Byzantium

Introduction to Byzantium

Byzantium, a British rock band formed in 1970, emerged from the halls of University College School in Hampstead, London. The founding members, Nico Ramsden, Robin Lamble, and Stevie Corduner, were soon joined by guitarist Chas Jankel. Their early performances at the Country Club in Belsize Park helped them build a following. In 1972, they signed a deal with A&M Records, facilitated by manager Billy Gaff, who was known for his work with Rod Stewart.

Seasons Changing: Album Overview

The band's second album, titled Seasons Changing, was released in May 1973 exclusively in the UK. This album followed their self-titled debut and was produced by Robin Sylvester and Stuart Taylor, while engineering duties were handled by Greg Jackman and Roy Thomas Baker. Recorded at Trident Studios in London, the album features a blend of rock and progressive influences characteristic of the early 1970s music scene.

Track Highlights

Seasons Changing consists of two sides. The first side includes tracks such as "What A Coincidence," written by Robin Lamble, and "My Season's Changing With The Sun," by Mick Barakan. Chas Jankel contributed two songs: "Show Me The Way" and "I'll Always Be Your Friend." "October Lady," another track by Barakan, features B.J. Cole on pedal steel guitar, adding a distinct flavor to the album. The second side is dominated by a lengthy suite titled "Something You Said - A Trilogy," which spans 20 minutes and is divided into three parts. This piece was composed by Jamie Rubinstein and prominently features the ARP synthesizer, played by David Hentschel and Robin Sylvester.

Production and Release Details

The album's original UK pressings were produced at the Pye plant and feature a unique plum-red vinyl when viewed in light. A&M Records also released a single pairing "What A Coincidence" with "My Season's Changing With The Sun." Unfortunately, the band faced challenges after the album's release and was dropped by A&M later in 1973. They recorded a third album privately before disbanding in 1975.

Conclusion

Byzantium's Seasons Changing was released as a vinyl LP by A&M Records in May 1973.