The Necks

The Profile

The Necks are an Australian improvisational trio formed in 1987 by Chris Abrahams (piano), Lloyd Swanton (bass), and Tony Buck (drums). Known for hour-long, trance-like pieces that merge jazz, minimalism, and ambient textures, they’ve maintained a consistent lineup and a distinctive, immersive approach across studio albums and live performances.

Australian improvisational jazz trio formed in 1987 in Sydney: Chris Abrahams (piano), Tony Buck (drums), Lloyd Swanton (bass); renowned for long-form, minimalist ensemble pieces.

Australian trio The Necks draw praise for hour-long, minimalist-improv pieces that blend jazz, ambient and subtle electronics. Reviews highlight hypnotic interplay, Buck’s foundational drumming, and Abrahams/Swanton’s evolving textures, with Drive By, Aquatic, and Sex singled out. One dissenting review finds Chemist dull and derivative. Overall sentiment trends strongly positive toward their unified, trance-inducing approach.