Traffic was a British rock band formed in 1967 by Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood, and Dave Mason. Blending rock, jazz, folk, and psychedelic influences, they created a distinctive, genre-defying sound.
Their early hits like "Dear Mr. Fantasy" and "Feelin' Alright" became classics, while later albums such as John Barleycorn Must Die (1970) and The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys (1971) showcased a more progressive, jazz-infused style.
Though Mason left early on, the core trio of Winwood, Capaldi, and Wood carried the band through its most influential years. Traffic disbanded in 1974 but briefly reunited in 1994 for Far from Home, leaving behind a lasting legacy in rock history.
Traffic Band Members
Core Members: Steve Winwood (vocals, keyboards, guitar), Jim Capaldi (drums, vocals), Chris Wood (saxophone, flute), Dave Mason (guitar, vocals, briefly)
Later Members: Ric Grech (bass, violin), Rebop Kwaku Baah (percussion), Jim Gordon (drums), Roger Hawkins (drums), David Hood (bass), Rosko Gee (bass)
Reunion: Winwood and Capaldi reformed Traffic in 1994 for Far from Home.
Mr. Fantasy (1967) (released as Heaven Is in Your Mind in the U.S.) use ☰ to select track
Traffic's debut album, blending psychedelic rock, jazz, and folk influences, with standout tracks like "Dear Mr. Fantasy" and "Paper Sun," showcasing the band's early experimentation and unique sound.
Albums continued in comment section...
Related Live concert Santa Monica 1972
John Barleycorn Must Die (1970)
a fusion of rock, folk, and jazz, featuring Traffic's signature blend of intricate musicianship and emotional depth, highlighted by tracks like "Glad" and "John Barleycorn."
The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys (1971)
a seminal Traffic album known for its fusion of jazz, rock, and progressive styles, featuring standout tracks like the title track and "Rock and Roll Stew."
Shoot Out at the Fantasy Factory (1973)
a jazz-rock album by Traffic, featuring extended compositions and a more experimental sound, with standout tracks like "The Low Spark of High Heeled Boys" and the title track.
When the Eagle Flies (1974)
Traffic's final studio album, blending progressive rock and jazz with a more stripped-down, reflective sound, marking the end of their original run.
Far from Home (1994)
Traffic's comeback album, marking their first release in 20 years, blending rock, blues, and jazz with a more polished, mature sound.