(TruThoughts/Creative Vibes)

Nostalgia 77 is a multifaceted affair assembled around producer Ben Lamdin, best known to most of us as the name behind the astounding rework of 7 Nation Army with Alice Russell. As a logical next step out of an increasing jazz element in his production work, Lamdin formed the Nostalgia 77 Octet, drawing on a bunch of fine musicians of impeccable pedigree. Quite remarkably, this recording was taken at the Octet’s second-ever live performance, at the Jazz Café in London.

As a rule I have little time for freeform jazz – I find the interminable solos and wanky self-indulgent displays of virtuosity a bit too much to stomach. But there is a carefree, almost swaggering, funk sensibility to Nostalgia 77 that I really like. The majority of this set is drawn from the album The Garden, although the cover of Sun Ra’s Watusa is a standout, it’s Afro rhythm and snappy pace setting it apart from the fairly relaxed, sprawling feel of the rest of the set. But there is a delicate and refined structure present behind the improvisation throughout, and this is what puts Nostalgia 77 in another league. Bonus track The Hope Suite is a joy, Lizzie Parks’ soaring vocals wringing extra effect from the lack of vocals elsewhere on the album.

For something which is so completely outside my usual tastes, I’m surprised at how much I have grown to like this album. For anyone keen to explore some forward thinking jazz, or just something a little outside the comfort zone, I would highly recommend giving Nostalgia 77 a listen.