If - If (1970) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: Island Records
Country: UK
Released: 1970
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to If

If is the debut album by the English jazz-rock band of the same name, released in October 1970 through Island Records in the UK and Capitol Records in the US. Formed in 1969, the band features a lineup that includes saxophonists Dave Quincy and Dick Morrissey, along with guitarist Terry Smith, and is known for blending rock and jazz elements in their music.

Recording Details

The album was recorded at Island Studios in London between February and April 1970. This location was significant in the UK music scene, serving as a hub for various artists. The production was handled by Lew Futterman, while Frank Owen took on the role of sound engineer. The sessions captured the band's live energy and instrumental versatility, a hallmark of their style.

Musical Composition

If's tracklist features a variety of compositions that highlight the band's jazz-rock fusion. "I'm Reaching Out On All Sides" opens the album with a strong saxophone presence, setting the tone for the ensuing tracks. "What Did I Say About The Box, Jack?" showcases intricate instrumental interplay, while "What Can A Friend Say?" brings a melodic and reflective quality to the album. The second side includes "Woman, Can You See (What This Big Thing Is All About)?" which emphasizes the band's lyrical storytelling.

Band Members and Instruments

The band's lineup includes J.W. Hodgkinson on lead vocals and percussion, Jim Richardson on bass guitar, and Dennis Elliott on drums. Terry Smith delivers lead guitar work, while John Mealing provides organ, piano, and vocals. The saxophone section features Dave Quincy on tenor and alto saxophones and Dick Morrissey on tenor and soprano saxophones, enriching the album's sound with their dual contributions.

Commercial Performance

If charted successfully in both the UK and the US markets. The blending of rock and jazz styles appealed to a diverse audience, contributing to the band's growing popularity. The album's production quality and musicianship played a role in its reception among listeners.

Final Notes

The album "If" was released on October 1, 1970.

Tracklist

A1	I'm Reaching Out On All Sides Written-By – QuincyWritten-By – Fishman	5:14
A2	What Did I Say About The Box, Jack? Written-By – Morrissey*	8:20
A3	What Can A Friend Say? Written-By – Quincy*	6:28
B1	Woman, Can You See (What This Big Thing Is All About)? Written-By – Hodgkinson*	4:07
B2	Raise The Level Of Your Conscious Mind Written-By – MarsalaWritten-By – Fishman	3:11
B3	Dockland Written-By – Runswick*	5:21
B4	The Promised Land Written-By – Quincy*	4:31

Credits

Artwork [Cover Art] – CCS Advertising Associates*
Bass Guitar – Jim Richardson
Drums – Dennis Elliot*
Engineer [Sound] – Frank Owen
Lead Guitar – Terry Smith
Lead Vocals, Percussion – J. W. Hodgkinson*
Organ, Piano, Vocals – John Mealing
Producer – Lew Futterman
Tenor Saxophone [Tenor], Alto Saxophone [Alto], Flute – Dave Quincy
Tenor Saxophone [Tenor], Soprano Saxophone [Soparano], Flute – Dick Morrissey