This pianist, bandleader, and composer has for long been one of the most prominent in English, and indeed European jazz, without reservations.
   Through the years John Taylor has written a lot of music. His declared model in that regard is his countryman Mike Gibbs. As for playing the piano he has used Bill Evans as a vital point of departure. From there on he has developed a wholly personal style characterized by long and flowing lyrical lines executed with great technical mastery. Especially on ballads his many qualities appear to advantage.
   As a result of his musical achievement and extensive activities Taylor has made a central place for himself within the English school of contemporary mainstream jazz. Since the early 60s he has worked with and been in great demand by a succession of British and European groups on the highest level. Taylor has thus been the mainstay of the English trio Azimuth.