Soft Machine’s Paris 1970 captures the British jazz-rock pioneers at a thrilling creative peak, recorded live at the Théâtre de la Musique on March 2, 1970 for France’s Pop Deux TV broadcast. Showcasing the short-lived but legendary quintet with Lyn Dobson and Elton Dean alongside Mike Ratledge, Hugh Hopper, and Robert Wyatt, this performance bridges psychedelic rock, Canterbury-scene experimentalism, and forward-leaning jazz improvisation. Digitally remastered for clarity and punch, the set sweeps through material from their early albums and stage-only pieces, highlighting rhythmic invention, extended organ and sax explorations, and Wyatt’s evocative presence. Historically significant and musically electrifying, this 2-CD set offers a definitive window into Soft Machine’s evolving sound and enduring cultural impact.

• Artist: Soft Machine
• Format: Audio CD (2-CD set)
• Release Type: Live Album
• Genre: Progressive Rock, Jazz Rock, Canterbury Scene, Psychedelic Rock

1. Eamonn Andrews 2. Mousetrap 3. Noisette 4. Backwards 5. Mousetrap [reprise] 6. Out-Bloody-Rageous 7. Facelift 8. Slightly All The Time 9. Moon In June [organ solo] 10. 18-8 Theme 11. Vocal improv. 12. Esther's Nose Job

• Audio: Digitally remastered from the Pop Deux TV broadcast
• Recorded live at Théâtre de la Musique, Paris – March 2, 1970
• Includes background liners and rare archival photos

• Media: 2 Audio CDs
• Bonus: Full-colour booklet with liner notes and rare images
• Packaging: Standard jewel case

Soft Machine emerged from the late-1960s UK underground and became a cornerstone of the Canterbury scene, evolving from psychedelic pop into an adventurous fusion of progressive rock, jazz, and avant-garde experimentation. Known for complex compositions, extended improvisations, and a revolving lineup of virtuoso players, the group influenced generations of jazz-rock and prog artists. Key figures included Robert Wyatt, Mike Ratledge, Hugh Hopper, and later Elton Dean, each shaping the band’s distinctive sound marked by swirling organ textures, exploratory saxophones, and intricate rhythmic interplay. Their live performances, particularly around 1969–1971, are celebrated for bold reinvention and musical risk-taking that helped define the language of British jazz fusion.