ABRACADABRA

When the former members of a prog/jazz supergroup reunite after thirty years they could be forgiven for releasing a crowd-pleasing visit to familiar territory. Not so with these four. All were at one time or another part of Soft Machine and all have gone on to many other musical projects. Although the name 'Soft Works' pays a clear homage to their roots together the music on 'Abracadabra' leans much more toward contemporary jazz and rarely reveals any rock roots. It is, however, still very much a fusion of styles and the pedigree of musicianship speaks for itself. Apart from the odd corny pun in titles like 'First Trane' or ' Baker's Treat' this album will bring gasps of joy from their old fans and from many jazzers.