- Format: CD
- Label: Angel Air
- Genre: Progressive
Once upon a time, there was a band called Stackridge. Inspired by three disparate musical influences - the Beatles, Frank Zappa and the Incredible String Band - they aspired, according to guitarist, bassist and singer James Warren to a pure, solid melodicism, rhythmic complexity and a weird combination of pastoral,
philosophical and positively surreal lyrics.
The original six-piece line-up that came together in Bristol in 1969 comprised Warren, Andy Davis (guitar, keyboards, vocals) and Jim 'Crun' Walter (bass) from local blues band Griptight Thynne, Mutter Slater (flute, vocals), Mike Evans (violin) and Bill Bent (drums).
Their originally selected name, Stackridge Lemon, was quickly and sensibly shortened. They had managed to play the very first Glastonbury in 1970 - not 1971, as official histories sometimes suggest - alongside
Keith Christmas, Al Stewart and Marc Bolan. 'We were the opening act and came back on at the end of the second day to finish the proceedings,' is James' sole recollection of what was then known as 'The Shepton Mallet Rhythm and Blues Festival'. Oh, and the free milk from Michael Eavis's herd.
Stackridge was created on 16-track equipment at Kingsway Studios, London in 1971 with the help of producer Fritz Fryer of Sixties harmony group the Four Pennies; engineer was Martin Birch, who went on to produce many famous heavy metal acts. Quite what he made of Stackridge's cast of characters that inhabited their songs is not known. This album was originally released on 6th August 1971.
Now remastered by James Warren and Andy Davis - enjoy English popular music at its creative best.
Track listing:
1. Grande Piano 2. Percy The Penguin 3. The Three Legged Table 4. Dora The Female Explorer
5. Essence Of Porphyry 6. Marigold Connection 7. 32 West Mall 8. Marzo Plod 9. Slark
BONUS TRACKS
10. Slark (single version) 11. Let There Be Lids
