Derek Bailey, John Stevens

In its three extended improvisations, The Duke of Wellington reveals the electric unpredictability of Derek Bailey and John Stevens during one night’s performance. The recording documents their remarkable rapport—Bailey’s guitar lines dart and scatter, while Stevens' percussion and trumpet react instantly. Their approach is a study in risk and empathy: they navigate extremes of density and calm, colliding and converging in textured dialogue. Rather than aiming for epic climaxes, the duo thrives on the real-time negotiation of sound, balancing energy with reflection, chaos with order. This release offers more than an archival snapshot; it’s an opportunity to experience the immersive tension of two improvisers merging intuition and technique, honoring the ceaseless act of creative listening.