Chris Barber - Drat That Fratle Rat! (1972)

"Drat That Fratle Rat!" (1972) is one of the most unexpected and experimental albums in the career of legendary British jazz trombonist and bandleader Chris Barber.

Until the late 1960s, Chris Barber was known primarily as a master of traditional Dixieland and blues. "Drat That Fratle Rat!" marked a turning point, as Barber "dipped his toes into jazz-rock," combining a powerful rock rhythm section with electric guitars and brass arrangements.

Instead of his standard permanent lineup, Barber used only individual band members, inviting musicians from the rock scene as guests.

Guitar and composer Steve Hammond, who joined the band shortly before recording, had a huge influence on the album's sound. He produced almost all the tracks and co-wrote three compositions on the album.