If - If 3 (1971) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: United Artists Records
Country: UK
Released: 1971
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Album Overview

If 3 is the third studio album by the English jazz-rock band If, released in August 1971. The album came out under United Artists Records in the UK and Capitol Records in the US. Produced by Jon Child, who had experience with the band's previous album, If 2, this release marks a continuation of their exploration of jazz-infused rock. The album reached number 171 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart in the United States.

Musical Style and Composition

This album blends elements of rock and jazz, featuring complex arrangements and skilled musicianship. The band consisted of Jim Richardson on bass, Dennis Elliott on drums, and Terry Smith on guitar. John Mealing contributed with organ, electric piano, and backing vocals, while Dave Quincy and Dick Morrissey played various saxophones and flute, adding depth to the arrangements. J.W. Hodkinson handled vocals and percussion.

The album opens with "Fibonacci's Number," a track that spans over seven minutes, showcasing intricate rhythms and melodies. "Far Beyond," the album's single, was released alongside the album and features a catchy hook complemented by rich instrumental layers. Other tracks like "Sweet January" and "Child Of Storm" further develop the band's signature style, combining lyrical content with jazz harmonies.

Release and Reception

If 3 was released in a time when jazz-rock was becoming an appealing fusion genre. The album's combination of rock elements with jazz improvisation positioned the band as influential in this musical space. The single "Far Beyond," backed with "Forgotten Roads," was also released in August 1971, providing listeners a taste of the album's direction prior to its full release.

Technical Details

The recording took place at The Hit Factory in New York, which was known for its high-quality production. This environment likely contributed to the polished sound found throughout the album. If 3 is available in vinyl format, maintaining the tactile experience of music typical of the era.

If 3 features a total of eight tracks, reflecting the band's continued evolution in the jazz-rock genre.

Tracklist

A1	Fibonacci's Number Written-By – Dave Quincy	7:38
A2	Forgotten Roads Written-By – Dave QuincyWritten-By – Trevor Preston	4:23
A3	Sweet January Written-By – Dave QuincyWritten-By – Trevor Preston	4:30
A4	Child Of Storm Written-By – Dave QuincyWritten-By – Monica Hodkinson	3:39
B1	Far Beyond Written-By – John MealingWritten-By – Trevor Preston	4:57
B2	Seldom Seen Sam Written-By – J. W. Hodkinson*Written-By – Terry Smith	4:50
B3	Upstairs Written-By – Brigitta MorrisseyWritten-By – Dick Morrissey	4:52
B4	Here Comes Mr. Time Written-By – John MealingWritten-By – Trevor Preston	4:43

Credits

Bass – Jim Richardson
Cover [Cover Art], Layout – ART DIRECTION
Creative Director – Lew Futterman
Drums – Dennis Elliot*
Guitar – Terry Smith
Management [Group Representation] – Trigrad Entertainment
Organ, Electric Piano, Backing Vocals, Arranged By – John Mealing
Producer [Produced By] – IF
Producer [Produced By] – Jon Child
Recorded By – Frank Owen
Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Flute, Arranged By – Dave Quincy
Tenor Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Backing Vocals, Flute, Arranged By – Dick Morrissey
Vocals, Percussion – John Hodkinson