Clark-Hutchinson - A=MC2: Expanded

Eclectic experimentation from unsung 60s duo

Recorded during two hectic 12-hour sessions for Decca’s Nova label in 1969, A=MC2 was the debut offering from the gifted and experimental partnering of Mick Hutchinson and Andy Clark. Instrumental throughout, it’s built largely around the extraordinary neo-Eastern electric guitar work of Hutchinson, who did his best to push the limits of his instrument, à la John Fahey.

Consisting of five lengthy improvisations loosely based around Indian and Spanish themes, it remains a classic, if largely forgotten, rock record of the period. Deep into the extended jams of Improvisation On A Modal Scale and Textures In 3/4, careful listening is rewarded by the hypnotic mix of blues, raga and jazz. Elsewhere, however, it can ramble unless you adore virtuosity for virtuosity’s sake. That said, the final “movement”, Improvisation On An Indian Scale, is searing and gorgeous from start to finish, illustrating the immense talents of the duo as both composers and musicians.

Highly regarded by prog, blues and jazz acolytes alike, A=MC2 truly deserves reappraisal. Here expanded to include earlier, hitherto unreleased tracks that illustrate an extraordinary musical evolution, this new package offers the chance to do just that. Highly recommended.

4 stars 4 stars 4 stars 4 stars

Sunbeam | SBR2CD 5048 (2-CD)

Reviewed by Jan Zarebski
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