
Soft
Machine Legacy

With three ex-members of
various editions of Soft Machine, guitarist John Etheridge, bassist Hugh
Hopper, drummer John Marshall plus long-time admirer Theo Travis on saxes
and flute, this band retain all that made The Soft Machine one of the most
important fusion bands ever, while bringing a freshness and new vitality
that just adds to the legacy.
The quartet breaths new life into classic Soft Machine compositions but
the emphasis is on new material that provides ample space for exploration
and interaction. With Etheridge and Hopper already utilizing real-time sampling
and looping, the addition of Travis and his remarkable system of ambitronics
promises to further expand their sonic potential.
Hugh Hopper began his musical life in the mid-sixties, and was bassist and
writer with Soft Machine during their most successful period, playing/composing
on the first six albums and touring countless miles in Europe and America.
John Marshall is an internationally respected drummer who also started professional
life in the mid 60s and was a founder member of Nucleus in 1969. In 1972
he joined Soft Machine, eventually becoming, later in the decade, co-leader
with Karl Jenkins.
Theo Travis - a favourite with Teignmouth, having appeared a number of times
- may not have played in Soft Machine but he grew up influenced by the group
and is an equal part of the adventurous spirit that has been carried forward
into Soft Machine Legacy. Theo joined the band in 2006 and as well as being
known for innovative looping, has contributed three compositions to their
last album Steam.