Enid

Album Overview

In 1979, The Enid released their album titled Six Pieces under the Pye Records label. This album was recorded between August and September of the same year in the UK. It marked a notable transition for the band, as bassist and keyboardist Terry Pack had recently departed. His position was filled by Martin Russell, who contributed both keyboards and bass guitar to this release.

Musical Structure

Six Pieces consists of six instrumental tracks, each designed as a musical portrait of a member of the band. The absence of vocals throughout the album emphasizes the instrumental expertise of the group. The opening track, "Punch And Judy Man," features a dynamic combination of Moog synthesizer effects and a driving rhythm section. This piece sets the tone for the album, showcasing a style that aligns closely with the symphonic rock sound prevalent in the late 1970s, reminiscent of bands like Genesis.

Track Highlights

Each piece on the album provides a distinct atmosphere and showcases different elements of the band's sound. "Once She Was," a collaboration between Martin Russell, Robert Godfrey, and traditional sources, offers a reflective mood. The track "The Ring Master" stands out with its intricate arrangements and rich textures, further illustrating the band's musical diversity. The album progresses into "Sanctus," incorporating more complex harmonies and arrangements. The latter part of the album features "Hall Of Mirrors," which introduces layered keyboard work and a more dynamic interplay between the instruments.

Production Details

The album was produced by The Enid themselves, reflecting their artistic vision and control over the project. Stephen Stewart served as the recording engineer, ensuring that the intricate soundscapes of the band were captured effectively. The collaboration among the members—Robbie Dobson on drums and percussion, Francis Lickerish on guitar and bass guitar, alongside the keyboard work of Robert John Godfrey and William Gilmour—creates a cohesive and engaging listening experience.

Release Information

Six Pieces is catalogued in progressive and symphonic rock discography sources as a UK-only release. The album remains a part of The Enid's early catalog, illustrating their distinctive blend of rock and classical influences. It was released on vinyl LP format, which was a standard for albums during that era.

The album features six tracks, all of which are instrumental.