proto-BRAND X

Robin Lumley was involved in a project called 'Marscape' before Brand X was founded. This project could appeal to all Brand X fans. Here is what I found on the net about this record :

The second project that Lancaster and Lumley would focus their attentions on was a completely different styled album. This time round the album was totally instrumental and based on a loose concept. Released in 1976, it was titled Marscape. However the more important feature of this album, apart from the excellent music, was the names of the musicians involved in the recording of the album. One of the foremost jazz rock bands that progressive rock fans immediately identify themselves with is Brand X. When Marscape was released, Brand X had not yet released their seminal debut Unorthodox Behaviour, though all members of the band also played on Marscape. Thus one could actually consider Marscape as the first release that features the members of Brand X playing together. Of course the music was composed and produced by Lancaster and Lumley.

Lineup: Jack Lancaster (Lyricon, saxophone, Flutes, Watergong), Robin Lumley (Piano, harmonium, Synthesizers, Autoharp, Hammond organ), John Goodsall (Guitars), Percy Jones (Bass, Electronic Percussion, Watergong), Phil Collins (Drums, Percussion), Bernie Frost (Voices), Simon Jeffes (Koto and The Simon Jeffes Sring Quartet),

Recorded at Trident Studios, London 1976

 I've got that somewhere on vinyl, haven't listened in many a year, having purchased it probably a good twenty years ago, if i had a functioning turntable I'd probably go search for it.

Hammar wrote: Never heard about it, but it's interesting. If the music is similar to Unorthodox I think I will stay away. Unorthodox lacks of good melodies, but of course, lots of great arrangements and riffs. Moroccan Roll is my Brand X favourite. I had to think hard about the name Lancaster. Finally, I found him in my collection, on Blodwyn Pig's first album. It's not really my favourite music, but it's fun!! I guess Marscape is quite different. Listening to National Health these days, great fusion!!!

Marscape has some fusion moments but there are also plenty of solo keyboard sections and some orchestrations. It's not plain and simple fusion as is the case with Unorthodox but rather an instrumental work that could easily be used as a soundtrack for a sci-fi movie.