'Thirteen' is the thirteenth studio album by classic British prog band Soft Machine. The album of superlative new material, marks a fresh chapter in the group's 60-year history. Soft Machine in 2026 is not what you would expect, they've produced a vibrant and exciting Jazz record that deserves to be heard! 'Thirteen' features legendary guitarist John Etheridge , who has been with the band over 50 years and is once again in superb form. Whilst all four members of the band contribute compositions, the album's main composer is saxophonist, flautist and keyboard player Theo Travis, who wrote six of the album's thirteen tracks. The newest member of the group is drummer and composer Asaf Sirkis. "Daevid's Special Cuppa" sees a cameo by founder member Daevid Allen (his guitar part being recorded years earlier, and the track built around it). John Etheridge – electric guitarTheo Travis - tenor & soprano sax, flute, Fender Rhodes piano, electronicsFred Thelonious Baker – bass guitarAsaf Sirkis - drums & percussion The album is incredibly broad in its breadth and scope. Tracks include "Open Road" a rocky track which sees the band soaring on all burners with fiery solos by both Etheridge and Travis; the ballad "Disappear", which starts with ethereal looped flutes and develops into a beautiful piano led and drum less miniature. "Turmoil", penned by bassist Fred Thelonious Baker , brims with deranged fuzz bass, manic solos and an almost unhinged clamour. On 'Thirteen' Soft Machine has never sounded more adventurous. 1. Lemon Poem Song2. Open Road3. Seven Hours4. Waltz For Robert5. The Longest Night6. Disappear7. Green Books8. Beledo Balado9. Pens To The Foal Mode10. Time Station11. Which Bridge Did You Cross12. Turmoil13. Daevid's Special CuppaVINYL ONLY BONUS TRACKS1. Carol Ann (Bonus Track)2. Curious Dust (Bonus Track)3. Tarn Hows (Bonus Track)4. Seven Hours (Alt take) (Bonus Track)5. We Thought It Was Tuesday (Bonus Track)
