Walrus - Walrus (1970) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: Deram
Country: UK
Released: 1970
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to Walrus

Walrus is the eponymous debut and only album by the English band of the same name. Released in December 1970 on the Deram label, this LP features a total of seven tracks. The band, formed by bassist Steve Hawthorn, is characterized by its unique blend of rock and progressive rock elements. Notably, their sound incorporates a prominent horn section, distinguishing them from many of their contemporaries.

Band Composition and Sound

The eight-piece band includes Steve Hawthorn on bass guitar, with an instrumental lineup that features John Scates on lead and rhythm guitar, Barry Parfitt on organ and piano, and a diverse horn section. This section consists of Don Richards on trumpet, Roy Voce on tenor saxophone, and Bill Hoad playing multiple saxophones and clarinet. The vocals are led by Noel Greenaway, whose performance adds to the album's distinctive sound. The combination of these instruments creates a rich musical texture throughout the album.

Musical Structure and Themes

The album opens with "Who Can I Trust?", a short but intriguing track that sets the tone for the experience. Following this, the medley “Rags And Old Iron / Blind Man / Roadside” showcases the band’s ability to blend various themes into a cohesive sound. Tracks like "Turning / Woman / Turning (Reprise)" and "Coloured Rain / Mother's Dead Face In Memoriam / Coloured Rain (Reprise)" further illustrate their experimental approach to song structure. The lyrics often reflect introspective themes, providing depth to the vibrant instrumentals.

Recording and Production

Produced by David Hitchcock, the album was engineered by John Punter, with assistance from Simaen Skolfield. The production quality captures the live energy of the band, which was known for their engaging performances. The artwork for the album cover was designed by David Anstey, with photography by David Wedgbury, contributing to the visual representation of the band's identity at the time.

Final Notes

Despite their promising start and a growing live following, Walrus disbanded in 1972, leaving this album as their sole release. The album was cataloged under SML 1072 by the Deram label.

Tracklist

A1	Who Can I Trust? Written-By – Hawthorn*	2:34
A2a	Rags And Old Iron Percussion [Afro-Percussion] – GingerWritten-By – CurtisWritten-By – Oscar Brown Jnr.*
A2b	Blind Man Written-By – Hawthorn*
A2c	Roadside Bongos – Ginger JohnsonCongas – Roger HarrisonWritten-By – Hawthorn
A3	Why 12-String Acoustic Guitar – SteveWritten-By – Hawthorn	4:30
B1a	Turning Celesta – DonOther [Monologue] – SteveWritten-By – Hawthorn*
B1b	Woman Written-By – Greenaway*
B1c	Turning (Reprise) Written-By – Hawthorn*
B2	Sunshine Needs Me Written-By – Hawthorn*	3:23
B3a	Coloured Rain Written-By – WoodWritten-By – CapaldiWritten-By – Winwood*
B3b	Mother's Dead Face In Memoriam Written-By – Walrus
B3c	Coloured Rain (Reprise) Written-By – WoodWritten-By – CapaldiWritten-By – Winwood*
B4	Tomorrow Never Comes Written-By – Hawthorn*	3:34

Credits

Arranged By – Bill Hoad
Arranged By – Don Richards
Artwork [Front Cover] – David Anstey
Bass Guitar – Steve Hawthorn
Cowbell, Tambourine, Claves – Roger Harrison
Drums – Nick Gabb
Drums, Cowbell, Tambourine, Claves – Roger Harrison
Engineer – John Punter
Engineer [Assistant] – Simaen Skolfield
Lacquer Cut By – W
Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar – John Scates
Liner Notes – Jerry Floyd
Organ, Piano – Barry Parfitt
Photography By [Back Cover] – David Wedgbury
Producer – David Hitchcock
Soprano Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Flute [Alto] – Bill Hoad
Tenor Saxophone – Roy Voce
Trumpet – Don Richards
Vocals – Noel Greenaway