Bill Bruford's Earthworks - Footloose and Fancy Free (LP)

Bill Bruford's Earthworks return with "Footloose and Fancy Free," a sprawling double album that showcases the band's mastery of jazz fusion, free jazz, and progressive rock. Released on July 11, 2002, via Summerfold, this 117-minute opus is a testament to Bill Bruford's enduring legacy as a first-rate jazz drummer, composer, and bandleader. Recorded in June 2001, the album features 14 intricate tracks that blend acoustic jazz with rock energy, proving that jazz can indeed "rock."

The album opens with the title track, "Footloose and Fancy Free," setting the stage for a journey through complex compositions and virtuosic performances. Each track, from the haunting "If Summer Had Its Ghosts" to the energetic "Revel Without a Pause," demonstrates the band's ability to push musical boundaries. Highlights include the intricate "Triplicity," the thought-provoking "The Emperor's New Clothes," and the captivating "Dewey-Eyed, Then Dancing."

"Footloose and Fancy Free" is not just an album; it's an exploration of sound and rhythm, a celebration of musical innovation, and a showcase of Bill Bruford's Earthworks' unique blend of genres. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or a rock aficionado, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.