Steve Reid "Nova", Mustevic, 1976

Steve Reid lives life in Jazz through generations, crossing path with many artists such as Miles Davis, Sun Ra, to James Brown, Fela Kuti and Chaka Khan. His presence has always remained in underground scene, where struggling Black music, particularly left-field, avant-garde Jazz did not find home in the US in the 70s.

This is Steve Reid "Nova", released by Mustevic in 1976. A classic record. Underground experimental, avand-garde Jazz hit. A true original sound. But that is because now people know and understand the musical spirit and dimensions this record produces, with reissues, new materials, supports from DJs such as Gilles Peterson and Benji B. It is good to see such living legend share us with his innovative and spiritual musical mastery today.

On personal story. I picked up this record without knowing anything about it. Same routine as usual, just looking at the cover, and decided to give it a try. At my home, I placed the record on the player, and groovy and wailing horn ensemble came out of speakers and just continued repeating this theme. The very odd record, but the groove stuck in my mind. Soon, I heard the track on Gilles Peterson's Brownswood Basement, and shortly after he began taking that theme part for the opening of his radio show. And then, thanks to the power of Gilles, everyone know about the record. Soul Jazz decided to reissue "Nova", under their Universal Sounds label. Gilles invited him over to the show. And now, once a forgotten figure in Jazz world, Steve Reid is coming back, recording and releasing new materials, and collaborating with young artists such as Kieran Hebden aka Four Tet.

Personnel:
Steve Reid - Drums
Luis Angel Falcon - Acoustic Bass
Richard Williams - Fender Bass
Les Walker - Piano, Organ
Joe Rigby - Alto / Tenor / Soprano Sax
Ahmed Abdullah - Trumpet

Tracklist:

Side A:
1. Nova
2. Lions of Judah
3. Free Spirit Unknown

Side B:
4. Long Time Black
5. Sixth House

Steve Reid Official Site