Daughter Cathy Rich’s note reports that this session was recorded at Ronnie Scott’s in 1986 using the Rolling Stones’ mobile recording studio. It turned out to be her father’s final recording. He died just five months later. Club-owner Scott’s introduction names Rich as “the world’s greatest drummer” and off they go, Rich setting the pace as the band roars in, electric bassist Amster’s huge sound and drive only matched by that of his leader, the overall rhythmic effect positively volcanic. Cathy adds that this line-up, which had been together for two years or so, was “the hottest, tightest group that he [Rich] had had in a long time” and it shows. Sammy Nestico’s ‘Wind Machine’ is the opener, Rich kicking hard as he does throughout, Bowlby scattering notes, the ensemble shouting, as Gisbert trumps them all. Bill Cunliffe’s ‘Night Blood’ eases into a loping swing feel again carried by Amster ahead of a pleasingly complex Garling trombone solo and more excitable Bowlby. Bill Holman’s ‘Ready Mix’ introduces the band’s star tenor soloist, the Coltrane-esque Steve Marcus, an 11-year veteran with the band, who is heavily featured throughout, as is the mercurial Gisbert. Ultimately gratifying and hugely rewarding, this much-delayed release is an exhilarating if full-on listen. Look for tailor-made charts, nimble bebop from pianist Harris, a nifty vocal by Cathy on ‘Twisted’ and plenty of Rich fusillades. This is big-band gold dust: the last hurrah of Buddy Rich, truly one of a kind.