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Richard Sinclair — Live Tracks
(Sinclair Songs RSS CD 003, 2002, CD)

by Jeff Melton, Published 2003-02-01

Live Tracks Cover art

The live travels of Richard Sinclair reveal that the acclaimed bassist and vocalist has no lack of ability. This set, which is a collection of live performances both solo and with band, covers a wide range from 1993-1996. Richard has been keen on playing stripped down versions of “In the Land of Grey and Pink” from his well-established era with the early Caravan. Those songs favor minimal arrangements with hand drums and Richard’s acoustic guitar playing representing the song in a charming format. Richard pulled together an RSVP five-piece line-up including Pip Pyle and Patrice Meyer (now playing in Pip’s new band) for the four best tracks on the disc. The lush version of “What in the World” gives further support that the song could easily have fit into a Dave Stewart led incarnation of National Health. Tony Coe’s lead clarinet gives the jazz improvisational base a unique soloing voice on “Meet the Flintstones” that leads into “Over from Dover.” On the last track, David Rees Williams’s fine acoustic piano acts as a strong catalyst against Pip’s high hat driven tempo and Richard’s fine solo bass section. A unique bonus comes in the form “Uncle’s Farm,” an outtake from an aborted Caravan band project that never quite gelled. In actuality, the track would later surface on Camel’s 1978 LP, Breathless as “Down on the Farm.” Lyrically the piece is almost identical, but it’s always great to hear Jan Schelhaas’ underrated synth playing. Taken as a whole, this disc ranks as another fine extension of the Canterbury scene catalog.

Filed under: New releases, Issue 26, 2002 releases

Related artist(s): Pip Pyle, Richard Sinclair

More info
http://richardsinclairsongs.bandcamp.com/album/live-tracks

 

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