The Running Man. 1972 England

The Running Man features jazz guitarist Ray Russell, and was originally released on the progressive oriented UK based Neon label. Overall their sole album is a progressive rock affair in the understated UK style that I find highly appealing. Given its jazz heritage, The Running Man have more in common with Tonton Macoute or Catapilla than say... Spring. Truth be told, there really isn't any other album quite like it. There are some rather plain rockers (usually short), mixed with longer jazzier pieces, and then onto some radical screaming Hendrix styled fuzz inspired numbers. Russell goes Sonny Sharrock on the 8 minute 'Spirit' - essentially psychedelic free rock. The Angel Air / Air Mail CDs add an 11+ minute version of 'Spirit', with further improvisational guitar stacked up front.

Ownership: CD: 2005 Air Mail (Japan). Comes in a fine gatefold mini-LP jacket with no extras.

Removed from collection (2022)

2005; 10/18/18 (new entry); 7/17/22

Circus. 1969 England

Most famous for featuring Mel Collins on flute and sax, later of King Crimson. For what this is, it's outstanding. Jazzy progressive instrumental work, with fantastic musicianship and great tones. But, and it's a big but, most of the material are cover tunes. Some are more recognizable than others, and pretty much feature extended, improvised, and original jams on most tracks. So, as I said, about as good as it can get for the limited style.

Former ownership: CD: 2005 Arcangelo (Japan). Papersleeve edition.

My first copy was the Get Back LP reissue.

2000 (first listen); 5/11/17 (review / new entry); 2/18/24