The raw but cerebral music that was dubbed The New Thing certainly created confusion and consternation amongst the establishment in the USA and Britain, but pioneers like Cecil Taylor and Albert Ayler found an appreciative audience in Europe, especially in Scandinavia and France, which of course is where Return of The New Thing hail from.

Return of The Thing are English pianist and violinist, Dan Warburton, and three Frenchmen: alto saxophonist, Jean-Luc Guionnet, bassist, Francois Fuchs and percussionist, Edward Perraud. One of the most interesting things about the group is that none of the members come from a pure jazz background. Warburton is a classical composer who collaborated with Steve Reich in New York while serving as a Harkness Fellow. Guionnet studied electro-acoustics theory and is actively involved in experimental film and theater. Perraud is possibly best known for his work with the experimental rock outfit, Shub Niggurath, and Francois Fuchs has worked with Quinte & Sens, an eclectic band whose influences include klezmer music and African rhythms. (Philip Palmer, AllAboutJazz)