#Japan #Tokyo #Soft Machine #Canterbury Music #Progressive Rock

Delving into the Roots of Progressive Rock: Soft Machine

On April 3, 2026, Jeane Co. Ltd., based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, will release the definitive biography titled "Soft Machine: The Origins of Canterbury Music". This work explores the legendary beginnings of Soft Machine, revered as a cornerstone of British progressive rock and Canterbury music. Renowned for their innovative approach, Soft Machine has left an indelible mark on the music scene since their inception in 1967, reshaping the boundaries between rock, jazz, and avant-garde.

Originating from the historic city of Canterbury, Soft Machine captured the essence of the British underground music scene, sharing the stage at the UFO Club alongside notable contemporaries like Pink Floyd. Additionally, their collaboration with Jimi Hendrix during an American tour further solidified their influence and reputation in the music world. Unlike many bands, Soft Machine continuously evolved their sound and lineup, pushing the limits of musical genres and captivating audiences, while simultaneously keeping critics on their toes.

The forthcoming biography meticulously chronicles the band's development from its formation to contemporary times. It is the only complete account that provides an insightful examination of their discography, live performances, and overall journey. The narrative is enriched with contributions from key past members, including David Allen, Hugh Hopper, and John Etheridge, along with valuable resources such as a family tree, concert files, and a comprehensive discography.

Soft Machine stands out not only for their artistic achievements but also for the mysteries surrounding their existence. Often described as "the enigmatic band" whose history is challenging to analyze in depth, the forthcoming biography addresses this gap. Firmly targeted at both fans of progressive rock and newcomers, it serves as a vital reference material for anyone interested in the genre, while also being a compelling read.

Highlights of the Book

• - The only comprehensive biography of Soft Machine, covering their journey from formation to the present.
• - Plenty of anecdotes from the UFO Club, Pink Floyd, and experiences on the American tour with Jimi Hendrix, revealing the vibrant UK rock scene of the '60s and '70s in chronological order.
• - Special contributions from band members providing firsthand insights.
• - An abundance of resources at the end, including a family tree, concert file, discography, recording sessions, and information on TV, radio, and film appearances, and the future of the band members.

Table of Contents

1. Foreword by David Allen
2. Preface by Hugh Hopper
3. Introduction to Revelations
4. Chapter 1: The Canterbury Pendulum
5. Chapter 2: Wild Flowers (1964–1966)
6. Chapter 3: The Unified Band (1966–1967)
7. Chapter 4: UFO and the Unwelcome Outsider (1967)
8. Chapter 5: Landing in America (1968)
9. Chapter 6: Rebirth (1968–1969)
10. Chapter 7: Revival (1969–1970)
11. Chapter 8: The Third Dimension (1970)
12. Chapter 9: Fragmentation (1970–1971)
13. Chapter 10: Fusion (1971–1973)
14. Chapter 11: A New Nucleus (1973–1974)
15. Chapter 12: The End of an Era (1974–1976)
16. Chapter 13: Softening (1976–1984)
17. Final Chapter: The Lost Legacy
18. Appendices including critical documents and resources

About the Author

Graham Bennett is a London native who experienced a significant impact from Soft Machine's performance in 1969. Since then, he has dedicated over 30 years to researching the band and their profound influence on music. This biography represents the culmination of his extensive study and passion for music.

The book is set to be an essential addition to the shelf of any serious music enthusiast, providing insights not only into Soft Machine's journey but also the broader context of the progressive rock genre.

For fans interested in reserving their copy, pre-orders will be available through Jeane Books' official website and retail partners starting soon.