make some clarifications before starting this review. I will try, as much as possible, to ensure that the writing remains pleasant and maybe even elicits a smile. A bit of humor every now and then never hurts in this serious and gray life. I will try not to focus too much on musical classification; in my opinion, an album is either good or not, and perhaps professional reviewers will categorize the genre. And now, drum roll (it's quite apt to say) the review begins!

B. Bruford, over the years, has always remained my favorite drummer. His enthusiasm always pours into his tracks, making them original and lively. With a fundamentally Jazz style, his approach is irregular and tense, with various tempo changes. Always balanced and never showy. His style is practically unique in the music scene. After the (apparent) end of K. Crimson in '74, Bruford continued his career without ever going commercial. As for the tracks on this album, which is an excellent collection ranging from '78 to '85, a track-by-track review would be long-winded and not indicative of Bruford's abilities. You have to listen to it! 15 tracks for a total of 63.23m. I must remember that the always great J. Berlin plays here, and a surprising A. Holdsworth, with all his unforgettable solos and guitar phrases. Also, P. Moraz appears in two experimental Jazz tracks, and finally on keyboards, D. Stewart. An interesting tidbit, in the only sung track "Gothic 17", Berlin sings too! It's interesting to hear him. Definitely worth mentioning is the piano-bass duet (D. Stewart-J. Berlin) discreetly and perfectly executed.

Nevertheless, my favorite track is "Travels With Myself - And Someone Else", which at least initially starts off slow, only to accelerate at the end. Class is permanent! And this is also demonstrated by the fact that he has played in some of the greatest musical groups in history: King Crimson, Yes, Genesis... Also, "Fainting In Coils" with a marvelous narrated intro from "Alice's Adventures In Wonderland" by Charles Lutwidge Dodgson alias Lewis Carroll. Holdsworth and Stewart are incredible. Anyway, all the tracks are extremely valid. Often collections don’t adequately represent the value of musicians, but not in this case. I never get tired of listening to this album.

Before closing the review, I’ll add that the cover art best expresses the artist's passion and love for playing the drums.