Hatfield And The North

Label: Virgin
Country: UK
Released: 1973
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Formation and Context

Hatfield And The North emerged from the vibrant Canterbury music scene in the early 1970s. The band formed when bassist and vocalist Richard Sinclair, previously with Caravan, joined forces with guitarist Phil Miller and drummer Pip Pyle, who were members of Delivery. In early 1973, keyboardist Dave Stewart completed the lineup. This collaboration was a continuation of the unique blend of rock and jazz influences characteristic of the Canterbury scene.

Recording and Release

The band's self-titled debut album was recorded at The Manor Studio and produced by Tom Newman, along with the band members themselves. Released in 1973 on Virgin Records, this album marked one of the early signings of a Canterbury band to the label. It features a variety of musical styles, including jazz-rock and psychedelic rock, merging intricate instrumental interplay with whimsical lyrical themes.

Musical Composition

The album features several standout tracks, including "Calyx," which showcases the guest vocals of former Soft Machine member Robert Wyatt. The band’s sound is further enriched by the contributions of backing vocal trio The Northettes, consisting of Amanda Parsons, Ann Rosenthal, and Barbara Gaskin. Each track presents a unique blend of complex arrangements and playful experimentation, with compositions credited to various band members. Richard Sinclair's contributions include tracks like "Big Jobs" and "Licks For The Ladies," while Dave Stewart is credited with several works that showcase his keyboard skills.

Instrumentation and Production

Instrumentation on the album is diverse, featuring bass, guitar, keyboards, and a range of percussion. The presence of the pixiephone, played by Jeremy Baines, adds a distinctive sound element that complements the band’s experimental approach. The production captures the essence of the band's live energy, allowing the intricate details of their musicianship to shine through. The album's artwork, designed by Laurie Lewis, complements the whimsical nature of the music.

Track Highlights

Tracks such as "The Stubbs Effect" and "Gigantic Land Crabs In Earth Takeover Bid" reflect the band's playful lyricism and musical inventiveness. The combination of jazz and rock elements creates a fluid listening experience that is both engaging and unpredictable. Each song contributes to the album's overall character, making it a noteworthy entry in the Canterbury scene.

Release Details

The album "Hatfield And The North" was released on Virgin Records in 1973. It is available in vinyl format as a long-playing album.

Tracklist

A1	The Stubbs Effect Written-By – Pip Pyle
A2	Big Jobs (Poo Poo Extract) Written-By – Richard Sinclair
A3	Going Up To People And Tinkling Written-By – Dave Stewart
A4	Calyx Vocals – Robert WyattWritten-By – Phil Miller
A5	Son Of "There's No Place Like Homerton" Written-By – Dave Stewart
A6	Aigrette Written-By – Phil Miller
A7	Rifferama Arranged By – The North*Written-By – Richard Sinclair
B1	Fol De Rol Written-By – Richard Sinclair
B2	Shaving Is Boring Written-By – Pip Pyle
B3	Licks For The Ladies Written-By – Richard Sinclair
B4	Bossa Nochance Written-By – Richard Sinclair
B5	Big Jobs No. 2 (By Poo And The Wee Wees) Written-By – Richard Sinclair
B6	Lobster In Cleavage Probe Written-By – Dave Stewart
B7	Gigantic Land Crabs In Earth Takeover Bid Written-By – Dave Stewart
B8	The Other Stubbs Effect Written-By – Pip Pyle