Centipede

The Profile

Centipede was a British 50-piece ensemble assembled by pianist Keith Tippett to perform his four-part composition Septober Energy (1971), produced by Robert Fripp, drawing players from London jazz and the Canterbury scene.

Formed by Keith Tippett in the UK, Centipede gathered over fifty musicians from British jazz and progressive circles (including Canterbury-scene affiliates). Their principal work is the four-part, 84-minute Septober Energy (1971), produced by Robert Fripp, blending jazz, rock, improvisation, and orchestral writing.

A sprawling 50‑piece British ensemble assembled by Keith Tippett, Centipede delivers the four-part, 84‑minute Septober Energy (1971), produced by Robert Fripp. The review praises its dualities—jazz vs. rock, improvisation vs. rigor—and its historic scope. Personnel bridge London jazz and the Canterbury scene, with echoes of King Crimson and Soft Machine. Demanding listening, but celebrated as a landmark.