The only way I can understand Ratledge and Hopper’s inclusion of Phil Howard into Soft Machine is that they didn’t initially realize his playing had no “off switch.” Happily, his playing on both All White and Drop is perfect as his wall of sound drumming energizes and completes both tunes. After those tracks, however, disaster and musical chaos reign as Phil Howard becomes a drumming train wreck and liability for Soft Machine.  [ read more ]