2 LP Brian Auger’s Streetnoise, recorded in 1969 with Julie Driscoll and The Trinity, stands as a landmark of late 1960s eclecticism, where the boundaries of jazz, rock, folk, and soul blur into a cohesive, genre-defying masterpiece. Auger was moving The Trinity on from their R&B, jazz beginnings and for Streetnoise, together with Driscoll, delivered a record that channelled their mutually progressive vision. Julies haunting vocal performances were the perfect counterpoint to Auger’s innovative instrumentation, creating a sound that was both avant-garde yet deeply soulful. “We aimed to challenge expectations, ” Auger recalls. “Every track was a canvas to experiment and push the envelope.” The album’s gatefold sleeve design, created by Ralph Steadman, inspired by William Hogarths 18th-century satirical etchings, was as groundbreaking as its music. This was not just a cover, it was a bold statement about art and society, perfectly mirroring the music’s blend of historical reverence and forward-thinking innovation. Musically, Streetnoise is a kaleidoscope of styles including jazz and R&B, fusion, folk, rock and gospel flourishes. “Ellis Island, ” and “Finally Found You Out” are both intense instrumentals that embody the intense fusion of jazz and rock the group was known for. “Indian Rope Man” is one of the standout tracks. A cover of Richie Havens original, that inspired The Charlatans ‘Indian Rope’ and All Blues, a bold reinterpretation of Miles Davis’ iconic Kind of Blue masterpiece, on which Driscolls vocal performance may be the highlight. “Flesh Failures (Let the Sunshine In)” is a hauntingly beautiful cover of the finale from the musical Hair. Augers own compositions from the opening instrumental Tropic Of Capricorn, to the introspective solo piano and vocal Looking In The Eye Of The World display Brians multiple talents. Celebrated for its fearless creativity across all 16 tracks, the album is testament to Brian Auger and Julie Driscoll’s visionary artistry. It remains a must-listen for anyone exploring the dynamic intersections of jazz, rock, and soul. The album’s reputation has only grown with time, cementing its legacy as a cornerstone of experimental music. Streetnoise; A wholly unique album from an equally unique group TRACKLIST: A1. Tropic of Capricorn A2. Czechoslovakia A3. Take Me To The Water A4. A Word About Colour B1. Light My Fire B2. Indian Rope Man B3. When I Was A Young Girl B4. Flesh Failures (Let the Sunshine in) C1. Ellis Island C2. In Search Of The Sun C3.. Finally Found You Out C4. Looking In The Eye Of The World D1. Vauxhall To Lambeth Bridge D2. All Blues D3. I’ve Got Life D4. Save The Country
