New Jazz Orchestra/ Neil Ardley Group - BBC Sessions 1968-1970

As the sixties turned into the less-beloved seventies, a number of groundbreaking, boundary-stretching big bands could be heard around the UK. There was the Westbrook Concert Band, John Warren's Big Band, Mike Gibbs Orchestra, the mighty Brotherhood of Breath and, of course, the New Jazz Orchestra led by Neil Ardley. If performing and recording opportunities might have been limited, the support of BBC radio shows such as Jazz Club, Jazz in Britain and Jazz Workshop were crucial outlets for both musicians and fans. What more could one ask? Sleeve notes Duncan Heining.