2005 · Album
Rich in London
Recorded 1959, London · Emarcy Records · Produced by Not definitively documented
Drums and London Fog: Buddy's British Adventure
Rich proves he's more than a technical marvel—he's a musician who listens and responds.
Buddy Rich arrived in London with a reputation that preceded him: the fastest hands in drumming, a technician without peer, a guy who could make any drummer look like they were moving in slow motion. Rich in London captures him in 1959 doing something that might surprise people who only know his name from highlight reels. He's not showing off. He's playing jazz with a group of British musicians who clearly respect what he brings, and he's meeting them halfway. The rhythm section here—featuring Ronnie Scott on tenor saxophone and Tubby Hayes on vibraphone—plays with real swing and melodic sophistication. Rich responds not by overwhelming them with speed but by locking into the pocket, pushing the tempos when they need pushing, sitting back when the music calls for it. Tracks like the opening number have a relaxed elegance that contradicts everything people assume about his personality and approach. This isn't a drum showcase. It's a working band finding its groove together. The recording quality captures the room's natural acoustics in a way that makes you feel like you're hearing this live, which works entirely in the album's favor. Rich's cymbal work is particularly stunning here—warm and musical rather than cutting through everything. By this point in his career, he'd already proven himself countless times over. Rich in London matters because it shows restraint and musicality from someone who didn't always get credit for either. It's not his most famous record, and casual listeners might prefer his more explosive sessions. But for anyone interested in understanding what made Rich special beyond the statistics, this one tells you something essential. He could play with anyone, anywhere, and make everyone sound better.
Who's playing
John Keysbass trombone
Paul Kondzielabass
Bob Doganpiano
Joe Caloflute, saxophone
Don Englertflute, saxophone
Lin Bivianotrumpet
John DeFlontrumpet
Tony DiMaggiotrombone
