Latest News and Events
Stay informed with the latest news, events, and projects from Ray Russell right here on our news page.
For more frequent updates and insights, follow him on social media @rayrussellmusic across Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Don't miss out on any exciting announcements!
January 6th 2025
"Ray Russell’s illustrious career spans a broad range of projects, from his early jazz days with the John Barry Seven, Graham Bond, and Georgie Fame to the Ray Russell Quartet, Rock Workshop, and progressive rock with bands like The Running Man and Mouse."
November 29th 2024
RAY RUSSELL QUARTET
This tracks on this album were recorded between 1967 and 1969 and include all the tracks on the five sessions Ray Russell’s Quartet recorded ‘live’ for Jazz Club in that period. Those sessions included compositions from Ray’s first two albums he made as leader for CBS – Turn Circle and Dragon Hill. Just six tracks from these sessions were previously released on very limited edition soon sold-out vinyl album 'Spontaneous Event' by Jazz In Britain in 2000. That album attracted particular interest on its release, it received great reviews and quite high prices are now being asked for second-hand copies… that's if you can find one! We have regularly been asked if we plan to re-press that album or re-issue it on CD. So, in response to those requests, we decided to release all the music on a double CD and download as The 'Complete’ Spontaneous Event.
These recordings were transferred from reel tapes from the archives of Ray Russell and Ron Mathewson. Can I Have My Paper-back Back, Peruvian Triangle, Spontaneous Event, Dragon Hill, Spring Flower and First Sighting were previously released on Jazz In Britain in 2000 in mono on vinyl as Spontaneous Event (JIB-02-M-LP). Bonita, The Fry and I and Spinning Disc were released at the same time as download only bonus tracks. The remaining tracks have never been released before.
"Wow! Very pleased to have this new album out. Thanks to John Thurlow and Daniel Spicer for a great review. The Ultimate Christmas Gift! And of course, the Vinyl. This has to beat Turkey by a country mile!
I couldnt have asked for better musicians to jam with on these recordings. It was a real stage of development for us all.
Regrets that the great double bassist Ron Mathewson has passed and also the underrated Pianist Roy Fry. Both amazing. How fantastic to have a record so popular 47 years after the recording. X"
NEXT GIG
22nd FEB 2025 at the HAILSHAM PAVILION in East Sussex
Rays band will consist of Jim Watson on keyboard, George Baldwin on bass, Ian Palmer on drums and a special guest, Jade Ruby Foreman on Vocals
Tickets available at
November 23rd 2024
The Hitman
Ray presented his Hitman show at the Hailsham Pavilion, a surprise guest on the night was Rula Lenska, who performed with Ray in the 70s hit TV series Rock Follies and from Los Angeles, former band mate Chelsea Sykes joined Ray onstage for an impromptu jam
Video project
Personal Projects and Supporting the launch of The British Music Vault
Ray is currently recording his upcoming video series that examines the comprehensive history of Ray's guitars and equipment. This series will highlight the evolution of his signature sound and the instruments that have influenced his musical journey.
Furthermore, Ray is honored to support the British Music Vault, a YouTube channel focused on conducting interviews with professionals in the British music industry and preserving essential music-related content. We invite you to stay tuned for insightful narratives and exclusive insights into the music world.
Rehersals
Enhanced Band line-up
Rehearsals for future live events are underway, featuring an enhanced band full of exceptional talent. Please stay tuned for further updates as we prepare for an unforgettable events.
Project
New album
Ray is presently engaged in the production of a new album. This upcoming project promises to deliver innovative sounds that reflect his artistic growth. We invite you to stay tuned for further updates as he develops this significant work.
23rd November 2024
Hitman
Join us for an unforgettable evening with Ray, also known as The Hitman, at the Hailsham Pavilion on November 23rd, 2024. Experience an engaging night filled with stories, insights, and entertainment from this iconic figure. Don't miss your chance to be part of special event! Get your tickets now and prepare for an evening to remember.
Running man
Re-released by Angel Air Records
To be confirmed.