The Musicians' Olympus: Francis Monkman (keyboards)

BANDS:

BAND	PERIOD	DETAILS
Sisyphus	[1968-1969]
Curved Air	[Jan 70-Oct 72]	8 albums + 4 compilations
Robert Wyatt Band	[Dec 72] (1 gig)	2 albums
Alan Sorrenti Band	[1973]	1 album
Matching Mole	[May 73-Jun 73]
Al Stewart Band	[1974-?]	1 album + 1 compilation
Steve Harley Band	[Aug 74]
Curved Air (again)	[Sep 74-Nov 74]
Gary Windo Band	[Nov 75] (1 gig)
801	[Aug 76-Sep 76]	1 album
The Shadows	[May 77-?]
Sky	[1978-1980]	4 albums + 4 compilations
Juan Martin Group	(1 gig)
Darryl Way Band	[1986]	3 albums
Curved Air (again)	[1990]
Francis Monkman		17 albums

BIOGRAPHY:

Superb keyboardist (and a very skilled guitarist) with a classical education, Francis Monkman was a student studying organ and harpsichord at Westminster School, London, later studying at the Royal College of Music, London from 1967 and also becoming a member of the famous Academy of St Martin in the Field, London.

Francis was born Andrew Francis Kenneth Monkman on June 9th, 1949, at Hampstead, London, England.

Francis Monkman while in Curved Air

SISYPHUS

Francis Monkman´s first band was Sisyphus. Francis Monkman and bassist Rob Martin started playing together around 1968, and they were joined by Florian Pilkington-Miksa. Sometime later, they were joined by Darryl Way and a friend, and this was the first real lineup:

SISYPHUS #1			1968-1969
Francis Monkman guitar	Rob Martin bass	Nick Simon keyboards	Darryl Way violin	Florian Pilkington Miksa drums
Curved Airê	Curved Airê		Curved Airê	Curved Airê

In the late fall of 1969, Sisyphus were asked by Galt McDermott (writer of the music for ´Hair´) to be the pit band for a play ´Who The Murderer Was?´, a sequel to ´Hair´. There was a recording of the music made at Landsdowne Studios, London.

In 1969, Nick Simon left the band, and they turned into Curved Air.

Other info on members of Sisyphus (I know up to 5 members)
To be covered (3):	Rob Martin, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way

CURVED AIR

Francis Monkman in Curved Air, busy with both guitar and electronics

A superb band! The peculiar band name comes from a Terry Riley album, A rainbow in curved air. Around January 1970, Sonja Kristina joins, and the band starts its succesful career:

CURVED AIR #1			Jan 70-Apr 70
	êSisyphus	êSisyphus	êSisyphus	êSisyphus
Sonja Kristina vocals	Rob Martin bass	Francis Monkman keyboards, guitar	Darryl Way violin	Florian Pilkington Miksa drums

Their first album, Air conditioning, was a big success. With a stunning track, ´Vivaldi´, it was one of the first picture disc albums ever released.

But, very soon, Rob Martin leaves the band in April 1970.

Curved Air - from left to right: Darryl Way, Francis Monkman, Florian P-M, Ian Eyre, Sonja Kristina

Curved Air - from left to right: Darryl Way (barely visible), Sonja Kristina, Ian Eyre, Florian P-M and Francis Monkman

After Rob Martin´s departure, it starts a long list of bassists in Curved Air lineups:

CURVED AIR #2			Apr 70-Jan 72
Sonja Kristina vocals	Ian Eyre bass	Francis Monkman keyboards, guitar	Darryl Way violin	Florian Pilkington Miksa drums

They release Second album (with a great hit included, ´Back street luv´), but Ian Eyre leaves the band in January 1972.

Barry DeSouza and Francis Monkman in Curved Air

For a while, in 1971, the band´s drummer Florian Pilkington-Miksa had some problem that prevented him from playing, so Francis Monkman brought his mate Barry De Souza during that period:

CURVED AIR #2b			1971
Sonja Kristina vocals	Ian Eyre bass	Francis Monkman keyboards, guitar	Darryl Way violin	Barry De Souza † drums

The band appeared with this lineup at the German Beat Club TV program.

When Francis Monkman wrote ´Piece of mind´ for Curved Air´s Second album, he thought it really needed guitar and keyboards, so the band recruited Peter Robinson as additional keyboardist:

CURVED AIR #?				1971
Sonja Kristina vocals	Ian Eyre bass	Francis Monkman guitar, keyboards	Peter Robinson keyboards	Darryl Way violin	Florian Pilkington Miksa drums

But soon, after a few gigs, they found out they could make it work very well, just with the usual lineup.

Curved Air in 1972. From left to right: Darryl Way, Mike Wedgood, Sonja Kristina, Florian Pilkington Miksa and Francis Monkman

Curved Air - from left to right: Darryl Way, Mike Wedgwood, Sonja Kristina, Florian P-M, Francis Monkman

Curved Air´s new bassist is Mike Wedgwood in the beginning of 1972:

CURVED AIR #3			Jan 72-Oct 72
Sonja Kristina vocals	Mike Wedgwood bass	Francis Monkman keyboards, guitar	Darryl Way violin	Florian Pilkington Miksa drums

After a 3rd album, called Phantasmagoria, Francis, Darryl and Florian leave the band in October 1972. The band continued with Sonja a bit more (with Eddie Jobson), until finally splitting.

There is a live album, released in 1995, called Live at the BBC. It includes 13 tracks from three different concerts: April 1970 (3 tracks - with Rob Martin on bass), January 1971 (5 tracks - with Ian Eyre on bass) as well as 5 more tracks from January 1976, although, of course, Francis doesn't play in these tracks from 1976.

Francis Monkman and Mike Wedgood while in Curved Air

ROBERT WYATT BAND

In December 1972, the great Robert Wyatt (from Soft Machine, he had just dissolved his own band Matching Mole) recorded some tracks for BBC program Top Gear. He sang with the only backing by Francis Monkman.

ROBERT WYATT BAND #?	Dec 72
Robert Wyatt vocals	Francis Monkman keyboards

They performed 3 tracks. Fortunately, one of these tracks can now be found, in the Flotsam and Jetsam (May 94, Rough Trade) album. This is a sort of compilation of rare tracks performed by Robert. It was sold with a book.

Wyatt and Monkman were supposed to keep on playing together, as a new lineup of Matching Mole, as we´re going to read.

Other info on members of Robert Wyatt Band (I know up to 12 members)
Already covered (1):	Harry Beckett
To be covered (9):	Lol Coxhill, Liam Genockey, Steve Lamb, Ian Maidman, Phil Manzanera, Janette Mason, Julie Tippett, Annie Whitehead, Robert Wyatt

ALAN SORRENTI BAND

Alan Sorrenti gig announcement

Alan Sorrenti is an Italian prog singer.

For his album Come un vecchio incensiere all´alba di un villaggio deserto, recorded in London, he was surrounded by English musicians such as Francis Monkman and David Jackson (from Van Der Graaf Generator). They later agreed to make a tour with Alan in 1973:

ALAN SORRENTI BAND #?					1973
Alan Sorrenti vocals	Francis Monkman keyboards	Mario D´Amora keyboards	Vince Tempera keyboards	David Jackson sax, flute	Toni Marcus violin	Tony Esposito drums

Other info on members of Alan Sorrenti Band (I know up to 8 members)
To be covered (3):	David Jackson, Toni Marcus, Jean-Luc Ponty

MATCHING MOLE

Robert Wyatt projected a new lineup for Matching Mole in May 1973, now with his friend Francis Monkman:

MATCHING MOLE #?		May 73-Jun 73
Bill McCormick bass	Francis Monkman keyboards	Gary Windo † sax	Robert Wyatt drums

Gary Windo was recruited when Fred Frith didn´t accept to invitation to join.

But Robert's accident at home in June 1973 prevented him to play drums anymore (he became paralyzed following a fall), so the projected third Matching Mole album was never recorded.

Other info on members of Matching Mole (I know up to 6 members)
To be covered (5):	Dave MacRae, Bill McCormick, Phil Miller, Gary Windo, Robert Wyatt

AND THEN?

Then, Francis concentrated on session work, as we can read below.

AL STEWART BAND

This was Al Stewart Band probably around 1974, and billed as Al Stewart And His Friends From Home:

AL STEWART BAND #?						1974-?
			êCurved Air
Al Stewart vocals, guitar	Laurie Wisefield guitar	Cliff Williams bass	Francis Monkman keyboards	Mick Cook † drums	Juanita Franklin backing vocals	Sally-Ann Downs backing vocals	Andy Fuller backing vocals
			Steve Harley Bandê

Other info on members of Al Stewart Band (I know up to 48 members)
Already covered (3):	Mark Griffiths, Tim Renwick, Roger Swallow
To be covered (44):	Robert Alpert, Jimmy Anderson, Mark Bruce, Dave Camp, Jill Carole, Steve Chapman, Gerry Conway, Mick Cook, Pat Donaldson, Sally-Ann Downs, Juanita Franklin, Andy Fuller, Mark Goldenberg, Isaac Guillory, Charlie Harrison, Tim Hinkley, Laurence Juber, Howard Kaylan, Phil Kenzie, Krysia Kristianne, Robin Lamble, Doug Mann, Jon Manzano, Jerry McMillan, Dave Nachmanoff,... up to 44 musicians.

STEVE HARLEY BAND

Steve Harley had dissolved his band, Cockney Rebel, in the summer of 1974. He assembled a new lineup to play at Reading Festival in August that same year:

STEVE HARLEY BAND #?			Aug 74
Steve Harley vocals, guitar	Jim Cregan guitar	George Ford bass	Francis Monkman keyboards	Stuart Elliott drums

Francis Monkman was called only for that gig. When Harley searched for a permanent band, he recruited Duncan Mackay.

Other info on members of Steve Harley Band (I know up to 50 members)
Already covered (1):	Jo Partridge
To be covered (48):	Lincoln Anderson, Tom Arnold, Paul Ayrie, Victoria Beebee, Phil Beer, Stu Calver, Jim Cregan, Jean Paul Crocker, Alan Darby, Andy Dowling, Rick Driscoll, Bill Dyer, Lindsay Elliott, Stuart Elliott, Guy Fletcher, George Ford, Paul Francis, John Giblin, Robbie Gladwell, Lilly Gonzales, Steve Harley, Susan Harvey, Gavin Hodgson, Jimmy Horowitz, Adam Houghton,... up to 48 musicians.

CURVED AIR (again)

Francis Monkman in Curved Air with Sonja Kristina in the background

But in September 1974, four of the original members assemble Curved Air again, with a new bassist, Phil Kohn:

CURVED AIR #5			Sep 74-Nov 74
Sonja Kristina vocals	Phil Kohn bass	Francis Monkman keyboards, guitar	Darryl Way violin	Florian Pilkington Miksa drums

They did a UK tour during three weeks, and the Live album was recorded then, at Cardiff and Bristol. After the tour, Francis and Florian leave the band again, in November 1974.

GARY WINDO BAND

In November 1975, Gary Windo appeared at BBC TV with this fantastic team:

GARY WINDO BAND #?		Nov 1975
Gary Windo † sax	Hugh Hopper † bass	Francis Monkman keyboards	+ C. Powell on drums. Help, who is he?

Can someone tell me if the drummer (C. Powell) was maybe Cozy Powell, please?

Other info on members of Gary Windo Band (I know up to 13 members)
To be covered (8):	Richard Brunton, Mongezi Feza, Hugh Hopper, Nick Mason, Bill McCormick, Alan Rushton, Ray Russell, Gary Windo

801

801 live in 1976. From left to right: Brian Eno, Phil Manzanera, Bill MacCormick (not visible), Lloyd Watson, Simon Phillips and Francis Monkman

801 in 1976. From left to right: Bill MacCormick, Brian Eno, Lloyd Watson, Francis Monkman, Simon Phillips and Phil Manzanera

Francis Monkman while in 801

801 was assembled in August 1976 by Phil Manzanera, who was guitarist in Roxy Music. Roxy band was ´frozen´ for a while, so Manzanera started this project. Originally intended to be only a live event, Manzanera has put different 801 lineups every time he wasn't too busy. But to me, their first lineup was really incredible:

801 #1				Aug 76-Sep 76
Phil Manzanera guitar	Lloyd Watson guitar, vocals	Bill McCormick bass, vocals	Brian Eno keyboards	Francis Monkman keyboards	Simon Phillips drums

They played three concerts: Cromer, Reading Festival, and Queen Elizabeth Hall, London, where they recorded the material for 801 Live, a fantastic album. In September 1976, the members were involved in their own projects. Manzanera joined Bryan Ferry Band (with Chris Mercer), Brian Eno kept on doing his solo thing, and Francis went to his new project.

Other info on members of 801 (I know up to 9 members)
To be covered (8):	Simon Ainley, Brian Eno, Phil Manzanera, Bill McCormick, Simon Phillips, Dave Skinner, Paul Thompson, Lloyd Watson

THE SHADOWS

Francis Monkman toured with The Shadows around May 1977:

THE SHADOWS #?			May 77
Hank Marvin guitar	Bruce Welch guitar	Alan Jones bass	Francis Monkman keyboards	Brian Bennett drums

But he didn´t stay too much with them.

Other info on members of The Shadows (I know up to 16 members)
Already covered (1):	Mark Griffiths
To be covered (14):	Brian Bennett, Warren Bennett, John Farrar, George Ford, Mo Foster, Cliff Hall, Jet Harris, Alan Jones, Licorice Locking, Hank Marvin, Tony Meehan, John Rostill, Alan Tarney, Bruce Welch

SKY

Francis Monkman while in Sky

Francis Monkman and John Williams while in Sky

Francis Monkman and Tristan Fry while in Sky

Sky live in 1980. From left to right: Francis Monkman, John Williams, Tristan Fry, Kevin Peek, Herbie Flowers

Sky promo photo. From left to right: John Williams, Herbie Flowers, Kevin Peek, Francis Monkman and Tristan Fry

a different promo photo for Sky. From left to right: Tristan Fry, Kevin Peek, Francis Monkman, Herbie Flowers and John Williams

Sky - Francis (just visible), behind Herbie Flowers

John Williams is a great classical guitarist who has a long discography. In the early 70s, he started making some mixtures between classical and rock in his albums, using great sessionmen. His second ´crossover´ album was Travelling, where Francis Monkman played, also playing the title track. The success was so big that they finally decided working as a stable band in 1978. The lineup was:

SKY #1			1978-1980
John Williams guitar	Kevin Peek guitar	Herbie Flowers bass	Francis Monkman keyboards	Tristan Fry drums

Probably, one of the bands with more perfect musical skills ever. All of them play in hundreds of albums.

Their first, self-titled album, Sky, included several tracks written by Francis: ´Cannonball´, ´Westway´ (co-written with Herbie) and the great, long (19:22) track ´Where opposites meet´. A fantastic debut album. It also includes modern arrangements on works by Erik Satie or Pipo. Some CD releases include an additional track written by Francis, ´Dies Irae´.

After a very succesful tour in 1979, the band released their next album, Sky 2. It was a double LP. Beware, it has been reissued on CD, but it misses two tracks: ´Gavotte & variations´ (by Rameau) and ´Andante´ (based on Vivaldi), as well as the very interesting liner notes written by the members. What can I say about this album? This is the album that turned me into Francis work. Again, a long (17:12), fantastic track, ´FIFO´, written by Francis. Ah, it also includes a new rendition of Curved Air's classic tune, ´Vivaldi´.

But after a new tour, Francis leaves the band, somewhere in 1980 (or was maybe around summer 1981?), after the recordings for their third album were scheduled.

Sky - from left to right: John Williams, Kevin Peek, Francis (just visible), Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry

Other info on members of Sky (I know up to 13 members)
To be covered (12):	Ron Aspery, Richard Durrant, Herbie Flowers, Lee Fothergill, Tristan Fry, Steve Gray, Paul Hart, Nicky Hopkins, Kevin Peek, Patrick Ros, Rick Wakeman, John Williams

SOLO VENTURES...

From his session days, Francis recorded several library albums. Sometime later, one of them was released under the Energism name, although it was never intended to be released on its own.

After leaving Sky, Francis has never belonged to another band, although he has been always playing, of course. First step was releasing a solo album, Dweller on the threshold. Recorded with help from Andy Latimer (guitar, from Camel), Dave Dowle (drums, vocals, from Streetwalkers and Whitesnake), Darryl Way (violin), Juan Martin (guitar), Mike Giles (drums, from King Crimson), Tom Nichol (drums), Tristan Fry (percussion), as well as some featured vocalists: Graham Layden, Jools Rathbone, Peter Plant, etc. It was recorded at Abbey Road Studios on May 1981.

As far as I know, he has recorded at least a dozen library albums, but I only know a few ones: one in 1984 and another one in 1992 (Virtual classics, including Tristan Fry. Most tracks are from Francis, but some other are by Graham Preskett). They aren't available for now.

After the album, he returned to his classical roots. He has been playing with flamenco guitarist Juan Martin, as well playing solo concerts featuring works by Mozart or Beethoven.

JUAN MARTIN GROUP

Juan Martin spoke to Francis Monkman about forming a fusion band, but this happened when Sky was getting started. They kept in touch and sometime later, they played one gig together at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London:

JUAN MARTIN GROUP #?	?
Juan Martin guitar	Francis Monkman keyboards

Other info on members of Juan Martin Group (I know up to 3 members)
To be covered (1):	Chris Karan

DARRYL WAY BAND

Together again! Not only they had been playing together in Sisyphus and Curved Air; they also released a joint album.

In 1986, Darryl and Francis performed together again, classical stuff with a string quartet, amplified, at Glastonbury Festival:

DARRYL WAY BAND #?	1986
Darryl Way violin	Francis Monkman keyboards

CURVED AIR (again)

Francis Monkman

It was 1990, and Curved Air re-forms again just to play for a TV program:

CURVED AIR #?			1990
Sonja Kristina vocals	Rob Martin bass	Francis Monkman keyboards, guitar	Darryl Way violin	Florian Pilkington Miksa drums

Other info on members of Curved Air (I know up to 24 members)
Already covered (1):	Barry De Souza
To be covered (22):	Andy Christie, Stewart Copeland, Ian Eyre, Kirby Gregory, Chris Harris, Mick Jacques, Eddie Jobson, Phil Kohn, Sonja Kristina, Rob Martin, John McCoy, Kit Morgan, Robert Norton, John G Perry, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Tony Reeves, Alex Richman, Peter Robinson, Jim Russell, Paul Sax, Darryl Way, Mike Wedgwood

GOING SOLO AGAIN...

As I've said before, Francis got more involved with classical music, having played several recitals (mostly all-Bach), including one in 1996 at Westminster Cathedral.

AND NOW?...

Francis Monkman and his beautiful transparent guitar

That's where the good news arrive! Francis released a brand new album! It's called 21st Century Blues, and it's credited to Francis Monkman & The Virtuous-Realiti Band. With help from Jools Rathbone on vocals (in the ´Another day´ track). It comprises 14 tracks, and it's a very interesting, innovative, surprising and unusual album. It can be ordered from Francis Monkman's own web site, at at http://www.afkm.com.

And now, some conclusions from my own: the album is fantastic, although it needs to be listened carefully many times before starting ´recognizing´ the songs. That is, it’s NOT an easy album, but it is definitely worth the effort. You're getting more and more from it every new listening, and that's something that you can't say about many ´instant´, ´fast-food´ albums.

For people that usually consider Francis Monkman as a keyboardist, the biggest surprise comes when you realize the album is guitar-based. Lots of guitars flow through the tracks. Of course, there are many keyboards, as well as bass and drums and some other instruments, but this shows how clearly Francis has rediscovered his love for guitars. We shouldn't forget he was the one who played all the guitar parts on Curved Air first albums, sharing both tasks (keyboards and guitars) live on stage. For quite obvious reasons, Francis didn´t use guitar while in Sky (even though he also played guitar in their great suite, ´FIFO´, written by Francis), and although he invited Andy Latimer (from Camel) to play guitar in his first solo album, the magnificent Dweller on the threshold (great songs, and great guest players: members of King Crimson, Whitesnake, Camel, Curved Air and Sky), now he has decided it was time to play guitar again. Believe me, you can't but being happy for this decision, after listening to the album.

UPCOMING PROJECTS

Francis has lots of projects on the way. He has also worked up an idea he'd started working on in the early '80s, originally sequenced on synth, for orchestra and synth. It's called Urdance, something of the sound/harmonic world of Sacre. A reworking is due, this time with less 'live instrumentation', it's quite a piece (the orch version expanded to 33 minutes -- an 'internal ballet', he subtitled it).

He also has some recorded works, and they'll probably be available some day from his website, so check it often often (http://www.afkm.com).

SOUNDTRACKS CREDITED TO HIM

In 1979, long before he quit Sky, Francis composed and played the music for the British movie The long good Friday. Directed by John MacKenzie. Starring Bob Hoskins and Helen Mirren, you can also find Pierce Brosnan (Bond ... James Bond). The musicians who play here are: Francis Monkman (keyboards), plus his bandmates in Sky: Kevin Peek (guitar), Herbie Flowers (bass), Tristan Fry (drums). Also with the late ones Tommy Eyre (keyboards) and Ron Aspery (sax, from Back Door with Colin Hodgkinson).

He also wrote the music for The Innocent, another movie directed by John MacKenzie. Starring Liam Neeson (´Schindler's List´ or ´Star Wars, episode I´), Jennifer O'Neill (´Summer of ´42´) and Miranda Richardson. Unfortunately, it wasn't released as an album, so you can only listen to the music while watching the movie.

UNRELEASED PROJECTS:

While Mick Grabham was in the band, Francis Monkman was asked to audition for Procol Harum, but the thing didn´t materialize.

Francis Monkman was asked to join Rainbow by Ritchie Blackmore´s manager, but he finally declined.

DISCOGRAPHY: (117 albums known to me - Status: Quite advanced)

OWN ALBUMS (9 credits)

The Long good Friday OST - Francis Monkman (1980)

Members: Francis Monkman
Guests: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Kevin Peek, Stan Sulzmann (RIP: Ron Aspery, Tommy Eyre, Ian Hamer)
Producer: Graham Walker
Technical: Haydn Bendall (RIP: Tony Clarke)
Comments: In 1979, long before he quit Sky, Francis Monkman composed and played the music for the British movie The long good Friday. Directed by John MacKenzie. Starring Bob Hoskins and Helen Mirren, you can also find Pierce Brosnan (Bond ... James Bond). The musicians who play here are: Francis Monkman (keyboards), plus his bandmates in Sky: Kevin Peek (guitar), Herbie Flowers (bass), Tristan Fry (drums). Also with Tommy Eyre (piano), Ron Aspery (sax, from Back Door with Colin Hodgkinson).

Energism - Francis Monkman (1980)

Members: Francis Monkman
Guests: Mo Foster, Tristan Fry (RIP: Barry De Souza)

Dweller on the threshold - Francis Monkman (1981)

Members: Francis Monkman
Guests: Dave Dowle, Andy Latimer

Americana vol 2 - Francis Monkman (1992)

Members: Francis Monkman
Guests: Rob Martin, Florian Pilkington Miksa
Comments: Recorded in 1991.

21st century blues - Francis Monkman (1998)

Members: Francis Monkman
Producer: George Chkiantz

Western park farm - Francis Monkman (2002)

Members: Francis Monkman

A Harpsichord sampler - Francis Monkman (2003)

Members: Francis Monkman
Technical: George Chkiantz
Comments: Recorded in 1994.

Jam - Francis Monkman (01/2003)

Members: Francis Monkman
Guests: Rob Martin, Florian Pilkington Miksa

J S Bach - Novalis Orgel, Schloeben - Francis Monkman (2006)

Members: Francis Monkman

ALBUMS AS PRODUCER (1 credit)

The Bairstow tradition - Francis Jackson (1993)

Producer: Francis Monkman

ALBUMS AS A BAND MEMBER (22 credits)

Air conditioning - Curved Air (11/1970)

Members: Ian Eyre, Sonja Kristina, Rob Martin, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way
Comments: The first album to appear as a picture disc ever.

Second album - Curved Air (09/1971)

Members: Ian Eyre, Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way

Phantasmagoria - Curved Air (1972)

Members: Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way, Mike Wedgwood
Guests: Paul Cosh, Chris Pyne, Frank Ricotti, Steve Saunders

Come un vecchio incensiere all´alba di un villaggio deserto - Alan Sorrenti (1973)

Members: David Jackson, Toni Marcus, Francis Monkman
Guests: Ron Matthewson

Past present and future - Al Stewart (1974)

Members: Tim Hinkley, Krysia Kristianne, Francis Monkman, Tim Renwick, Al Stewart (RIP: Isaac Guillory, Peter Wood)
Guests: Bob Andrews, Pete Berryman, B J Cole, Richard Hewson, Lennox James, Brian Odgers, Frank Ricotti, Bob Sargeant, Dave Swarbrick, Roger Taylor, Bruce Thomas, Rick Wakeman, John ´Willie´ Wilson (RIP: Michael Oliver)
Technical: (RIP: Mike Stone)
Comments: Past, present and future features: the late Isaac Guillory (guitar), B.J. Cole (steel guitar), Dave Swarbrick (mandolin, from Fairport Convention), Brian Odgers (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Tim Hinkley (keyboards), Rick Wakeman (keyboards), Bob Sargeant (keyboards), Roger Taylor (percussion), Frank Ricotti (percussion), and most of Quiver band: Tim Renwick (guitar), Bruce Thomas (bass), Peter Wood (keyboards) and John 'Willie' Wilson (drums).

Curved Air live - Curved Air (1975)

Members: Phil Kohn, Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way

801 live - 801 (1976)

Members: Brian Eno, Phil Manzanera, Bill McCormick, Francis Monkman, Simon Phillips, Lloyd Watson
Comments: CD reissue contains bonus tracks. But in 2009, there was a new, expanded edition as a 2CD with studio rehearsals held in August 1976.

Concerto for electric violin and synthesizer - Darryl Way (1978)

Members: Francis Monkman, Darryl Way
Guests: Ian Mosley
Comments: This is Darryl´s first solo album, co-written and played with Francis Monkman on keyboards. Ian Mosley guests here.

Sky - Sky (05/1979)

Members: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams

Sky 2 - Sky (1980)

Members: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams

Guitarissimo - Phil Manzanera (1987)

Members: Simon Ainley, Brian Eno, Charles Hayward, Phil Manzanera, Bill McCormick, Francis Monkman, Simon Phillips, Paul Thompson, Lloyd Watson
Guests: Mel Collins, Lol Creme, Kevin Godley, Eddie Jobson, Billy Livsey, Andy Mackay, Dave Mattacks, John Wetton, Robert Wyatt
Comments: Guitarissimo (1975-1982) includes tracks recorded during that period, thus Francis Monkman appearing here again.

The Human condition - Darryl Way with Opus 20 (1987)

Members: Francis Monkman, Darryl Way
Guests: Frank Ricotti

Dali´s car - Brian Eno (1994)

Members: Brian Eno, Phil Manzanera, Bill McCormick, Francis Monkman, Simon Phillips, Philip Rambow, Brian Turrington, Lloyd Watson
Comments: It contains tracks recorded with The Winkies in 1974, and with 801 in 1976 (thus featuring Francis Monkman).

Flotsam jetsam - Robert Wyatt (05/1994)

Members: Lol Coxhill, Dave MacRae, Bill McCormick, Phil Miller, Francis Monkman, Annie Whitehead, Robert Wyatt
Guests: Roy Babbington, Roy Babbington, Richard Brunton, Lindsay Cooper, Dick Cuthell, Roy Dodds, Nick Evans, Fred Frith, Claire Hirst, Dagmar Krause, Mark Lockheart, Nick Mason (RIP: Jeff Clyne, Mongezi Feza, Jimi Hendrix, Tony Hicks, Hugh Hopper, Archie Legget, Ernest Mothle, Gary Windo)
Comments: Rare tracks featuring Robert Wyatt with different bands and musicians.

Live at the BBC - Curved Air (1996)

Members: Stewart Copeland, Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way
Comments: Recordings from the period 1970-1971, plus one track from 1976.

Concertos by Bach, Mozart and Vivaldi - Darryl Way And The Elektra Ensemble (1999)

Members: Francis Monkman, Darryl Way

Alive 1990 - Curved Air (2000)

Members: Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way

Masters from the vaults - Curved Air (07/2003)

Members: Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way, Mike Wedgwood
Comments: Originally an enhanced CD with video footage, it has also been reissued on DVD.
My opinion: It´s a pity the video is very short, taken from a Belgian TV appearance.

Solar flares burn for you - Robert Wyatt (09/2003)

Members: Francis Monkman, Robert Wyatt
Guests: (RIP: Hugh Hopper)
Producer: (RIP: John Walters)
Comments: Collection of unreleased tracks, dating from 1970 to 2003. The 5 tracks with Francis Monkman are from December 1972.

Germany 1980 Live in concert: Bremen - Sky (2005)

Members: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams
Comments: Live DVD.

Music in review - Curved Air (2008)

Members: Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way (RIP: Barry De Souza)
Comments: DVD containing old appearances on TV, as well as interviews made for this release circa 2008 with Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Darryl Way, Florian Pilkington-Miksa, etc.
My opinion: The interview part is very interesting, but the TV appearances are spoiled by including a silly frame all over the performances.

Where opposites met - Sky (2009)

Members: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams
Comments: DVD.

COMPILATIONS AS A BAND MEMBER (10 credits)

Best of - Curved Air (1976)

Members: Ian Eyre, Kirby Gregory, Eddie Jobson, Sonja Kristina, Rob Martin, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Jim Russell, Darryl Way, Mike Wedgwood
Producer: (RIP: Martin Rushent)

Best of Curved Air - Curved Air (1976)

Members: Ian Eyre, Kirby Gregory, Eddie Jobson, Sonja Kristina, Rob Martin, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Jim Russell, Darryl Way, Mike Wedgwood
Producer: (RIP: Martin Rushent)

Masterpieces - the very best of Sky - Sky (1984)

Members: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Steve Gray, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams
Producer: Haydn Bendall

Skytrails - Sky (1987)

Members: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Steve Gray, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams
Producer: Haydn Bendall

The Best of Sky - Sky (1994)

Members: Tristan Fry, Steve Gray, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams

The Manzanera collection - Phil Manzanera (1995)

Members: Paul Carrack, Brian Eno, Bryan Ferry, Guy Fletcher, John Gustafson, Neil Hubbard, Neil Jason, Andy Mackay, Phil Manzanera, Bill McCormick, Francis Monkman, Andy Newmark, Simon Phillips, Allan Schwartzberg, Chris Spedding, Paul Thompson, Fonzi Thornton, Lloyd Watson, John Wetton (RIP: Alan Spenner)
Guests: Guy Barker, Livingstone Brown, John Cale, Chyna, Ray Cooper, Blair Cunningham, Bosco D´Oliveira, Snake Davis, Nic France, Steve Gadd, Simon King, Tony Levin, Clive Mayuyu, John McKenzie, Chucho Merchan, Billy Nicholls, Pino Palladino, Phil Todd, Cleveland Watkiss, Alan White, Mark Wood, Robert Wyatt (RIP: Archie Legget, Nico)
Comments: 2CD compilation with tracks from Manzanera´s bands (Roxy Music, 801, The Explorers), etc. Lots of great musicians: Chris Spedding (guitar), Neil Hubbard (guitar), John Wetton (bass, vocals), John Gustafson (bass), Pino Palladino (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Simon Phillips (drums), Andy Newmark (drums), etc.

Squared - Sky (12/1998)

Members: Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Steve Gray, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, John Williams
Producer: Haydn Bendall

Just yesterday - Al Stewart (05/2005)

Members: Steve Chapman, Gerry Conway, Mark Goldenberg, Tim Hinkley, Laurence Juber, Howard Kaylan, Phil Kenzie, Krysia Kristianne, Robin Lamble, Jerry McMillan, Francis Monkman, Ken Nicol, Simon Nicol, Steve Recker, Tim Renwick, Peter Robinson, Bryan Savage, Harry Stinson, Mark Volman, Peter White, Adam Yurman (RIP: Isaac Guillory, Peter Wood)
Guests: Bob Andrews, Guy Babylon, Brian Bennett, Pete Berryman, Charlie Bisharat, Dave Boruff, Brian Brocklehurst, Bobby Bruce, Kim Bullard, Harvey Burns, Denny Carmassi, Tony Carr, Lenny Castro, Louis Cennamo, Vinnie Colaiuta, B J Cole, Luis Conte, Stuart Cowell, Jim Cox, Lynn Davis, Bruce Dukov, Stuart Elliott, Steve Farris, Michael Fisher, Denny Fongheiser, George Ford, Dominic Genova, Richard Hewson, Carroll Sue Hill, Ashley Hutchings, Lennox James, Michael Jochum, Suzie Katayama, Jim Keltner, Joyce Kennedy, Russ Kunkel, Neil Lancaster, Tim Landers, Marcy Levy, Chas Mills, Neal Morse, Novi Novag, Brian Odgers, David Pack, Jimmy Page, Roger Pope, Duffy Power, Frank Ricotti, Tony Rivers, Mark Sanders, Bob Sargeant, Brinsley Schwarz, Todd Sharp, Pete Solley, Larry Steele, Dave Swarbrick, Bruce Thomas, Lee R Thornburg, Ed Tree, Artie Tripp, Rick Wakeman, Robin Williamson, John ´Willie´ Wilson, Mike Woods (RIP: Barry De Souza, Bruce Gary, Trevor Lucas, Michael Oliver, Jeff Porcaro)
Producer: Alan Parsons

The Best of Curved Air - Curved Air (2008)

Members: Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Darryl Way

Retrospective - Curved Air (2010)

Members: Sonja Kristina, Francis Monkman, Florian Pilkington Miksa, Darryl Way

ALBUMS WITH BANDMATES AND FRIENDS (4 credits)

Listen now - Phil Manzanera (10/1976)

Members: Phil Manzanera
Guests: Simon Ainley, Mel Collins, Lol Creme, Brian Eno, Kevin Godley, Eddie Jobson, Billy Livsey, Dave Mattacks, Bill McCormick, Francis Monkman, Simon Phillips
Comments: Listen/now was a studio album, originally conceived for 801. It was composed while Phil was recovering from an accident. It included many guests, bandmates and friends: Tim Finn (vocals, from Split Enz, later in Crowded House), Kevin Godley & Lol Creme (vocals, from 10CC, later they formed the duo Godley & Creme), Eddie Jobson (keyboards), Billy Livsey (keyboards, from Gallagher & Lyle), Mel Collins (sax), Dave Mattacks (drums. And from different encarnations of 801 band: Simon Ainley (guitar), Bill McCormick (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Brian Eno (keyboards) and Simon Phillips (drums).

Voyage - Brian Bennett (1978)

Members: Brian Bennett
Guests: Alan Jones, Francis Monkman
Comments: Brian Bennett has been The Shadows drummer for several decades (after replacing original drummer, Tony Meehan in October 1961). The album has the subtitle: "a journey into discoid funk". As well as Brian Bennett playing all kinds of percussion, the album features Francis Monkman on keyboards and Alan Jones. The synthesizers were programmed and realized by Francis. This album was reissued as a 2in1CD album, along with Rock dreams album (Dec 97, SeeForMiles).

K scope - Phil Manzanera (1978)

Members: Phil Manzanera
Guests: Simon Ainley, Mel Collins, Lol Creme, Kevin Godley, Bill McCormick, Francis Monkman, Simon Phillips, Dave Skinner, Paul Thompson, John Wetton
Comments: K-scope was Phil's 2nd solo album, and it included several of these same musicians. With Kevin Godley & Lol Creme (vocals), brothers Tim & Neil Finn (vocals), Simon Ainley (guitar), John Wetton (bass, vocals), Bill McCormick (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), David Skinner (keyboards), Mel Collins (sax), Simon Phillips (drums), Paul Thompson (drums).

Travelling - John Williams (1978)

Members: John Williams
Guests: Stuart Elliott, Harold Fisher, Vic Flick, Herbie Flowers, Richard Harvey, Laurence Juber, Francis Monkman (RIP: Barry Morgan)
Comments: Three parts of the Sky band here: John Williams (guitar), Herbie Flowers (bass) and Francis Monkman (keyboards). Also with Laurence Juber (guitar), Les Thatcher (guitar), Richard Harvey (recorder, from Gryphon), Stuart Elliott (drums), Barry Morgan (drums). Francis wrote the title track, and this succesful venture was the seed for Sky.

COLLECTIVE ALBUMS (1 credit)

Starmania - VVAA (1978)

Members: (RIP: Michel Berger)
Guests: Randy Brecker, Andre Ceccarelli, Marc Chantereau, Liliane Davis, Mick Grabham, David Katz, Jim Keltner, Tom Malone, Francis Monkman, Paul Stallworth, Jannick Top, Nanette Workman (RIP: Daniel Balavoine, Michael Brecker)

COLLECTIVE ALBUMS (1 credit)

This is cult fiction - VVAA (1995)

Guests: Francis Monkman (RIP: Louis Armstrong, Isaac Hayes, Hugo Montenegro, Harry Nilsson)

LIBRARY ALBUMS (25 credits)

Contemporary impact - Francis Monkman - Malcolm Ironton - Pete Kelly (1978)

Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album. Most of the tracks were composed by Francis Monkman with Malcolm Ironton, and a few tracks were composed by Pete Kelly.

Pictures in the mind - Francis Monkman - Malcolm Ironton - Richard Harvey (1978)

Guests: Richard Harvey, Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album. Half of it was composed by Francis Monkman with Malcolm Ironton, and the other half was composed by Richard Harvey.

Tempus fugit - Francis Monkman (1978)

Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album.

Driving force - Mike Vickers - Brian Bennett - Johnny Pearson - Francis Monkman (1978)

Guests: Brian Bennett, Steve Gray, Les Hurdle, Jim Lawless, Francis Monkman, Frank Ricotti, Mike Vickers (RIP: Johnny Pearson)
Comments: Library album.

Jingles volume four - VVAA (1978)

Guests: Brian Bennett, John Cameron, Steve Gray, Alan Hawkshaw, Francis Monkman, Roy Morgan, Mike Vickers (RIP: Andrew Pryce Jackman)
Comments: Library album.

Jingles volume two - VVAA (1978)

Guests: John Cameron, Steve Gray, Alan Hawkshaw, Duncan Lamont, Francis Monkman (RIP: Andrew Pryce Jackman, Johnny Pearson)
Comments: Library album.

Soft illusions - VVAA (1978)

Guests: Brian Bennett, Alan Hawkshaw, Les Hurdle, Tony Hymas, Francis Monkman, Frank Ricotti (RIP: Andrew Pryce Jackman)
Comments: Library album.

Auturbine - VVAA (1978)

Guests: Alan Hawkshaw, Francis Monkman

Light my fire - VVAA (1978)

Guests: Brian Bennett, Steve Gray, Alan Hawkshaw, Les Hurdle, Francis Monkman, Frank Ricotti
Comments: Library album.

Advanced technology - VVAA (1978)

Guests: John Cameron, Steve Gray, Les Hurdle, Jim Lawless, Francis Monkman, Frank Ricotti
Comments: Library album.

Fresh approach - VVAA (1978)

Guests: Brian Bennett, John Cameron, Francis Monkman (RIP: Andrew Pryce Jackman)

High adventure - VVAA (1978)

Guests: Steve Gray, Alan Hawkshaw, Jeremy Lubbock, Francis Monkman, Tom Parker, Chris Rae (RIP: Barry De Souza, David Lindup)
Comments: Library album.

Predictions part two - Francis Monkman - Malcolm Ironton (1979)

Guests: Peter Cox, Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album.

Predictions part one - Francis Monkman - Malcolm Ironton (1979)

Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album.

Classical concussion - Francis Monkman (1979)

Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album composed by Francis Monkman, with one track co-written with Malcolm Ironton.

Futurama - VVAA (1979)

Guests: John Cameron, Steve Gray, Les Hurdle, Nick Ingman, Francis Monkman, Frank Ricotti

Rhythm stick - VVAA (1979)

Guests: Brian Bennett, Les Hurdle, Paul Keogh, Francis Monkman, Frank Ricotti (RIP: Andrew Pryce Jackman)

Bruton futurama - VVAA (1979)

Guests: John Cameron, Steve Gray, Les Hurdle, Nick Ingman, Francis Monkman, Frank Ricotti
Comments: Library album.

Jingles volume six - VVAA (1979)

Guests: Steve Gray, Nick Ingman, Francis Monkman, David Snell (RIP: David Lindup, Neil Richardson)
Comments: Library album.

Classical odyssey - Francis Monkman - Darryl Runswick (1980)

Guests: Francis Monkman, Darryl Runswick
Comments: Library album. Francis Monkman and Darryl Runswick write one side of the album each.

Dynamism - Francis Monkman / Paul Hart (1980)

Guests: Paul Hart, Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album.

Forcefield - Francis Monkman (1984)

Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: Library album composed by Francis Monkman (with one track co-written with Adrian Wagner).

Virtual classics - Francis Monkman (1993)

Guests: Francis Monkman, Graham Preskett
Comments: Library album.

Industrial themes & underscores vol 3 - John Fiddy ( - )

Guests: Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek
Comments: Library album.

Fast - VVAA ( - )

Guests: Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek
Comments: Library album.

SOUNDTRACKS (2 credits)

Star wars - The empire strikes back OST - John Williams - The London Symphony Orchestra ( - )

Guests: Irvine Arditti, Robert Clark, John Ford, Brian Gascoigne, Paul Kegg, Francis Monkman, Ann Odell, Martin Robinson, John Rooke (RIP: Lionel Newman)
Comments: Recorded during December 1979 and January 1980.

Indiana Jones - Raiders of the lost ark OST - John Williams ( - )

Guests: Paul Kegg, Francis Monkman

SESSIONS (40 credits)

Black Widow III - Black Widow (1972)

Members: Romeo Challenger, John Culley, Jeff Griffith, Clive Jones, Zoot Taylor, Kip Trevor
Guests: Francis Monkman

New hovering dog - B J Cole (1972)

Members: B J Cole
Guests: Keith Baker, Tristan Fry, Mike Giles, Francis Monkman, Graham Preskett, Danny Thompson (RIP: Robert Kirby)
Comments: He's a superb steel guitar player. I think this was his first album. It includes appearances by: Mick Audsley (guitar, vocals), Keith Baker (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Tristan Fry (percussion), Robert Kirby (keyboards), Graham Preskett (violin), Danny Thompson (bass, from Pentangle), and Mike Giles (drums, from King Crimson).

David Elliott - David Elliott (1972)

Guests: B J Cole, Chris Karan, Albert Lee, Dave Mattacks, Francis Monkman, Nigel Olsson, Caleb Quaye, Tim Renwick, Rick Wills (RIP: Dee Murray, Roy O´Temro)
Producer: Mick Grabham
Comments: In his 1st album, David Elliott, we can find there Albert Lee (guitar), Caleb Quaye (guitar), Nigel Olsson (drums), Dee Murray (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Dave Mattacks (drums), and the whole lineup of Cochise: Mick Grabham (guitar), B.J. Cole (steel guitar), Rick Wills (bass) and Roy O'Temro (drums).

Prologue - Renaissance (1972)

Members: Jon Camp, Annie Haslam, Rob Hendry, Terrence Sullivan, John Tout
Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: This was the album released by the band after their first major change in the original lineup (no original members already here). With the superb Annie Haslam (vocals), Jon Camp (bass, guitar), John Tout (keyboards), Terence Sullivan (drums). Francis Monkman plays keyboards in one (lenghty) song, ´Rajah Khan´.

Crying, laughing, loving, lying - Labi Siffre (1972)

Guests: Brian Bennett, Don Fay, Les Hurdle, Nick Ingman, Francis Monkman, Dave Richmond, Peter Robinson, Alan Skidmore, Ray Warleigh (RIP: Barry De Souza)

I can see clearly now - Johnny Nash (07/1972)

Members: John ´Rabbit´ Bundrick
Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: A very good singer, in this album he's backed by part of Bob Marley band, as well as by John ´Rabbit´ Bundrick, who writes some songs here. Francis Monkman also plays synthesizer and bass guitar along the whole album, although uncredited. CD reissue from 2011 contains 2 bonus tracks.

Friends of mine - Harvey Andrews (1973)

Guests: Roy Babbington, Mike Bailey, Terry Cox, Dave Coxhill, Jimmy Helms, Chris Karan, Phil Kenzie, Paul Keogh, Dave Mattacks, Francis Monkman, Mike Moran, Graham Preskett
Comments: He's a British artist, who started singing folk music. He has also worked with Focus. This is his 3rd album, and it includes great musicians: Paul Keogh (guitar), Graham Cooper (guitar), Roy Babbington (bass, then in Soft Machine), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Mike Moran (keyboards), Phil Kenzie (sax, later in Rod Stewart band), Graham Preskett (violin, mandolin), Terry Cox (drums, from Pentangle), Dave Mattacks (drums), Chris Karan (drums).

Surprise - Lynsey De Paul (1973)

Guests: Mike Bailey, Gary Boyle, Ray Cooper, Terry Cox, Jeff Daly, John Gustafson, Henry Lowther, Ralph McTell, Francis Monkman, Chris Rae, Frank Ricotti, Peter Robinson, Alan Skidmore, Danny Thompson, Geoff Wright (RIP: Barry De Souza, Dick Katz, Robert Kirby, Morris Pert, Johnny Van Derrick)
Comments: CD reissue contains 7 tracks.

Totally out of control - Hudson Brothers (1974)

Members: Mark Hudson
Guests: B J Cole, Davey Johnstone, Francis Monkman (RIP: Jimmy Hall)
Producer: Bernie Taupin

Hits in Hi-Fi 1 - John Keating Incorporated (1974)

Guests: Francis Monkman

John Keating conducts The Electronic Philharmonic Orchestra - John Keating (1974)

Guests: Francis Monkman

First - David Courtney (1975)

Guests: Russ Ballard, Tony Burrows, B J Cole, David Gilmour, Steve Gray, Richard Harvey, Skaila Kanga, Paul Keogh, Bruce Lynch, Francis Monkman, Mike Moran, Brian Odgers, Alan Parker, Andrew Powell, Frank Ricotti, Jean Roussel (RIP: Barry De Souza, Barry Morgan, Morris Pert)
Comments: This pianist and composer has written songs for Leo Sayer or Roger Daltrey. Here we can find: Russ Ballard (guitar), David Gilmour (guitar), Paul Keogh (guitar), Alan Parker (guitar), B.J. Cole (steel guitar), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Andrew Powell (keyboards), Jean Roussel (keyboards), Mike Moran (keyboards), Brian Odgers (bass), Bruce Lynch (bass), Richard Harvey (horns), Morris Pert (percussion), Barry De Souza (drums), Barry Morgan (drums), Tony Burrows (backing vocals) and the members of Pilot.

Space experience 2 - John Keating (1975)

Guests: Paul Keogh, Francis Monkman, Brian Odgers, Henry Spinetti (RIP: Barry De Souza)

The Last of the origins - Ofege (1975)

Guests: Francis Monkman
Comments: I think they were a band from Nigeria. The album was remixed in London with some added effects.

The Beatles tapes - The Beatles (1976)

Members: Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr (RIP: George Harrison, John Lennon)
Guests: Irvine Arditti, Helen Liebmann, Francis Monkman, Ann Odell, Graham Smith, Gavyn Wright
Producer: Martyn Ford
Comments: This is a double disc comprising interviews with the members of The Beatles. The only music appearing here doesn´t feature the group, but Francis Monkman, Ann Odell, Graham Smith and Gavyn Wright performing short fragments, all arranged and conducted by Martyn Ford.

Funky pack - C S Crew (1976)

Guests: Francis Monkman (RIP: Fred Fisher)

Tales of mystery and imagination - The Alan Parsons Project (1976)

Members: Ian Bairnson, David Pack, Alan Parsons, David Paton, Andrew Powell (RIP: Eric Woolfson)
Guests: Arthur Brown, Burleigh Drummond, Les Hurdle, Laurence Juber, John Miles, Francis Monkman, Christopher North, Kevin Peek, Darryl Runswick, Terry Sylvester, Stuart Tosh (RIP: Billy Lyall)
Comments: He was famous because of having been the engineer for Beatles and Pink Floyd. He started his succesful career as an artist, under the nickname Alan Parsons Project. It was really a duo, with Eric Woolfson (though, currently, Eric doesn't collaborates with Alan any more). Not forgetting about great orchestrations by Andrew Powell. As a famous engineer and producer, Alan called many of his friends to play and sing in his albums. This, their first album, was based on Edgar Allan Poe poems. Here, we can find: Arthur Brown (vocals), Orson Welles (narration. Yes! the actor!), Terry Sylvester (vocals, ex-Hollies), John Miles (vocals, guitar), Laurence Juber (guitar, later in Wings), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Andrew Powell (keyboards). From Pilot (Alan was Pilot's producer): Ian Bairnson (guitar), David Paton (bass), the late Billy Lyall (keyboards) and Stuart Tosh (drums). From Ambrosia (yes, also produced by Alan): David Pack (guitar), Joe Puerta (bass), Christopher North (keyboards), Burleigh Drummond (drums). Some CD reissues contain 2 bonus tracks plus a radio spot and an interview.

A Bible - a rock testament - Family of love (1977)

Guests: Hugh Burns, Ray Cooper, Doni Harvey, Tony Hymas, Brother James, Alan Jones, Dave Markee, Francis Monkman, Ann Odell, Simon Phillips, Graham Preskett, Ray Russell, Richard Studt, Paul Westwood, Gavyn Wright (RIP: Barry De Souza, Morris Pert)
Producer: Paul Buckmaster, Martyn Ford
Comments: This was a project that assembled several musicians. With Demis Roussos (vocals, from Aphrodite's Child), Hugh Burns (guitar), Ray Russell (guitar), Alan Jones (bass, from The Shadows), Dave Markee (bass), Paul Westwood (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Ann Odell (keyboards), Paul Buckmaster (keyboards), Tony Hymas (keyboards), Graham Preskett (violin), Brother James (percussion), Ray Cooper (percussion), Morris Pert (percussion), Simon Phillips (drums), Barry DeSouza (drums). Conducted and arranged by the great Martyn Ford. Recorded in 1977.

Lionheart - Kate Bush (1978)

Members: Charlie Morgan
Guests: Ian Bairnson, Stuart Elliott, Richard Harvey, David Katz, Duncan Mackay, Francis Monkman, David Paton
Producer: Andrew Powell
Comments: She has a great voice and talent. This was her second album, and although not as succesful as the 1st one, it contained great songs. Produced by Andrew Powell. With the great Ian Bairnson (guitar), David Paton (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Duncan Mackay (keyboards), Stuart Elliott (drums), Charlie Morgan (drums).

Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band - Peter Frampton & The Bee Gees (1978)

Members: Peter Frampton, Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb (RIP: Maurice Gibb)
Guests: Greg Adams, Robert Ahwai, Wilbur Bascomb, Jeff Beck, Harry Bluestone, Larry Carlton, Emilio Castillo, Clive Chaman, Alice Cooper, Ray Cooper, Dave Dowle, Victor Feldman, Martyn Ford, Mic Gillette, Ricky Hitchcock, David Hungate, Stephen ´Doc´ Kupka, Max Middleton, Francis Monkman, Paul Nicholas, David Paich, Lenny Pickett, Bernard Purdie, Ray Russell, Fred Tackett, Maurice White, Gavyn Wright (RIP: George Burns, Frankie Howerd, Jeff Porcaro, Billy Preston, Tommy Reilly)
Producer: George Martin
Comments: This was the soundtrack from the movie starring Peter Frampton and The Bee Gees. As many musical movies, it has its ups and downs, as no every performer was a real singer (Steve Martin, for example). But it has its fine moments. Originally a 2LP (my copy includes a big (& ugly) poster), it has 28 tracks, all of them written by The Beatles. Arranged and produced by George Martin, it features Billy Preston, Alice Cooper, Aerosmith or Paul Nicholas. But the great thing is when you check the credits list. With great surprises there. The regular musicians team comprises: Robert Ahwai (guitar), Peter Frampton (guitar solos), Wilbur Bascomb (bass), Max Middleton (keyboards), Bernard Purdie (drums), + Tower of Power Horn Section: Greg Adams (trumpet), Emilio Castillo (sax), Mick Gillette (trombone, trumpet), Steve Doc Kupka (sax), Lenny Pickett (sax). That is, many former Jeff Beck bandmates. And the list of featured guests is: Jeff Beck (guitar), the superb Larry Carlton (guitar), Ricky Hitchcock (guitar), Ray Russell (guitar), Fred Tackett (guitar), Clive Chaman (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Ray Cooper (percussion), Victor Feldman (percussion), and from Toto: David Hungate (bass), David Paich (keyboards) and Jeff Porcaro (drums).

Melophonia - Limelight Disco Symphony (1978)

Guests: Alan Downey, Patrick Halling, Les Hurdle, Martin Kershaw, Francis Monkman, Mike Moran, Alan Parker, Claire Torry (RIP: Vicki Brown, Barry De Souza, Kay Garner, Barry Morgan, Gerry Shury)
Technical: Chris Tsangarides

Classic rock - the second movement - The London Symphony Orchestra (1978)

Guests: Clem Cattini, Herbie Flowers, Martyn Ford, Tristan Fry, Tony Hymas, Paul Keogh, Jim Lawless, Dave Lawson, Francis Monkman, Ann Odell, Garth Watt-Roy (RIP: Barry De Souza, Andrew Pryce Jackman)
Comments: Recorded in 1978.

How do you feel - Ofege (1978)

Guests: Kofi Ayivor, Francis Monkman

Fire in Soweto (MAXI) - Sonny Okosun (1978)

Guests: Gaspar Lawal, Francis Monkman (RIP: Mac Tontoh)
Technical: Haydn Bendall, John Leckie

Don´t talk back - Jim Rafferty (1978)

Guests: Don Airey, Madeline Bell, Hugh Burns, Rod Clements, B J Cole, Mel Collins, Herbie Flowers, Delisle Harper, John James, Laurence Juber, Dave Mattacks, Chris Mercer, Francis Monkman, Lynton Naiff, Rab Noakes, Brian Odgers, Graham Preskett, Tim Renwick, Henry Spinetti, Gary Taylor, Peter Van Hooke, Pete Wingfield, Pick Withers (RIP: Kay Garner, Barry Morgan, Gerry Rafferty)
Comments: He is Gerry Rafferty's brother. Lots of great musicians in this album, apart from Jim & Gerry: Madeline Bell (vocals), Kay Garner (vocals), Gerry Rafferty (guitar), Hughie Burns (guitar), Tim Renwick (guitar), Laurence Juber (guitar, from Wings), B.J. Cole (steel guitar, from Cochise), Gary Taylor (bass), Herbie Flowers (bass), Rod Clements (bass), DeLisle Harper (bass), Rab Noakes (bass), Brian Odgers (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Pete Wingfield (keyboards), Don Airey (keyboards), Chris Mercer (sax), Mel Collins (sax), Graham Preskett (violin, keyboards), Pick Withers (drums, from Dire Straits), Dave Mattacks (drums), Barry Morgan (drums), Henry Spinetti (drums) and Peter Van Hooke (drums).

...And how! - Blonde on blonde (1979)

Guests: Stephanie DeSykes, Ken Freeman, Nigel Jenkins, Alan Jones, Dave Lawson, Dave Markee, Francis Monkman, Lynton Naiff, Chris Rae, Chris Rainbow, Frank Ricotti, Jerome Rimson, Claire Torry, Peter Van Hooke (RIP: Graham Jarvis)
Producer: Jon Pope
Comments: Blonde on Blonde were a female duo: Nina Carter and Frankie Ward. Great musicians list: Nigel Jenkins (guitar), Alan Jones (bass), Dave Markee (bass), Jerome Rimson (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Dave Lawson (keyboards), Frank Ricotti (percussion), Pete Van Hooke (drums), Graham Jarvis (drums), and on backing vocals: Chris Rainbow, Stephanie De Sykes and Claire Terry. It includes a rendition of Led Zeppelin's ´Whole lotta love´ (it was released as a single, I also have it!), and one song, ´Woman is free´, was from the soundtrack of a movie called Golden lady. Recorded in the summer of 1979 in London.

Per-spek-tiv - Louis Clark (1979)

Members: Louis Clark
Guests: Ricky Hitchcock, Francis Monkman, Kevin Peek, Nick Pentelow, Simon Phillips, Frank Ricotti, Robyn Robbins, John Tout, Peter Van Hooke, Roy Wood (RIP: Graham Todd)
Comments: He's a great arranger and orchestra conductor, also plays keyboards. First time I heard of him was in the ELO albums. This album includes: Kevin Peek (guitar), Ricky Hitchcock (guitar), the great Roy Wood (playing sitar!), Francis Monkman (keyboards), John Tout (keyboards, from Renaissance), Nick Pentelow (sax), Frank Ricotti (percussion), Simon Phillips (drums), Pete Van Hooke (drums).

The Girl is back - Dana (1979)

Guests: Mo Foster, Tristan Fry, Ricky Hitchcock, Paul Keogh, Francis Monkman, Graham Preskett, Frank Ricotti, Tony Rivers, Rod Temperton, Peter Van Hooke (RIP: Stu Calver, Graham Jarvis, Barry Morgan)

Crusader - Chris De Burgh (1979)

Members: Chris De Burgh
Guests: Ian Bairnson, Stuart Elliott, Skaila Kanga, Chris Laurence, Francis Monkman, Mike Moran, David Paton, Andrew Powell
Comments: Great singer. With Ian Bairnson (guitar), Chris Laurence (bass), David Paton (bass), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Andrew Powell (keyboards), Mike Moran (keyboards), Stuart Elliott (drums).

Imperial wizard - David Essex (1979)

Members: David Essex, Ken Freeman, Phil Palmer, Alan Wakeman (RIP: Barry De Souza)
Guests: Ray Cooper, Herbie Flowers, Kenny Jones, Francis Monkman, Trevor Morais, Chris Spedding
Producer: Mike Batt

Cosmopolitan wave - Estrak Lancios (1979)

Guests: Les Hurdle, Francis Monkman, Alan Parker (RIP: Barry Morgan)
Technical: Chris Tsangarides

Life´s a party - The Michael Zager Band (1979)

Guests: Sandford Allen, Rubens Bassini, Al Brown, Francisco Centeno, Burt Collins, Ray Cooper, Ronnie Cuber, Stephanie DeSykes, Tony Fisher, John Gatchell, Ricky Hitchcock, David Horler, Cissy Houston, Whitney Houston, David Katz, Paul Keogh, Stevie Lange, Henry Lowther, Dolette McDonald, Bob Millikan, Chas Mills, Jeff Mironov, Tom Mitchell, Francis Monkman, Rob Mounsey, Keith O´Quinn, John Rooke, Steve Saunders, Allan Schwartzberg, Maeretha Stewart, Kenny Wheeler (RIP: Kay Garner, Barry Morgan)

Mr Money - Zoot Money (1980)

Members: Zoot Money
Guests: Les Davidson, Martin Drover, Francis Monkman, Jim Mullen, Paul Robinson, Nick South, Kasim Sulton (RIP: Vicki Brown, Dick Morrissey)
Producer: Jim Diamond

The Single factor - Camel (1982)

Members: Andy Latimer, David Paton, Chris Rainbow (RIP: Peter Bardens)
Guests: Duncan Mackay, Dave Mattacks, Francis Monkman, Anthony Phillips, Simon Phillips (RIP: Graham Jarvis)
Producer: Haydn Bendall
Comments: A superb band. Andy Latimer, his leader and guitarist, plays in one of Francis solo albums. This album is produced by Tony Clark and Haydn Bendall, who also were Sky's producers. The list of musicians is very interesting: Andy Latimer (guitar, vocals, flute), Chris Rainbow (vocals), the fantastic Anthony Phillips (he was the original guitarist in Genesis), Peter Bardens (keyboards), Duncan Mackay (keyboards), David Paton (bass), Simon Phillips (drums), Dave Mattacks (drums), Graham Jarvis (drums). Francis Monkman plays in one song.

Italian recorder concertos - Richard Harvey (1982)

Members: Richard Harvey
Guests: Monica Huggett, Francis Monkman

Infinite fusion - Rajesh (1982)

Guests: Robert Ahwai, Ranjit Barot, Ray Cooper, Les Davidson, Harold Fisher, Ken Freeman, DeLisle Harper, Zakir Hussain, Francis Monkman, Del Newman, Brian Odgers, Kevin Peek, Simon Phillips, Pete Wingfield (RIP: Gordon Beck, Isaac Guillory)

Symphonic rock - the British invasion - The London Symphony Orchestra (1997)

Guests: Clem Cattini, Herbie Flowers, Martyn Ford, Tristan Fry, Nick Glennie-Smith, Richard Harvey, Ricky Hitchcock, Skaila Kanga, Paul Keogh, Gary Kettel, Jim Lawless, Dave Lawson, Francis Monkman, Jo Partridge, Kevin Peek, Graham Preskett, Ray Russell, Garth Watt-Roy (RIP: Barry De Souza, Andrew Pryce Jackman, Graham Jarvis, Barry Morgan, Graham Todd)

Symphonic rock - American classics - The London Symphony Orchestra (1997)

Guests: Clem Cattini, Louis Clark, Herbie Flowers, Tristan Fry, Richard Harvey, Skaila Kanga, Paul Keogh, Gary Kettel, Peter Knight, Jim Lawless, Francis Monkman, Ann Odell, Jo Partridge, Ray Russell, Garth Watt-Roy (RIP: Barry De Souza, Andrew Pryce Jackman, Barry Morgan, Graham Todd)

Symphonic rock - the British invasion volume 2 - The London Symphony Orchestra (02/1998)

Guests: Clem Cattini, Louis Clark, Herbie Flowers, Martyn Ford, Tristan Fry, Richard Harvey, Paul Keogh, Gary Kettel, Peter Knight, Jim Lawless, Francis Monkman, Ann Odell, Jo Partridge, Kevin Peek, Graham Preskett, Raf Ravenscroft, Ray Russell, Garth Watt-Roy (RIP: Barry De Souza, Andrew Pryce Jackman, Graham Jarvis, Barry Morgan, Graham Todd)

George Martin presents The Medici Quartet - The Medici Quartet ( - )

Guests: Francis Monkman, Barbara Thompson, John Williams (RIP: Johnny Dankworth)
Producer: George Martin

COMPILATIONS (SESSIONS) (2 credits)

This woman´s work - Kate Bush (10/1998)

Members: Preston Heyman, Kevin McAlea (RIP: Alan Murphy)
Guests: Jimmy Bain, Ian Bairnson, Stuart Elliott, Larry Fast, John Giblin, David Gilmour, Roy Harper, David Katz, Paul Keogh, Dave Lawson, Bruce Lynch, Duncan Mackay, Max Middleton, Francis Monkman, Mike Moran, David Paton, Eberhard Weber (RIP: Barry De Souza, Michael Kamen, Mick Karn, Morris Pert)
Technical: Haydn Bendall
Comments: 8CD boxset comprising Kate´s first 6 albums plus 2 CDs of unreleased material.

Come to the sabbat - the anthology - Black Widow (2003)

Members: Clive Jones
Guests: Francis Monkman

QUESTIONS:

01. Francis played in some album by Paul Nicholas. Does anybody know in which one?

02. Was the Urdance project ever released? Was Andrew Powell also involved?

03. In November 1975, Gary Windo played in BBC TV with Francis Monkman, Hugh Hopper and C. Powell. Was he maybe Cozy Powell?

04. Francis worked with arranger and producer Johnny Galvao in the 70s, but don´t know if those tracks have been released.

05. Francis plays in a covers album by singer B J Arnau. Is the album the self-titled one, B J Arnau, produced by Martyn Ford?

06. Francis also worked with a French orchestra director, but don´t know who he is. Any clue?

07. Does Francis play in the soundtracks for Superman II or some James Bond movies?

RELATED WEBSITE LINKS: 17

Official site(s) - tell them you saw the link here:

From the always interesting Alex's Picks (by Alex Gitlin), we have:

From the superb site Knights in Blue Denim: The British Blues Scene '68 - '70 (by Christer Fridhammar & Vanja), we have:

Zoot Money

From the fantastic The British Sound blog (by Bruno Ceriotti), we have rock family trees about:

Bee Gees

Wikipedia doesn´t want to include links to this website, but I won´t do the same with them. So, from the great Wikipedia, we have:

Assorted links:

Superb interview with Francis Monkman at the Calyx website (by Aymeric Leroy)
Great interview with Francis Monkman at the Procol Harum website
Curved Air site (very nice! check it out!!) (by Tony Mortlock)

RELATED VIDEO LINKS: 21
Disclaimer: I don´t own or upload any of the videos linked here. I just include links to live videos that are already available, in order to show the work of this musician. Anyway, if someone feels that some link shouldn't be included, please write me at the email address shown below. And if you know of more videos featuring Francis Monkman, please, also write me with the link.

Curved Air - Concert

(Resolution: 720)

(HQ)

Curved Air - Vivaldi

(Resolution: 480)

Curved Air - It Happened Today

(Resolution: 480)

Curved Air - Propositions

(Resolution: 480)

Curved Air - Back Street Luv

(Resolution: 480)

Curved Air - Melinda (More Or Less)

(Resolution: 360)

Curved Air - Phantasmagoria

(Resolution: 720)

(HQ)

Curved Air - Marie Antoinette

(Resolution: 480)

Curved Air - Vivaldi

(Resolution: 480)

Curved Air - Propositions

(Resolution: 480)

Sky - Tocatta

(Resolution: 480)

Sky - Westway

(Resolution: 360)

Sky - Danza

(Resolution: 360)

Sky - Dance Of The Little Fairies

(Resolution: 480)

Sky - Carillon

(Resolution: 360)

Sky - Tocatta

(Resolution: 480)

Sky - Concert

(Resolution: 480)

Sky - Cannonball

(Resolution: 360)

Sky - Cavatina

(Resolution: 360)

Francis Monkman - Prophet 5 Demonstration

(Resolution: 360)

Francis Monkman - Yamaha DX7 Demonstration

(Resolution: 360)

THANKS:

Very Special Thanks to:

Francis Monkman: for everything: patience, kindness, help and support. And exquisite music! (1999 to 2011).

Clive Jones: for telling me that Francis Monkman appears uncredited in his Black Widow album Black Widow III (2003).

Hermann Braunschmidt: for his incredible, wonderful presents (1999).

Special Thanks to:

Alex Gitlin: my friend, for lots of scans and many other things (1999).

Boris Shnitzer: my friend, for info and backup (1999).

Tony Mortlock: for his kind messages and well as for some scans (check his lovely Curved Air site!) (1999).

Jon Hinchliffe: for support and valuable gifts (1999).

Age Rotshuizen: for giving me some info on the Gary Windo sessions with Francis (1999).

Osamu Sakamoto: for info on Francis (1999).

John H Warburg: for lots of biographical infos on Curved Air members (2011).

Thanks to:

Chris Drake: for his messages, as well as for signing my old guestbook (2000).

Bob Oakley: for signing my old guestbook (1999).

Wim Bardoel: for his message in my old guestbook (1999).

Miner Gleason: for signing my old guestbook (1999).

Susan: for her message in my new guestbook (2002).

Kirk: for offering a scan of David Courtney album (2002).

Lee Jenkinson: for his message (2004).

Richard Szydlowski: for his very kind message (2002).

mavmaramis: for info on the Energism album (2002).

Diego Zanti: for info on Alan Sorrenti and help with a bit of Italian (1999).

Rune Moe: for info on Francis touring with The Shadows (2001).

Martin: for his kind message (2002).

Ian Glendinning: for his kind message (2001).

Greg Rowe: for offering help with Al Stewart live lineups (2002).

David Boddy: for his message (1999).

WHAT'S NEW:

14/December/2011 - Page added to the blog.
03/January/1999 - Original page written by me (in the old site).

RELATED MUSICIANS:

Francis Monkman mostly worked with these musicians: (name + number of credits)
Barry De Souza (16)
Tristan Fry (16)
Kevin Peek (16)
Frank Ricotti (16)
Herbie Flowers (15)
Darryl Way (15)
Steve Gray (14)
Florian Pilkington Miksa (13)
Sonja Kristina (12)
Les Hurdle (11)
Paul Keogh (11)

Page created by Miguel Terol on: 03/January/1999 - Last modified on: 14/December/2011. If you want to contribute with info, please write to: molympus1@gmail.com

Please, note than you can check the indexes (musicians, bands, obituaries) at the top of this page.

The Musicians' Olympus

Wednesday, 14 December 2011

Francis Monkman (keyboards)

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