Nucleus (band)

Nucleus was a British jazz-rock band formed in 1969 by Ian Carr, following his departure from the Rendell-Carr Quintet. The band is considered a pioneering force in the British jazz fusion movement.

History:

Carr formed Nucleus with a lineup that initially included Karl Jenkins (oboe, keyboards), Chris Spedding (guitar), Jeff Clyne (bass), and John Marshall (drums). Their debut album, Elastic Rock (1970), won Album of the Year at the Montreux Jazz Festival, bringing them immediate international recognition.

Throughout the 1970s, Nucleus underwent several lineup changes, with Carr remaining the central figure. Musicians who were members of Nucleus at various times included Brian Smith, Dave MacRae, Tony Levin, and Roger Sutton. The band's sound evolved, incorporating elements of progressive rock and experimental music alongside their core jazz fusion style.

Nucleus released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including We'll Talk About It Later (1971), Belladonna (1972), Labyrinth (1973), and Roots (1973). Their music was characterized by complex compositions, intricate arrangements, and virtuosic instrumental performances.

The band continued to perform and record throughout the 1970s, eventually disbanding in the early 1980s. Ian Carr continued to be active in music, writing books and lecturing on jazz.

Discography (Selected):

• Elastic Rock (1970)
• We'll Talk About It Later (1971)
• Belladonna (1972)
• Labyrinth (1973)
• Roots (1973)
• Under the Sun (1974)
• Snakehips Etcetera (1975)
• Alleycat (1975)
• In Flagrante Delicto (1977)
• Out of the Long Dark (1979)