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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZTHOMPSON, Danny(b 4 April 1939, Teignmouth, Devon) Double bass player notable for his contribution to British fusion experiments, and later involved in world music as well as leading his own combo. His roots were in skiffle and mainstream jazz inspired by seeing Big Bill Broonzy's last British gig. He was part of a legendary Tubby Hayes Quartet with pianist Terry Shannon and drummer Phil Seamen, then Alexis Korner's Blues Incorporated '64-6; he also worked with John McLaughlin; as a founder member of Pentangle he toured with much success in jazz-folk fusion (The Collection '88 on Castle UK). He collaborated many times with John Martyn, beginning with Road To Ruin '70; as a session musician Thompson has probably played on as many albums as any British artist. His first album as leader was Whatever '88 on Hannibal (later on CD from Rykodisc) with guitarist Bernie Holland and Tony Roberts on reeds and Northumbrian pipes; Elemental '90 on Island saw John Etheridge replace Holland, adding Paul Dunmall on reeds, Stan Tracey, Alan Skidmore and others. He formed his own The Jazz Label, releases including Etheridge's Ash. Later collaborations included Ketama (African/flamenco fusion) and others with Toumani Diabate (see his entry). Industry '97 on Parlophone was a duo with Richard Thompson (no relation). |