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Matching Mole

Matching Mole was a short-lived British progressive rock band formed in October 1971 by drummer and vocalist Robert Wyatt after his departure from the influential group Soft Machine, with the band's name derived as a pun on the French translation "machine molle" of Soft Machine.^[1]^[2] The group, associated with the Canterbury scene of jazz-influenced progressive rock, featured Wyatt on drums and vocals alongside guitarist Phil Miller, bassist Bill MacCormick, and organist Dave Sinclair (formerly of Caravan), who left after the debut album and was replaced by keyboardist Dave MacRae.^[1]^[2] The band's music blended jazz improvisation, psychedelic elements, and Wyatt's idiosyncratic songwriting, exemplified by the poignant breakup ballad "O'Caroline" from their self-titled debut album released in 1972 on CBS Records.^[3] Their second and final studio album, Matching Mole's Little Red Record (also 1972), was produced by Robert Fripp of King Crimson and showcased evolving compositions like "Part of the Dance," reflecting the band's brief but creative peak amid frequent lineup shifts and touring.^[1] Wyatt disbanded the group in late September 1972, following the completion of their European tour and the recording of the second album (released later that year), citing the demands of leadership, though archival live recordings such as March (2001) and Smoke Signals (2001) later highlighted their energetic performances during the era.^[1]^[4] Matching Mole's output remains a cult favorite in progressive rock circles, influencing the Canterbury sound through its fusion of whimsy, technical prowess, and emotional depth.^[3]

Formation and Early Development

Origins in the Canterbury Scene

The Canterbury scene emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a loose-knit collective of musicians centered in Canterbury, Kent, England, characterized by a blend of jazz-rock fusion, improvisation, and psychedelic elements that prioritized collaborative experimentation over rigid structures.^[5] This movement drew from local bands like the Wilde Flowers, which served as an incubator for talents who would define the sound through fluid lineups and a shared emphasis on melodic invention and rhythmic complexity.^[6] Influenced by the town's provincial yet vibrant music community, the scene fostered acts that integrated free jazz improvisation with rock songcraft, creating a distinctive British progressive style distinct from more bombastic contemporaries.^[7] Robert Wyatt played a pivotal role in the Canterbury scene as the drummer and lead vocalist of Soft Machine, which he co-founded in mid-1966 alongside Kevin Ayers, Daevid Allen, and Mike Ratledge.^[8] From 1966 to 1971, Wyatt contributed to the band's evolution from psychedelic rock to avant-garde jazz fusion, notably on albums like Third (1970), where his vocal compositions such as "Moon in June" highlighted his growing interest in songwriting and personal expression amid the group's increasingly instrumental focus.^[9] This shift underscored Wyatt's desire for melodic and lyrical elements, contrasting with Soft Machine's direction toward extended improvisations led by keyboardist Mike Ratledge and bassist Hugh Hopper.^[10] Wyatt departed Soft Machine in August 1971 following creative differences over the band's musical direction, which had marginalized his vocal and compositional contributions in favor of pure jazz exploration.^[8] His solo debut, The End of an Ear (recorded August 1970 and released in 1970), bridged this transition by featuring Wyatt's experimental songwriting with contributions from Soft Machine members and other Canterbury affiliates, signaling his intent to pursue more song-oriented projects.^[11] In late 1971, shortly after leaving, Wyatt initiated rehearsals with musicians from the Canterbury network, including connections to Caravan and Quiet Sun, laying the groundwork for his next ensemble; notably, Phil Miller from Delivery and Bill MacCormick from Quiet Sun brought their experience to these early sessions.^[12]

Naming and Initial Lineup

Matching Mole was officially formed in October 1971 in Canterbury, England, by drummer and vocalist Robert Wyatt shortly after his departure from Soft Machine.^[13] The band's name originated as a pun on "Machine Molle," the French translation of "Soft Machine," reflecting Wyatt's recent history with that group.^[13] The initial lineup featured Wyatt on drums, vocals, and occasional keyboards, alongside guitarist Phil Miller, who came from the band Delivery; bassist Bill MacCormick, formerly of Quiet Sun; and keyboardist Dave Sinclair, previously with Caravan.^[14] This configuration drew from the interconnected Canterbury music scene, bringing together musicians familiar with improvisational and jazz-influenced approaches.^[15] The group began with informal rehearsals in the basement of Wyatt's flat in Ladbroke Grove, London, where they honed their material on a limited budget and established their alignment with progressive rock and the Canterbury sound.^[16] These early sessions focused on developing a collective dynamic, setting the stage for the band's short-lived but influential tenure.^[17]

Career Trajectory

Debut Album and Initial Tours

The recording sessions for Matching Mole's eponymous debut album commenced in late 1971 at CBS Studios in London, with principal tracking occurring between December 1971 and January 1972, followed by mixing at Nova Studios in February 1972. The band self-produced the effort, capturing a blend of structured songs and improvisational pieces that reflected Robert Wyatt's vision as the group's founder and primary composer. The original lineup—featuring Wyatt on drums and vocals, Phil Miller on guitar, Dave Sinclair on keyboards, and Bill MacCormick on bass—remained stable throughout the recording process, allowing for cohesive interplay rooted in the Canterbury scene's jazz-rock ethos.^[17]^[18] Released on April 14, 1972, by CBS Records in the UK, the album showcased Wyatt's distinctive songwriting, with standout tracks such as "O Caroline"—a melodic tribute penned by Sinclair—and the introspective "Signed Curtain," which highlighted the band's whimsical yet probing lyrical themes amid experimental instrumentation. Running approximately 40 minutes, the record balanced Wyatt's vulnerable vocals and drumming with the ensemble's fluid dynamics, establishing Matching Mole as a vehicle for his post-Soft Machine explorations.^[17]^[18] Following the album's completion, the band undertook initial UK tours in spring 1972 to promote it, including a high-profile support slot for John Mayall at London's Royal Festival Hall on April 3. These performances, spanning venues across England from March through late April, featured the core quartet delivering material from the debut alongside improvisations, with Wyatt serving as both bandleader and central performer on stage. The tour solidified the group's live presence in the progressive rock circuit, building momentum ahead of summer festival appearances, such as their set at the Reading Festival on August 13. Lineup cohesion persisted during this phase, though Sinclair departed by late February, with Dave MacRae assuming keyboards for subsequent outings.^[17]^[19]

Second Album and European Tour

Following the moderate success of their debut album earlier in the year, which provided a platform for further exploration, Matching Mole entered CBS Studios in London during August 1972 to record their second album, Matching Mole's Little Red Record.^[17] The sessions took place over several days from August 14–16, 25, and 29–31, with mixing completed on August 21–22 at the same facility.^[17] Produced by Robert Fripp of King Crimson, the album marked a shift toward more experimental compositions compared to the debut, incorporating extended improvisational elements in tracks such as the jazz-inflected "Brandy as in Benj.," which highlighted the band's instrumental interplay.^[20]^[21] The core lineup featured Robert Wyatt on drums and vocals, Phil Miller on guitar, Bill MacCormick on bass, and Dave MacRae on keyboards, with Brian Eno contributing VCS3 synthesizer to the track "Gloria Gloom."^[22] Released in November 1972 on CBS Records, Little Red Record captured the band's evolving sound within the Canterbury scene, blending progressive rock with avant-garde jazz influences under Fripp's guidance, which emphasized atmospheric textures and spontaneous arrangements.^[20]^[21] The album's title playfully referenced Mao Zedong's Little Red Book, reflecting Wyatt's interest in political and cultural commentary through music.^[23] Despite the creative advancements, the recording process occurred amid lineup changes, as Dave Sinclair had departed in late February 1972 following an earlier European outing, prompting MacRae's full integration and a move toward freer, less structured material.^[17]^[24] In parallel with these sessions, Matching Mole embarked on an extensive European tour spanning July to September 1972, performing across Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.^[17] Key dates included appearances at the Euro Pop Festival in Ostend on July 22 and the Bilzen Pop Festival on August 18, both in Belgium, followed by shows in Montbéliard, France, on September 9.^[17] The tour's later leg from September 15–22 involved supporting Soft Machine on multiple continental dates, exposing the band to larger audiences but also amplifying logistical strains such as travel disruptions and varying venue setups common to progressive rock circuits of the era.^[17] Audience reception was mixed, with enthusiastic responses in jazz-leaning crowds contrasted by challenges in connecting with broader rock festival attendees unfamiliar with the band's improvisational style.^[25] These pressures contributed to growing internal tensions within the group, exacerbated by Wyatt's increasing disillusionment with band leadership and the demands of touring.^[4] Sinclair's earlier exit in mid-tour earlier that year had already shifted dynamics, fostering a sense of instability as the quartet navigated creative differences and exhaustion.^[17] Upon completing the European tour in late September 1972, Matching Mole announced their disbandment, effectively ending the original configuration as Wyatt sought new directions in his musical career.^[17]^[4]

Disbandment and Brief 1973 Reformation

Matching Mole officially disbanded in September 1972 following the completion of their second album and a supporting European tour, primarily due to internal leadership challenges, interpersonal tensions exacerbated by alcohol consumption, and logistical issues with equipment.^[13] Robert Wyatt, the band's founder and leader, cited discomfort with both participating in and directing a group dynamic, stating, “I found there’s two things I wasn’t being very good at. One was being in somebody else’s band, and the other was running my own band. I couldn’t work for anybody else, and I wasn’t comfortable with anybody else working for me.”^[26] These factors, combined with Wyatt's growing interest in pursuing independent solo projects, led to the group's dissolution shortly after their October 1972 activities.^[26] In early 1973, Wyatt attempted a brief reformation of Matching Mole with a revised lineup, retaining bassist Bill MacCormick while adding jazz saxophonist Gary Windo and keyboardist Francis Monkman (formerly of Curved Air) to replace departing members and refresh the sound.^[13] The new configuration underwent limited rehearsals in May but never progressed to full recording or touring commitments, as plans for a third album were derailed before materialization.^[13] Band activities ceased definitively after Wyatt's accident on June 1, 1973, when he fell from a fourth-floor window at a party in a London flat in Maida Vale, suffering a spinal injury that resulted in paraplegia and confinement to a wheelchair.^[27]^[28] The incident, occurring while Wyatt was intoxicated, ended his ability to perform as a drummer and halted any further Matching Mole endeavors.^[27] Following recovery, Wyatt transitioned to a solo career, releasing his debut album Rock Bottom in July 1974, which incorporated material composed prior to the accident.^[28] Meanwhile, core members like guitarist Phil Miller moved on to other Canterbury scene projects, including the formation of Hatfield and the North.^[29]

Personnel

Core Members

Matching Mole's core members were drawn from the Canterbury scene, a loose collective of musicians known for their improvisational and jazz-influenced progressive rock.^[30] Robert Wyatt founded the band in 1971 after departing Soft Machine, where he had served as drummer and occasional vocalist since 1967; prior to that, he was a member of the Wilde Flowers, an early Canterbury group that also featured future Soft Machine and Caravan members.^[31]^[32] In Matching Mole, Wyatt handled drums and lead vocals through 1973, contributing most of the songwriting and shaping the band's eclectic sound.^[31] A June 1973 accident, in which Wyatt fell from a fourth-floor window and became paralyzed from the waist down, ended his drumming career and shifted his focus to vocals and composition in subsequent projects.^[33] Phil Miller served as the band's guitarist from 1971 to 1973, providing intricate and melodic lines that complemented Wyatt's rhythms.^[34] Before joining Matching Mole, Miller had played in Delivery, a short-lived Canterbury outfit formed in 1966 that backed blues artists at venues like Ronnie Scott's.^[30] After Matching Mole's initial disbandment, Miller co-founded Hatfield and the North in 1973 with keyboardist Dave Stewart, and later contributed to National Health, extending his influence in the Canterbury jazz-rock sphere through the 1970s.^[30]^[35] Bill MacCormick played bass for Matching Mole from 1971 to 1972, anchoring the rhythm section with a solid yet flexible style suited to the band's improvisations.^[34] He came from Quiet Sun, a Dulwich College-based group he co-founded in 1967 with guitarist Phil Manzanera and drummer Charles Hayward, which recorded demos but disbanded in 1971 due to stalled progress.^[25] MacCormick's tenure ended with the band's 1972 disbandment after a European tour, after which he pursued solo endeavors, including work with 801 and later writing and political activities.^[25] Dave Sinclair contributed keyboards from 1971 to mid-1972, bringing melodic organ and piano textures from his Caravan background.^[34] Sinclair had been a founding member of Caravan since 1968, playing on their first three albums and developing a signature Canterbury organ sound by In the Land of Grey and Pink (1971).^[24] He departed Matching Mole in March 1972 following a European tour, citing discomfort with the group's jazz-oriented improvisation as a stylistic mismatch with his preferences.^[24]

Guest and Replacement Contributors

Matching Mole featured several guest and replacement contributors throughout its brief tenure, providing specialized instrumentation and filling key roles during lineup changes and recordings. Dave MacRae, a New Zealand-born jazz keyboardist, initially appeared as a guest on the band's 1972 debut album Matching Mole, contributing electric piano on tracks such as "Beer as in Balding" and "Signed Curtain". He replaced Dave Sinclair as the primary keyboardist for the 1972 album Matching Mole's Little Red Record and subsequent live performances through early 1973, bringing a more improvisational jazz sensibility to the group's sound. MacRae also participated in the band's aborted 1973 reformation sessions before Robert Wyatt's accident halted activities.^[36]^[34]^[37] Gary Windo, an English-born saxophonist known for his work in jazz and progressive contexts, served as a guest on Matching Mole's Little Red Record, adding tenor saxophone to several tracks including "Smoke Signals" and "Zen". His contributions infused the album with American-influenced free jazz elements, complementing the band's Canterbury roots during its 1972 European tour phase. Windo was later slated to join the core lineup for a planned third album in 1973 alongside Wyatt, Bill MacCormick, and Francis Monkman, but this never materialized due to Wyatt's injury.^[38]^[39]^[20] Francis Monkman, a keyboardist formerly of Curved Air, briefly joined as a replacement during Matching Mole's short-lived 1973 reformation, providing keyboards for rehearsals and a planned BBC session. His involvement was limited to this preparatory period in May-June 1973, emphasizing classical and progressive textures before the band's dissolution following Wyatt's paralysis.^[13]^[40]^[41] Other minor guests included Geoff Leigh, a multi-instrumentalist from Henry Cow, who contributed flute and tenor saxophone to the debut album Matching Mole on tracks like "O Caroline" and "Beer as in Balding", adding avant-garde wind elements to the early sessions. Leigh's role was confined to these 1971-1972 recordings without further involvement.^[36]

Musical Style and Reception

Key Characteristics and Influences

Matching Mole's music exemplified a distinctive fusion of progressive rock, jazz improvisation, and pop songwriting, rooted in the Canterbury scene's experimental ethos. The band's sound emphasized structured compositions that incorporated free-form jazz elements, creating a balance between accessibility and avant-garde exploration. Central to this was Robert Wyatt's vulnerable, emotive vocals, often delivered in a fragile, wispy tone that conveyed intimacy and introspection, paired with whimsical, surreal lyrics that infused the material with humor and poetic abstraction.^[42]^[5]^[43] The band's influences drew heavily from the Canterbury scene, particularly Soft Machine's experimental jazz-rock framework, which Wyatt carried forward from his time as a founding member, and Caravan's melodic, whimsical approach, reflected through keyboardist Dave Sinclair's contributions. This blend allowed Matching Mole to navigate between intricate rhythmic complexities and more tuneful, song-oriented structures, with echoes of early jazz-rock pioneers shaping their improvisational tendencies. Wyatt's affinity for broader progressive currents further enriched the palette, though the core remained tied to Canterbury's collaborative, scene-driven innovation.^[5]^[16]^[34] Instrumentally, Matching Mole showcased fluid interplay among its members, highlighted by Phil Miller's agile, lyrical guitar lines that wove through jazz-inflected solos and rock-driven riffs. Dave Sinclair and later Dave MacRae provided lush organ and piano textures, adding atmospheric depth and harmonic richness to the arrangements, while Bill MacCormick's bass grooves anchored the rhythm section with steady, propulsive energy that supported both tight ensemble passages and extended improvisations. This collective dynamic fostered a sense of organic dialogue, where individual expressions enhanced the group's cohesive yet unpredictable sound.^[43]^[42]^[16] The band's musical evolution was evident across their brief output, transitioning from the relatively structured, Wyatt-dominated songs on their 1972 debut album—featuring a mix of vocal-led pop-jazz hybrids and fusion instrumentals—to the looser, more collaborative jams on their second album, Matching Mole's Little Red Record, where jazz-fueled improvisation took precedence, reducing song-oriented ballads in favor of freer, group-driven explorations. This shift underscored a deepening commitment to avant-garde jazz-rock, produced by Robert Fripp, and highlighted the ensemble's growing emphasis on spontaneous interplay over preconceived forms.^[43]^[44]^[42]

Critical and Commercial Response

Upon its release in 1972, Matching Mole's self-titled debut album garnered positive notices for the charm of Robert Wyatt's vocals and songwriting, particularly on tracks like "O'Caroline," which blended melodic accessibility with Canterbury scene whimsy.^[45] Reviewers highlighted the appealing, mellow opening songs before transitioning to jazzier, fusion-inflected instrumentals, though the album was often described as uneven or patchy in structure, mixing pop sensibilities with more experimental workouts in a manner that felt disjointed to some.^[46] Commercially, it achieved limited success, not entering the UK charts and reflecting the band's niche appeal within progressive rock circles.^[34] The follow-up, Matching Mole's Little Red Record (1972), drew mixed responses for its bolder experimental leanings, shifting away from the debut's naive pop-rock elements toward jazz-oriented improvisation and spoken-word passages, which reduced its accessibility for broader audiences.^[20] Critics noted the album's diversity in songwriting and its quintessential Canterbury sound but found it more challenging and acquired-taste material compared to the relatively approachable first record, contributing to even lower commercial impact amid the band's brief existence.^[47]^[48] In retrospect, Matching Mole has earned acclaim as an influential act in progressive and Canterbury scene lore, with both studio albums praised as cult essentials for their innovative fusion of jazz, rock, and whimsy, fostering a dedicated following among fans of the genre.^[49] Reissues in the 2000s, including expanded editions and live recordings by labels like Cuneiform and Hux, have enhanced their recognition, introducing the band's work to new listeners while underscoring Wyatt's pivotal role in the scene, along with more recent vinyl reissues such as the 2024 expanded edition of the debut album and the 2025 Record Store Day edition of Little Red Record.^[1]^[50]^[51] Overall commercial performance remained constrained by the group's short lifespan of little over a year and its underground positioning, resulting in modest sales that belied its artistic significance.^[34]

Discography

Studio Albums

Matching Mole's debut studio album, titled Matching Mole, was released in April 1972 on the CBS label. Recorded primarily at CBS Studios in London between December 1971 and January 1972, with mixing completed at Nova Sound Studios in February, the album originated as solo demos by Robert Wyatt before the full band—featuring Wyatt on drums and vocals, Phil Miller on guitar, Bill MacCormick on bass, and Dave Sinclair on keyboards—joined the sessions. Produced by the band itself, the 37-minute LP comprises eight tracks that blend jazz-rock improvisation with Wyatt's idiosyncratic songwriting, including standout pieces like "O Caroline" (written by Sinclair and Wyatt) and the playful "Instant Pussy."^[18]^[1]^[52] The band's second and final studio album, Matching Mole's Little Red Record, followed in November 1972, also on CBS. Clocking in at around 40 minutes, it features eight tracks recorded during the summer of 1972 at CBS Studios in London and marks a more experimental turn, incorporating surreal spoken-word elements and avant-garde textures. Produced by Robert Fripp of King Crimson, the sessions highlighted the evolving lineup of Wyatt, Miller, MacCormick, and Dave MacRae on keyboards, with guest contributions from Brian Eno on synthesizer for "Gloria Gloom" and Julie Christie providing additional vocals on "Nan True's Hole." Notable tracks include the rhythmic "Brandy as in Benj" and the atmospheric "Smoke Signal," reflecting the band's shift toward looser, more conceptual structures.^[38]^[53]^[20]

Live Albums and Compilations

The posthumous live albums and compilations of Matching Mole primarily draw from the band's 1972 European performances and radio sessions, offering fans expanded access to their brief but influential output during the Canterbury scene era. These releases, emerging in the 1990s and 2000s, were handled by specialty labels focused on archival prog and jazz-rock material, often featuring remastering to enhance audio quality from original tapes. None introduce material recorded after the band's 1973 reformation attempt, preserving the core lineup's sound from their active period. The earliest such release, BBC Radio 1 Live in Concert (1994), captures a July 27, 1972, session at London's Paris Theatre, featuring five tracks including "Instant Pussy," "Lything and Gracing," "Marchides," "Part of the Dance," and "Brandy as in Benge." Issued by Windsong International in collaboration with BBC Transcription Services, it runs approximately 30 minutes and highlights the band's improvisational jazz-rock style in a radio-friendly format.^[54] In 2001, Cuneiform Records released Smoke Signals, a compilation of rare tracks and outtakes spanning studio sessions and live snippets from 1971–1972, including "Intro," "March Ides (I)," "Smoke Rings," "Nan True's Hole," and "Brandy as in Benji." Clocking in at 56 minutes across 11 pieces, it serves as an archival deep dive into unreleased material, emphasizing Wyatt's vocal eccentricities and the ensemble's textural explorations without drawing from later performances.^[55] The 2002 album March, also on Cuneiform, presents a live recording from the band's European tour in March 1972, shortly after Dave MacRae joined on keyboards, with tracks such as "March," "Instant Pussy," "Smoke Signals," "Part of the Dance," and "No 'Alf Measures." Spanning 48 minutes, it documents their evolving repertoire in a concert setting across unspecified European venues, capturing the quartet's fusion of prog improvisation and melodic introspection.^[56] Further radio-focused compilations followed, including On the Radio (2006) from Hux Records, which remasters five BBC and other radio sessions from 1972, featuring extended medleys like "Marchides / Instant Pussy / Smoke Signal" and "Lithing and Gracing." Running 43 minutes, it improves upon earlier Windsong editions with enhanced clarity, compiling no post-1973 content and underscoring the band's radio prowess.^[57] A Japan-exclusive release, Live at the BBC 1972 (2013) on B13 Records, offers a limited-edition vinyl of BBC sessions from that year, including "Marchides / Instant Pussy / Smoke Signal," "Immediate Kitten," and "Part of the Dance." This 30-minute LP, pressed in small quantities, reiterates familiar material without new archival finds, targeting international collectors interested in the band's broadcast legacy.^[58]

Singles

Matching Mole's discography includes only one official single released during the band's active years. The 7-inch single "O Caroline" / "Signed Curtain" was issued in June 1972 on CBS Records (catalogue S 8101) in the UK, serving as the lead promotional release from their self-titled debut album.^[59] The A-side, "O Caroline," features music composed by keyboardist Dave Sinclair with lyrics penned by vocalist Robert Wyatt, forming a melancholic tribute to Wyatt's recent breakup with artist and activist Caroline Coon.^[60]^[23] The B-side, "Signed Curtain," is an edited version of a Wyatt composition from the same album, clocking in at 3:03.^[59] Despite its inclusion on the album and some radio exposure—including plays on John Peel's BBC Radio 1 sessions in April and May 1972—the single achieved no commercial chart success in the UK or internationally.^[61] The band issued no further official singles before disbanding in 1973. Posthumous efforts have been confined to promotional items or bonus tracks on reissues, such as the 2002 expanded edition of Matching Mole, with no additional commercial single releases.^[2] In the 1970s progressive rock landscape, bands like Matching Mole typically de-emphasized singles in favor of album-oriented artistry, treating them primarily as tools to promote LPs rather than pursue mainstream hits.^[62]

Media Appearances

Radio and Television Performances

Matching Mole recorded three studio sessions for BBC Radio 1's Top Gear program, hosted by John Peel, in early 1972, showcasing their improvisational jazz-rock style during the band's formative period.^[61] The first session, recorded on 17 January 1972 and first broadcast on 25 January 1972, featured "Immediate Kitten" and an early version of "Brandy as in Benj 'M'" (later known as "Part of the Dance").^[61] The second session took place on 6 March 1972, airing on 24 March 1972, with performances of "No 'Alf Measures" and "Lything and Gracing," emphasizing the band's exploratory dynamics.^[61] The third and final Peel session, recorded on 17 April 1972 and broadcast on 9 May 1972, included "Marchides," "Instant Pussy," and "Smoke Signals," highlighting guitarist Phil Miller's contributions and the group's evolving Canterbury scene sound.^[61] These sessions were later compiled on the 2007 release On the Radio by Hux Records. In addition to the Peel sessions, the band performed a full live concert for BBC Radio 1's In Concert series on 27 July 1972 at the Paris Theatre in London, produced by Jeff Griffin.^[63] This broadcast, featuring the lineup of Robert Wyatt on drums and vocals, Phil Miller on guitar, Bill MacCormick on bass, and Dave MacRae on electric piano, captured extended improvisations such as "Litheing and Gracing" and "Marchides," demonstrating their live energy prior to the band's disbandment later that year.^[54] The performance was released in 1994 as BBC Radio 1 Live in Concert.^[63] On the television front, Matching Mole made a notable appearance on the French ORTF program Rockenstock on 1 July 1972, during their European tour, performing "Gloria Gloom" and "Part of the Dance" at Château Studio in Hérouville.^[64] This broadcast, featuring Wyatt's distinctive masked stage presence, provided one of the few visual records of the band in action and underscored their international reach within progressive rock circles.^[64] The group had no major appearances on UK television programs such as The Old Grey Whistle Test, though their radio work received airplay and mentions in BBC music programming.

Film and Documentary Features

Matching Mole's presence in film and documentary features is primarily through archival footage and discussions in works focused on the Canterbury scene and Robert Wyatt's career, as the band did not contribute to major feature film soundtracks or appear in narrative cinema during its active years.^[65] The 2015 documentary Romantic Warriors III: Canterbury Tales, directed by Adele Schmidt and José Zegarra Holder, explores the history and influence of the Canterbury progressive rock scene, prominently featuring Matching Mole as a key ensemble formed by Wyatt after leaving Soft Machine. The film includes interviews with former band member Bill MacCormick, who reflects on the group's collaborative dynamics and its role in the scene's evolution, alongside rare archival clips of performances and discussions of tracks like those from the band's debut album.^[66]^[65]^[67] Wyatt-centered documentaries also incorporate Matching Mole material, highlighting the band's brief but influential tenure. The 1998 film Little Red Robin Hood, a profile of Wyatt's musical journey, uses footage from Matching Mole's live performances to illustrate his transition from drumming in Soft Machine to leading the new group, emphasizing improvisational elements in songs such as "Signed Curtain." Similarly, the 2001 BBC production Free Will and Testament: The Robert Wyatt Story, directed by Mark Kidel, features archival clips of Matching Mole alongside interviews with Wyatt and contemporaries, showcasing tour footage from the early 1970s that captures the band's jazz-inflected rock style before Wyatt's 1974 accident altered his performing capabilities.^[68]^[69]^[70] These appearances underscore Matching Mole's archival value in preserving the Canterbury scene's experimental ethos, with no known contributions to commercial film soundtracks but significant use of live and studio excerpts in retrospective works.^[65]

References

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Matching Mole was the band formed by drummer/vocalist Robert Wyatt after he left the pioneering UK outfit Soft Machine in July, 1971.Missing: history albums
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Short-lived group formed by Robert Wyatt following his departure from Soft Machine. Read Full Biography Active 1970s Formed 1971 in Canterbury, Kent, EnglandMissing: history | Show results with:history
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It's a bit scattergun, and Wyatt is today mildly embarrassed by the album (although not as much as by contemporaneous Soft Machine output). There may be ...
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"Quiet Sun were supporting Symbiosis, with Robert on drums that ... " In late 1971 Robert began to sound out musicians for what would become Matching Mole.
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Matching Mole released two studio albums for CBS, "Matching Mole" (1972) and "Matching Mole's Little Red Record" (1972). In 1994, Windsong released BBC Radio 1 ...
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1971. October. [late] Matching Mole is formed, with Robert Wyatt, David Sinclair, Bill MacCormick and Phil Miller. December. [29-30] London, CBS Studios ...
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Jan 12, 2014 · Highlights of the day were: Matching Mole (featuring Robert Wyatt), Stackridge (“Slark” was a favourite of mine at the time), Vinegar Joe (Elkie ...Missing: initial | Show results with:initial
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MATCHING MOLE played a finely crafted Canterbury'ish styled fusion prog rock which featured the talents of Dave MacRae and Bill MacCormick (QUIET SUN), Robert ...
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Their second album Matching Mole's Little Red Record was released in November 1972. The album title refers to Chairman Mao's little red book. This reference ...
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In the autumn of 1971, Matching Mole was formed with Sinclair, Wyatt, Phil ... Sinclair finally decided to leave after a European tour in March 1972.
[24]
Bill MacCormick interview | Quiet Sun, Matching Mole and 801
May 15, 2011 · “Robert, along with my brother, were the two most important musical influences on me.” What was it like to collaborate with Robert Wyatt?
[25]
Matching Mole Albums - Rate Your Music
Robert Wyatt (drums, vocals, piano, Mellotron), Phil Miller (guitar), Bill MacCormick (bass), Dave Sinclair (organ, piano, 1971-72), Dave MacRae (electric ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
[26]
Homage to Old Rottenhat | Michael Hofmann - The Baffler
Dec 21, 2020 · So there's Wyatt, on the eponymous first Soft Machine record, singing “Why Am I So Short?,” a song the other two wrote for—if not against—him:.Missing: departure | Show results with:departure
[27]
Hitting 'Rock Bottom': How a fall from a window redirected Robert ...
Oct 10, 2022 · Wyatt left the Soft Machine in 1971 to form the trio Matching Mole. He released his debut solo album, The End of an Ear, that same year. By ...
[28]
Robert Wyatt – Rock Bottom | 50th Anniversary
The album's preparation was interrupted by an accident on the night of 1 June 1973. During a raucous party, at Vale Court, Hall Road, Maida Vale in London, an ...
[29]
Hatfield and the North - JazzRockSoul.com
Jan 10, 2022 · They were formed by ex-members of Caravan, Delivery, and Matching Mole. Keyboardist Dave Stewart (Arzachel, Egg, Khan) completed the band. Their ...
[30]
Phil Miller obituary | Pop and rock | The Guardian
Dec 29, 2017 · Phil Miller, who has died of cancer aged 68, was a distinctive and original guitarist and composer.
[31]
Wyatt, Robert | Encyclopedia.com
1971; left The Soft Machine c. 1971; founded Matching Mole c. 1972; disbanded Matching Mole c. 1972; fell from window and broke spine, paralyzed from waist ...
[32]
Robert Wyatt - Interview - Penny Black Music
Feb 5, 2016 · Beginning with Canterbury band the Wilde Flowers, then later moving on to Soft Machine and Matching Mole, a traumatic accident in 1973 when ...Missing: vocalist background
[33]
Robert Wyatt 1945– Wheelchair-using musician
Nov 4, 2018 · The injury led Wyatt to abandon the Matching Mole project, and his rock drumming (though he would continue to play drums and percussion in more ...
[34]
MATCHING MOLE discography and reviews - Prog Archives
Free delivery over $125Matching Mole, the 1972 debut album by Matching Mole, a cult band from the Canterbury Scene. The band was founded in 1971 by Robert Wyatt, who was also the ...Biography · Buy musicMissing: history | Show results with:history
[35]
Perfect Sound Forever: RIP guitarist Phil Miller - Furious.com
Phil Miller was an English rock and jazz guitarist, probably best known to American audiences as a member of Delivery, Matching Mole, Hatfield and the North, ...
[36]
Matching Mole - Matching Mole
### Credits for Matching Mole Album
[37]
Dave MacRae - Calyx – Canterbury music website
In August 1972, the second and final Matching Mole album, Matching Mole's Little Red Record, was recorded, with MacRae's writing and performing skills well to ...
[38]
Matching Mole - Matching Mole's Little Red Record
### Credits for Matching Mole's Little Red Record
[39]
Gary Windo - CALYX
Gary Windo Tenor Sax. Born : November 7th, 1941 - Brighton (UK) Died ... Matching Mole (1973), I Dogou (1974), Carla Bley Band (1977-80), NRBQ (1981 ...
[40]
Francis Monkman - Calyx – Canterbury music website
Born : June 9th, 1949. Past Bands : Sisyphus (1969-70), Curved Air (1970-72, 1974), Matching Mole (1973), 801 (1976), Sky (1978-80)
[41]
Francis Monkman (keyboards) - The Musicians' Olympus
Dec 14, 2011 · 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 ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[42]
https://classicrockreview.wordpress.com/2021/08/09/matching-mole-matching-mole-1972/
[43]
Matching Mole | Canterbury Scene's Experimental Pioneers
Jun 7, 2025 · Matching Mole combined complex rhythms, jazzy improvisations, and surreal, poetic lyrics often sung by Wyatt's distinctive, emotive voice. Their ...
[44]
MATCHING MOLE discography (top albums) and reviews
The first lineup of Matching Mole also included former Caravan member Dave Sinclair on keyboards, Phil Miller on guitar, and Bill MacCormick.
[45]
Matching Mole 1st album | Classic Rock Review
It starts with three mellow songs with Wyatt's appealing vocals then switches gears to a more Jazz and even Fusion style of music with touches of psychedelia.<|control11|><|separator|>
[46]
Matching Mole/Little Red Record - Jazzwise
Matching Mole are usually seen as a transitionary stage in the career of Robert Wyatt. The group formed in 1971, in the aftermath of his departure from Soft ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[47]
Matching Mole's Little Red Record (review) - Jazz Music Archives
Oct 22, 2016 · Musically, Little Red Record is a quintessential Canterbury scene album. Matching Mole's style is notably different from their debut album. The ...
[48]
Matching Mole's Little Red Record - Rate Your Music
Rating 3.5 (1,248) · 30-day returnsRecorded and released just before Wyatt's near fatal and life changing accident in 1973, Matching Mole's second album feels like a definitive, lasting full ...
[49]
MATCHING MOLE Matching Mole music review by FrancescoProg
Matching Mole, the 1972 debut album by Matching Mole, a cult band from the Canterbury Scene. The band was founded in 1971 by Robert Wyatt, who was also the ...
[50]
MATCHING MOLE Matching Mole reviews - Prog Archives
Joined by a few other musicians, namely Phil Miller, Bill McCormick and Dave McRae, they teamed up to create Matching Mole. The name "Matching Mole" comes from ...Missing: producer | Show results with:producer
[51]
Little Red Record - Matching Mole | Album - AllMusic
Rating 7.9/10 (80) Little Red Record by Matching Mole released in 1972. Find album reviews ... Duration. 42:56. Genre. Pop/Rock. Styles. Art Rock, Canterbury Scene, Prog-Rock ...
[52]
https://www.progarchives.com/album.asp?id=917
[53]
Smoke Signals | Matching Mole - Cuneiform Records - Bandcamp
Free deliverySmoke Signals compiles all previously unreleased performances - selected & sequenced by Robert Wyatt biographer Mike King - from the band's most intense gigging ...
[54]
March | Matching Mole - Cuneiform Records - Bandcamp
Free deliveryMarch by Matching Mole, released 17 September 2002 1. March 2. Instant Pussy 3. Smoke Signals 4. Part of the Dance 5. No 'alf Measures 6.Missing: Montreux | Show results with:Montreux
[55]
On the Radio by Matching Mole - Jazz Album
Jazz album: “On the Radio” by Matching Mole, released in 2007 on Hux Records. Explore the largest collection of jazz recordings @ All About Jazz.
[56]
https://cuneiformrecords.bandcamp.com/album/march
[57]
Matching Mole - O Caroline
### Summary of 'O Caroline' by Matching Mole
[58]
MATCHING MOLE "Matching Mole" (1972) - Lyrics - CALYX
O CAROLINE Words by Robert Wyatt, Music by David Sinclair. David's on piano, and I may play on a drum. And we'll try to make the music work, ...Missing: writer tribute
[59]
Matching Mole - John Peel Wiki - Fandom
Peel kept up his interest in Robert Wyatt's work when the drummer formed Matching Mole, who did three sessions for his show during their short lifespan. They ...
[60]
The "new" singles from 70's prog bands.. - Progressive Rock Music ...
May 12, 2008 · Another thing for no discussion is the single stuff, maybe not all singles but they are well known "pop" or friendly rocker songs.. I like all.
[61]
BBC Radio 1 Live in Concert - Matching Mole - AllMusic
Rating 7.3/10 (10) BBC Radio 1 Live in Concert by Matching Mole released in 1995. Find album ... Recording Date. July 27, 1972. Recording Location. Paris Theatre, London ...
[62]
Watch: Robert Wyatt and Matching Mole on French TV program ...
May 14, 2024 · The group released a pair of albums in 1972. Our personal favorite is the self-titled one, mostly because of the amazing album artwork which ...<|separator|>
[63]
Romantic Warriors 3 - Canterbury Tales - Page 1 - Prog Archives
Dec 27, 2014 · From the "Romantic Warriors - A Progressive Music Saga" page on Facebook: ... HATFIELD AND THE NORTH • IN CAHOOTS • MATCHING MOLE • PLANETA ...
[64]
Romantic Warriors III - Canterbury Tales article @ All About Jazz
May 3, 2015 · ... Canterbury" debut with Robert Wyatt's Matching Mole (following a stint in the blues rock band Delivery). Wyatt's band also included bassist ...
[65]
Romantic Warriors III – Canterbury Tales (DVD) - T P A
Jul 20, 2015 · ... Matching Mole's Bill MacCormick is “Where's the bloody money? Someone must have had a good time with it, it certainly wasn't me!” A common ...
[66]
Robert Wyatt: Little Red Robin Hood (Video 1998) - IMDb
Rating 6.5/10 (16) A documentary on Robert Wyatt - singer, drummer and founding member of The Soft Machine, the legendary band in the international musical arena.
[67]
FREE WILL & TESTAMENT : THE ROBERT WYATT STORY (en)
Oct 15, 2024 · This documentary features numerous historical clips and archival footage (U.S. tour with Hendrix, Soft Machine, Matching Mole), as well as ...
[68]
Robert Wyatt Documentary (Free Will And Testament 2003) - YouTube
Mar 20, 2023 · Two portions had to be edited out : 1. Matching Mole (INA 30 Second Clip) 2. Wyatt & Annie Whitehead "Sea Song" Support Robert Wyatt ...