Volume Two (The Soft Machine album)

Volume Two is the second studio album by the English Canterbury scene progressive rock band Soft Machine, released in 1969. It followed their self-titled debut album, The Soft Machine, released the previous year.

The album represents a progression from the band's earlier psychedelic and jazz-influenced sound towards a more complex and experimental form of progressive rock, incorporating elements of free improvisation and avant-garde music. It showcases the talents of the core quartet of Mike Ratledge on organ and piano, Robert Wyatt on drums and vocals, Hugh Hopper on bass, and Brian Hopper on saxophone.

Volume Two is characterized by its intricate instrumental arrangements, extended pieces, and a generally more challenging listening experience compared to its predecessor. The album's tracks are often lengthy and feature shifts in tempo, time signature, and mood. It is considered a key album in the Canterbury scene and an influential work in the development of progressive rock. The album's title reflects its position in the band's discography, signifying a continuation of their musical exploration.