The full set of Brian Auger and his influential jazz-fusion band Oblivion Express play Hartford, CT

Here at the Black-eyed & Blues Fest in Bushnell Park Hartford, CT is the full set from Brian Auger's Oblivion Express. Full set... full moon!
Brian Auger, often referred to as "The Godfather of Acid Jazz," is a celebrated British keyboardist, composer, and bandleader known for his virtuosic mastery of the Hammond B3 organ. Born in London, England, Auger carved out a unique niche in the music world by blending jazz, rock, R&B, and funk into a groundbreaking and soulful style. His innovative approach to the Hammond B3 has inspired generations of musicians and earned him a devoted global following.
Musical Style
Auger's playing is characterized by a rich, bluesy tone, intricate improvisations, and an ability to seamlessly meld diverse genres. A pioneer of jazz fusion, Auger fused the improvisational complexity of bebop with the energy of rock and the grooves of funk, creating a sound that was both innovative and accessible. His performances often feature fiery solos, groove-laden rhythms, and an infectious energy that defines his music.
Career Highlights and Hits
Brian Auger gained early recognition as a jazz pianist before transitioning to the Hammond B3 organ. In the mid-1960s, he formed Brian Auger and the Trinity, a band that became a cornerstone of the British jazz-rock scene. The group achieved mainstream success with their chart-topping single "This Wheel's on Fire" in 1968, a hauntingly psychedelic reimagining of the Bob Dylan and Rick Danko classic, featuring the soulful vocals of Julie Driscoll. This track became an anthem of the late 1960s and firmly established Auger's reputation as a musical innovator.
In 1970, Auger formed the influential jazz-fusion band Brian Auger’s Oblivion Express, pushing the boundaries of contemporary music with their genre-blurring sound. Albums such as "Closer to It!" (1973) and "Straight Ahead" (1974) showcased Auger's talent for combining virtuosic musicianship with socially conscious lyrics. Tracks like "Happiness is Just Around the Bend" and "Whenever You're Ready" remain staples of his catalog.
Collaborations and Bandmates
Over his illustrious career, Brian Auger has collaborated with an array of legendary musicians. Notably, he worked with Julie Driscoll, whose distinctive voice helped define the early Trinity sound. In the Oblivion Express era, Auger played alongside talented bandmates such as guitarist Jim Mullen and bassist Clive Chaman, both of whom became prominent figures in the British jazz and fusion scenes.
Auger also collaborated with icons like Rod Stewart, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones, and Eric Burdon of The Animals. His ability to adapt his playing to complement other artists while maintaining his unique voice made him a sought-after collaborator.
Legacy
Brian Auger’s contributions to music have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. As a pioneer of acid jazz and jazz fusion, his work laid the groundwork for bands like Jamiroquai and the Brand New Heavies, while his influence can be heard in the grooves of modern funk, soul, and jazz artists. With an enduring career spanning over six decades, Brian Auger remains an indomitable force in music, continuing to tour and inspire with his inimitable Hammond B3 wizardry.
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Savannah Grace Auger - Vocals
Karma D Auger - Drums
Chris Golden - Bass
Brian Auger - Keyboards and "The Miracle Maker"