Artist: Quatermass
Title: Unreleased 70s
File: Rock/Fusion
Released to digital sales November 14th 2025
Recently-retrieved recordings from 1970 and 1973 reveal classy jazz underpinnings to this cult British Hammond-driven progressive rock trio, whose self-titled release – ‘Quatermass’ – is widely sought- after to this day.
A rehearsal of a backing track for an unfinished song for the album, ‘Afraid Not’ affords a tantalising glimpse into the mindset of line-up Mick Underwood (drums), John Gustafson (bass, vocals) and J. Peter Robinson (keyboards), recorded in a London rehearsal room in 1970, direct to 2-track with a few microphones.
Next up is a something of a departure stylistically, “Bluegaloo/Broken Chords/Scales” finding Robinson and Gustafson now joined by new drummer Barry de Souza, percussionist Malando Gassama and guitarist Janne Schafer.
Touring with singer-songwriter Shawn Phillips in 1974, the medley was recorded live in Montreal and is a lively, uplifting melange of jazz rock and fusion driven by some versatile and diverse keyboards from Robinson.
‘Quatermass’ the album remains a favourite of prog rock fans, notably for its infectious, radio-friendly rendering of “Black Sheep Of The Family”.
TRACKS
- Afraid Not
- Medley: Bluegaloo/ Broken Chords/Scales