Strict Tempo Modern by The New Studio Dance Orchestra: A Forgotten Gem from 1969
If you’re into jazz with an easy-listening vibe, Strict Tempo Modern is one of those albums that sneaks up on you. Released in 1969 by The New Studio Dance Orchestra—a UK-based group—this record feels like a warm cup of tea on a rainy afternoon. It’s not flashy or loud; instead, it hums along with a quiet charm that makes it perfect for lazy days or late-night vibes.
The album was released under the labels Morgan and Gemini, which might not ring any bells unless you’re deep into vintage British music history. But don’t let that fool you—there’s some real magic tucked away here. With tracks like “Those Were The Days” and “Lazy Afternoon,” the album strikes a balance between nostalgia and relaxation. Let me tell ya about two tunes that stuck with me.
First off, there’s “Lazy Afternoon.” This track? Pure gold. It’s got this breezy, unhurried groove that kinda lulls you into a daydream. I swear, every time I hear it, I imagine myself sprawled out on a hammock somewhere, maybe sipping lemonade (or something stronger). There’s just enough swing to keep things interesting but not so much that it feels overwhelming. You can almost picture the band recording this live, everyone vibing together without trying too hard. It’s the kind of song that reminds you life doesn’t always have to be go-go-go—it’s okay to chill sometimes.
Then there’s “Solitaire,” which shows up twice on the album because apparently they liked it that much. And honestly? They weren’t wrong. This tune has a gentle piano melody that feels both intimate and cinematic. Like, if someone made a black-and-white movie about falling in love during summer vacation, this would totally be the soundtrack. For whatever reason, it brings back memories of flipping through old photo albums or watching home videos—the kind where everything seems softer, sweeter, simpler.
Other standout tracks include “Down On The Beach” (which sounds exactly how you’d expect) and “Beautiful Dreamer,” which closes the album on a dreamy note. The whole thing clocks in at a modest length, leaving you wanting more rather than feeling overstuffed.
What gets me thinking, though, is how albums like this slip through the cracks over time. Back in ’69, people were probably busy grooving to rock 'n' roll or tripping out to psychedelia. Meanwhile, gems like Strict Tempo Modern quietly floated under the radar, waiting for someone decades later to stumble across them and say, “Wow, this is nice.”
So yeah, give it a listen. It won’t change your life or anything, but it might make your Tuesday evening a little brighter. Oh, and fun fact: whoever decided to repeat “Tiara For Ginya” and “Solitaire” clearly had their favorites! Guess even orchestras get attached to certain songs. Who knew?
In the end, isn’t that what music’s all about? Finding those little moments that stick with you, even when you least expect it.
