The John Payne Band - Bedtime Stories (1976) [Hi-Res]

American saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist John Payne (John Payne) earned industry recognition following his contribution to Van Morrison's (Van Morrison) milestone album Astral Weeks, as well as his session work on Bonnie Raitt's (Bonnie Raitt) Give It Up in Woodstock. Between 1972 and 1974, he established himself as a versatile woodwind session musician, collaborating with David Bromberg (David Bromberg), Danny O'Keefe (Danny O'Keefe), the rock outfit Fanny, and blues icon Johnny Shines (Johnny Shines).

By 1974, Payne transitioned toward a solo career, assembling the Boston-based quartet The John Payne Band alongside keyboardist and primary composer Louis Levin (Louis Levin). The core lineup featured bassist Scott Lee (Scott Lee), drummer Gerald Murphy (Gerald Murphy), and was later expanded by percussionist Ricardo Torres (Ricardo Torres). Extensive touring across the US Northeast generated the funds necessary to self-release their debut album, Bedtime Stories, via Payne's independent imprint Bromfield Records.

The album's sonic architecture blends jazz, rock, and fusion. The group's musical approach pairs Levin's complex songwriting with dynamic arrangements, utilizing acoustic double bass within a predominantly electrified setting backed by multi-layered percussion.

Tracklist:
1. The John Payne Band - Snow
2. The John Payne Band - Fancy Free
3. The John Payne Band - Song For Love
4. The John Payne Band - African Brother
5. The John Payne Band - Scenes From A Journey
6. The John Payne Band - Thelonious Funk
7. The John Payne Band - Rush