John Greaves

The Profile

John Greaves is a Welsh bassist, composer and singer, a key figure of the Canterbury/avant-prog nexus and a former member of Henry Cow. He is widely noted for the collaborative album Kew. Rhone. with Peter Blegvad and Lisa Herman, alongside solo works spanning experimental rock and jazz-leaning projects.

Founding-era member of Henry Cow; collaborated extensively with Peter Blegvad, Lisa Herman, Carla Bley and Michael Mantler. Kew. Rhone. (1977) was composed in New York and recorded at Bley/Mantler’s Woodstock studio with Lisa Herman on lead vocals and Andrew Cyrille on drums. A Robert Wyatt-sung version of the title track appears on Greaves’s 1995 album Songs. He later worked with National Health and has remained active as a solo artist.

A positive, detail-rich review of Kew. Rhone., highlighting its refined production, intricate writing, and wordplay-heavy lyrics by Peter Blegvad. Credits include Lisa Herman’s lead vocals, Andrew Cyrille, and the influence of Carla Bley and Michael Mantler. The album bridges Henry Cow complexity with Slapp Happy elegance, leaning into impure jazz colors. Mentions a 1995 Robert Wyatt version of the title track on Greaves’s Songs.