Bill Bruford – Master Strokes 1978-1985

Bill Bruford – Master Strokes 1978–1985

Bill Bruford – Master Strokes 1978–1985 is an excellent introduction to the work of one of progressive rock's most influential drummers. Released in 1985, this compilation brings together highlights from Bruford's solo career and his work with Bruford, King Crimson and related projects during one of the most adventurous periods of his career.

Following his departure from Yes, Bruford established himself as a leader rather than simply a sideman, forming the band Bruford and developing a distinctive approach that combined intricate progressive rock with jazz fusion, complex time signatures and highly expressive percussion. The compilation captures this adventurous period particularly well, showcasing Bruford's remarkably precise but constantly inventive drumming.

The album opens with "Hell's Bells", followed by the atmospheric "Gothic 17" and the intricate "Travels With Myself – And Someone Else". "Fainting In Coils" is another standout, demonstrating the sophisticated interplay and constantly shifting rhythms that became a hallmark of Bruford's music.

The second side includes "Beelzebub", the two-part "One Of A Kind", and "The Drum Also Waltzes", which puts Bruford's percussion firmly in the spotlight. "Joe Frazier" and "The Sahara Of Snow – Part Two" complete a collection that showcases both the technical ability and musical imagination that made Bruford such an important figure in progressive and fusion music.

Across the compilation, Bruford's work with musicians including Allan Holdsworth, Dave Stewart, Jeff Berlin and John Wetton demonstrates his ability to operate comfortably between progressive rock, jazz and experimental music. His distinctive drumming style – technically extraordinary but never simply about virtuosity – remains hugely influential among musicians and drummers.

For collectors of Bill Bruford, progressive rock, jazz fusion, King Crimson, Yes and British experimental rock, Master Strokes 1978–1985 is a strong overview of Bruford's most adventurous work outside his earlier career with Yes.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Hell's Bells – 3:32
2. Gothic 17 – 5:07
3. Travels With Myself – And Someone Else – 6:14
4. Fainting In Coils – 6:34

Side B

1. Beelzebub – 3:20
2. One Of A Kind – Part One – 2:20
3. One Of A Kind – Part Two – 4:40
4. The Drum Also Waltzes – 2:53
5. Joe Frazier – 4:43
6. The Sahara Of Snow – Part Two – 3:30