Henry Cow

Background

"Unrest" is the second studio album by the British avant-garde group Henry Cow. Released in May 1974, the album was recorded at The Manor, a studio owned by Virgin Records in Oxfordshire. Notably, this album marked the first appearance of Lindsay Cooper, who played oboe and bassoon. She replaced saxophonist Geoff Leigh and brought a new dimension to the band's sound. The recording sessions took place in February and March of the same year.

Musical Composition

The album is divided into two distinct halves. The first side features three longer tracks, characterized by semi-improvised structures. One of these pieces, "Ruins," is a composition by Fred Frith and was partially recorded and engineered by Mike Oldfield, known for his work on "Tubular Bells." The second side consists of five shorter tracks, which exhibit a more tightly composed approach. These pieces are collectively credited to the band and display a blend of rock and free jazz elements, reflecting their experimental style.

Instrumentation and Collaborators

The instrumentation on "Unrest" showcases a diverse array of instruments. Fred Frith contributed guitar, violin, and xylophone, while Tim Hodgkinson played alto saxophone, clarinet, and organ. John Greaves was on bass and also provided vocals, alongside Lindsay Cooper, who contributed her unique woodwind instruments. Drummer Chris Cutler rounded out the ensemble, delivering complex rhythms that complemented the intricate arrangements. The album was produced by the band itself and mixed by Henry Cow and Phil Becque.

Visual Presentation

The album cover features artwork by Anne Lamberty, with additional photography by Ray Smith. This visual component aligns with the band's artistic ethos, which merges music and visual art in a cohesive presentation. The album's packaging reflects the experimental nature of the music within, inviting listeners to explore the auditory landscape crafted by the band.

Release Details

"Unrest" was released on vinyl as an LP by Virgin Records. The album's total runtime is approximately 37 minutes, encapsulating the band's innovative sound during a period of musical exploration in the 1970s. The album continues to be an example of the experimental rock genre, integrating elements of jazz and avant-garde music.