Julian Jay Savarin

Exploring "Waiters On The Dance"

"Waiters On The Dance," released in 1971, is the second album by Julian Jay Savarin, a Dominican-born British composer and science fiction novelist. This album serves as a thematic sequel to Julian's Treatment's earlier work, "A Time Before This." The release is part of Savarin's "Lemmus" trilogy, which intertwines his musical compositions with a narrative rooted in science fiction.

Musical Composition and Themes

The album features a collection of six interconnected suites. Each suite contributes to a broader narrative that explores themes of space and time. Noteworthy tracks include "Child Of The Night 1 & 2" and "Dance Of The Golden Flamingoes." The music is characterized by heavy Hammond organ and Mellotron arrangements played by Savarin, combined with Lady JoMeek's powerful lead vocals. JoMeek's voice adds an emotional depth to the album, complementing the intricate instrumental work.

Instrumentally, the album showcases the talents of several musicians. Nigel Jenkins contributes fiery guitar lines, while the rhythm section includes John Dover on bass guitar and Roger Odell on drums. Odell would later find fame as the drummer for the jazz-funk band Shakatak. The dynamic interplay between these musicians enhances the album's progressive rock sound, creating a rich auditory experience.

Production Details

Produced by Miki Dallon, "Waiters On The Dance" was recorded in London. The production team included sound engineers Hunt and Larry Bartlet, who contributed to the album's overall sonic quality. The use of additional string arrangements by Tom Parker further enriches the soundscape, adding layers of texture to the compositions.

Release and Reception

Released under Birth Records, the album aligns with the label's short-lived focus on progressive rock. Despite its limited commercial success, "Waiters On The Dance" has since garnered a cult following among fans of the genre. The combination of Savarin's ambitious storytelling and the diverse musical arrangements has kept the album relevant in progressive rock discussions.