Steps

Steps was an English jazz-rock band that released a 1977 self-titled album on French EMI. Keyboardist Steve Franklin later partook in Phil Miller’s In Cahoots and appeared on two noughties-era releases by Hugh Hopper. During the 1980s, drummer Roy Dodds provided backing for the sophisti-pop combos Weekend, Working Week, and Fairground Attraction. Saxophonist Steve Mulligan gigged with the initial lineup of experimental big-band Loose Tubes, but didn’t appear on its albums.

Members: Steve Mulligan (baritone saxophone, alto saxophone, sopranino saxophone), Steve Franklin (keyboards), Roy Dodds (drums, percussion)

Background

Drummer Roy Dodds first worked with bassist Pete Brandt in Bradford, Yorkshire, after the two met through a mutual friend. Dodds moved to Bristol, where he and Brandt played in the experimental free-form rock band Hengis Pod.

Dodds subsequently played in Steps with keyboardist Steve Franklin and saxophonist Steve Mulligan. Brandt played fretless bass with the group on tours and BBC jazz-radio sessions. Steps recorded the self-titled album at Matrix and Island Studios in London with producer Nick Bradford, bassist John Woollard on three tracks, and bassist Hansford Rowe on five tracks.

Discography:

• Steps (1977)