National Health was a British progressive rock band formed in the late 1970s, known for its intricate compositions and jazz-influenced sound. The band was an important part of the Canterbury Scene and featured several notable musicians from the genre. Hereโs a detailed overview of National Health:
Formation and History
Formation:
- Formation Year: 1977
- Founding Members: The band was formed by members of other prominent Canterbury Scene bands, including Dave Stewart, Phil Miller, and others.
National Health was created as a continuation of the Canterbury Scene’s experimental spirit, focusing on complex compositions and a blend of jazz fusion and progressive rock.
Key Members
- Dave Stewart: (1945-2023) – Keyboards. Stewart was a key figure in the Canterbury Scene, known for his work with Egg, Gilgamesh, and Hatfield and the North.
- Phil Miller: (1949-1980) – Guitar. Miller was known for his distinctive guitar work in bands like Hatfield and the North and Quiet Sun.
- Alan Gowen: (1947-1981) – Keyboards. Gowen was known for his work with Gilgamesh and was an influential member of National Health.
- Richard Sinclair: – Bass guitar and vocals. Sinclairโs bass playing and vocals added a unique dimension to the bandโs sound. He was also a member of Caravan and Hatfield and the North.
- Neil Murray: – Bass guitar. Murray joined National Health in later years, contributing to their evolving sound.
- Pip Pyle: – Drums. Pyle was known for his work with Hatfield and the North and was a key member of National Healthโs rhythm section.
Notable Albums
- National Health (1978)
- Overview: The bandโs debut album features complex, jazz-influenced progressive rock, with intricate arrangements and virtuosic playing.
- Key Tracks: “Tenemos Roads”, “Elephantine”, “Paracelsus”
- Of Queues and Cures (1978)
- Overview: This album continued National Healthโs exploration of progressive rock and jazz fusion, featuring complex compositions and innovative arrangements.
- Key Tracks: “Dance of the Little Fairies”, “Art for Art’s Sake”, “The Collapso”
- D.S. Al Coda (1982)
- Overview: A live album that captures the bandโs dynamic performances and showcases their musicianship.
- Key Tracks: “D.S. Al Coda”, “Arriving Twice”, “Squid’s Legs”
Characteristics and Influence
- Jazz Fusion and Progressive Rock: National Healthโs music is characterized by its blend of jazz fusion and progressive rock, with a focus on complex arrangements and intricate musicianship.
- Canterbury Scene Influence: The band was an important part of the Canterbury Scene, known for its eclectic and experimental approach to music.
- Musicianship: National Healthโs lineup included several prominent musicians from the Canterbury Scene, contributing to their distinctive sound and innovative approach.
Legacy
National Health is remembered for its significant contributions to the Canterbury Scene and its impact on the progressive rock and jazz fusion genres. The bandโs intricate compositions and virtuosic playing have earned them a dedicated following, and their work remains influential in the development of these genres. The members of National Health went on to make notable contributions to other progressive and jazz projects, further solidifying their legacy in the world of experimental music.
