Jade Warrior - Jade Warrior (1971 Very Good British Psychedelia)

Jade Warrior are a British music group that were formed in 1970. The founder members were Tony Duhig (Guitar), Jon Field (Flute, Percussion, Keyboards) and Glyn Havard (Vocals, Bass). Their self titled first album Jade Warrior was released in 1971 on the Vertigo label and establishes their trademark sound of soft/loud contrasts, and Fields multi-layered flutes and percussion vying with Duhig's cutting guitar. This was followed in the same year by Released and then in 1972 by Last Autumn's Dream, both with appearances from Dave Duhig (solo Guitar) and Allan Price (Drums). Material for another two albums, Eclipse and Fifth Element was also recorded during 1973, but Vertigo cancelled the contract and these projects were shelved, not to see the light of day, until their subsequent release in 1998.

In 1974 Steve Winwood (of Traffic) urged Chris Blackwell of Island Records to listen to Jade Warrior, he did, but would only sign them as an instrumental duo, which meant there was no place for bassist/singer Glyn Havard.

Tony Duhig and Jon Field were to create four albums on Island Records, with their sonic arsenal now expanded to include choirs, harp, and a string quartet. Guest musicians on these albums included Steve Winwood (Keyboards), Fred Frith of Henry Cow (Violin) and Tony Duhig's brother Dave (solo Guitar). The four albums were Floating World (1974), Waves (1975), Kites (1976), and the final album on Island, the 1978 release Way Of The Sun.

Personal issues, illness, and Duhig moving house to set up a studio, meant that the next album to be released was the 1979 compilation Reflections taken from their Vertigo years and containing some (at the time) unreleased tracks, and it was not until 1984 that any new material emerged with the release of Horizen and then, in 1989, At Peace which was performed solely by the duo. This was followed by another long hiatus until Jade Warrior were to start their next project with new band members, Colin Henson on Guitar and Dave Sturt on Fretless bass. However, they were dealt a tragic blow by the sudden death of guitarist Tony Duhig in 1990 before he could contribute to the album. The band decided to continue on with the album, which became the 1992 release Breathing The Storm on the Voiceprint label. This trio then released a follow up album Distant Echoes in 1993 with guest appearances from Theo Travis of Gong (Saxophone), David Cross (Violin) and Tom Newman.

It seemed for a while that Jade Warrior may have disbanded as their only output was the previously mentioned Eclipse and Fifth Element, but these were recently joined by the re-issue of all four Island albums in 2006 and the news that Jade Warrior, with Glyn Havard back in the band, are preparing their next album NOW which is due for release in late 2007, early 2008. [Wikipedia]

Jade Warrior was one of the most original and unusual progressive rock bands to come from Britain in the early 70's. They combined strong ethnic influences (mostly from Chinese/Japanese culture) with progressive rock that ranged from heavy, flute-driven Tull-like riffs to peaceful and atmospheric parts. The main musicians in the band were Tony Duhig on guitar and Jon Field, who contributed with flute and lots of ethnic percussion. Especially the first side on their self-titled debut showcased their originality very well. The three-part "Masai Morning" is an orgy of ethnic percussion and very fuzzed and heavy riffs played on guitar and flute. But Duhig's distinctive sound on the guitar is actually best heard on the more quiet songs, like "The Traveller" and "Dragonfly Day". "A Prenormal Day at Brighton" is structurally a quite straightforward, flute driven heavy-prog tune, but the band manages to integrate their ethnic influences into even this one. The second side is a bit more basic but still good, although I don't care too much for the the stripped-down blues of "Petunia". The hard rock of "Telephone Girl" is better, and one of the best known tunes ehre. "Psychiatric Sergeant" has some cool jazzy flute, and the two last tracks are quiet pieces with more of the band's ethnic influences. A unique and strong debut that clearly showcased what an original and creative band Jade Warrior was. [AMG]

01. The Traveller
02. A Prenormal Day At Brighton
03. Masai Morning
04. Windweaver
05. Dragonfly Day
06. Petunia
07. Telephone Girl
08. Psychiatric Sergeant
09. Slow Ride
10. Sundial Song
11. The Traveller [Alternate Take]