Happy The Man

Label: Arista
Country: US
Released: 1978
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

Happy The Man released their second album, Crafty Hands, on September 21, 1978. This album was issued by Arista Records under catalog number AB 4191. It followed the band's self-titled debut. Crafty Hands was recorded at Chateau Recorders in North Hollywood during December 1977 and January 1978. The production and engineering were handled by Ken Scott, who had also worked on the band's first album.

Musical Style and Composition

Crafty Hands falls within the Progressive Rock genre. The album comprises a mix of instrumental tracks and one song featuring vocals. The only track with sung lyrics is "Service With A Smile," co-written by drummer Ron Riddle and keyboardist Greg Hawkes. The remaining compositions are instrumental and showcase the band's diverse musical talents.

Band Lineup and Contributions

The album features a core lineup including Stanley Whitaker on guitar and vocals, Kit Watkins and Frank Wyatt on keyboards, and Rick Kennell on bass. Frank Wyatt also plays saxophone and flute. Ron Riddle, who contributed to the album's sound with drums and percussion, did not tour with the band after this release. His collaboration on "Service With A Smile" adds a unique element to the album's dynamic.

Track Highlights

Opening with the lively "Service With A Smile," the album transitions into the reflective "Morning Sun" and the longer, more complex "Ibby It Is." Each track offers a glimpse into the band's creative approach, blending various instruments and arrangements. The album continues with "Steaming Pipes" and further explores instrumental depth with longer tracks like "Wind Up Doll Day Wind."

Production Details

Ken Scott's production work on Crafty Hands emphasizes the intricate arrangements and musicianship of the band. His experience with other notable acts helped shape the album's sound. The album artwork, designed by Mario Grimaldi, complements the music with visuals that reflect the band's artistic vision.

Happy The Man's Crafty Hands is a product of the late 1970s progressive rock scene and highlights the band's unique sound through its varied instrumentation and compositions. The album's recording took place at Chateau Recorders in North Hollywood.

Tracklist

A1	Service With A Smile Written-By – HawkesWritten-By – Riddle	2:42
A2	Morning Sun Written-By – Watkins*	4:05
A3	Ibby It Is Written-By – Wyatt*	7:51
A4	Steaming Pipes Written-By – Whitaker*	5:42
B1	Wind Up Doll Day Wind Written-By – WyattWritten-By – WatkinsWritten-By – Whitaker*	7:10
B2	Open Book Written-By – Wyatt*	4:54
B3	I Forgot To Push It Written-By – Watkins*	3:03
B4	The Moon, I Sing (Nossuri) Written-By – Watkins*	6:16