Connected CD

NETWORK was born out of an idea by London jazz drummer STEVE CLARKE who had been a familiar face on the UK gigging scene since the late 1970s when he first occupied the drum stool for progressive rock band Quasar alongside guitarist John Clark who later went on to join Bruford.At the age of 21 Steve had earned much respect amongst the jazz fraternity and caught the attention of drumming legend Billy Cobham who offered Steve the position of drum tech on his UK shows. Steve didnt have to be asked twice and jumped at the chance to study the master from what was the best seat in the house.Regularly meeting and playing with other like minded musicians on this vibrant UK jazz scene, Steve decided to take the step of assembling a handpicked group of seasoned musicians alongside some up and coming young talent to form the nucleus of what would becomeNETWORK.The framework of this exciting jazz fusion venture would include bandleader Steve Clarke drums, Tim Crowther guitar, Pete Jacobson Keyboards, Laurence Cottle bass and Ted Emmett trumpet.As the band journeyed forward gaining a formidable reputation as they grew with the music, they were able to recruit some of the most respected musicians who were associated with this genre of jazz to play on their recordings. Jan Hammer, Jack Bruce, Larry Coryell, Randy Brecker, Dean Brown, Hadrien Feraud and Tom Coster Jnr would all lend their unique services and contribute to the musical phenomenon that isNETWORK.CONNECTED is a hand picked collection of jazz fusion compositions taken from the NETWORK catalogue of albums that were recorded over a period of 10 years 1992 2002.Steve Clarke Joining me on these recordings are some of the most respected and influential jazz musicians of our time and I consider myself very fortunate indeed to have occupied the drum stool for these recording sessions.Cream were a groundbreaking band that cleverly incorporated a heavy jazz influence into their blues based songs. To be gifted the opportunity to work with Jack Bruce was a very proud moment in my career and a memory that I will forever treasure. Jacks interpretation and performance of the Hendrix song Manic Depression is pure genius.