Bruford – Gradually Going Tornado

Bruford – Gradually Going Tornado

Released in 1980, Gradually Going Tornado is the third studio album by Bruford, the progressive jazz-rock group led by celebrated drummer Bill Bruford, whose career also encompassed landmark work with Yes, King Crimson and UK. Building on the intricate musicianship and adventurous arrangements of the band's earlier records, this album finds the group exploring a more direct progressive rock sound without losing the rhythmic sophistication and improvisational spirit that defined their music. Recorded at Surrey Sound Studios in England during October and November 1979, it was co-produced by Bruford and Ron Malo.

The line-up brings together Bruford's highly individual drumming, Dave Stewart's inventive keyboards, Jeff Berlin's fluid bass playing and lead vocals, and guitarist John Clark, who replaced the acclaimed Allan Holdsworth before the album's recording. Clark was playfully credited as “The Unknown John Clark”, reflecting the band's dry humour and the considerable reputation of his predecessor. Georgie Born adds cello to “Gothic 17”, while Amanda Parsons and Barbara Gaskin contribute backing vocals to the closing epic. 

Across its eight tracks, Gradually Going Tornado balances complex time signatures, sharply articulated ensemble playing and memorable melodic themes. “Age Of Information” establishes the album's precise, energetic approach, while “Gothic 17” adds a distinctive textural dimension through its cello part. Jeff Berlin's “Joe Frazier” brings a punchy, bass-driven character, and “Q. E. D.” showcases the band's ability to develop intricate instrumental ideas over an extended arrangement.

The second side continues the journey through the shifting rhythmic patterns of “The Sliding Floor” and the more reflective “Palewell Park” and “Plans For J.D.” The album culminates in “Land's End”, an expansive piece running over ten minutes that gives Dave Stewart's compositional approach room to unfold, with additional vocal textures enriching the arrangement.

An important release in the late-1970s and early-1980s British progressive rock and jazz-fusion landscape, Gradually Going Tornado will appeal to listeners who appreciate intricate musicianship, adventurous instrumental rock and the crossover between progressive rock and jazz. It is a compelling choice for fans of Bill Bruford's work with Yes and King Crimson, as well as collectors exploring the distinctive sound of the Bruford band.

Tracklist

Side A
A1 Age Of Information — 4:41
A2 Gothic 17 — 5:07
A3 Joe Frazier — 4:41
A4 Q. E. D. — 7:46

Side B
B1 The Sliding Floor — 4:58
B2 Palewell Park — 3:57
B3 Plans For J.D. — 3:50
B4 Land's End — 10:20