Framus 5

Introduction to Framus 5's "Mesto Er"

In 1971, the Czechoslovak band Framus 5 released their album "Mesto Er" under the Supraphon label. This record features a blend of rock genres, including blues rock, psychedelic rock, and progressive rock. The band, co-founded by vocalist Michal Prokop, expanded its lineup in the early 1970s, incorporating new members that contributed to a more intricate sound.

Musical Composition and Themes

"Mesto Er" consists of six tracks that explore varied musical landscapes. The title track, which shares its name with the album, features lyrics by Josef Kainar and music composed by Ladislav Elias, Michal Prokop, and Petr Hannig. This track sets the tone for the album with its complex arrangements and thought-provoking lyrics.

On the B-side, "Tys Kamen," written by Michal Prokop, showcases the band's lyrical depth. Other notable tracks include "Placu," with music and lyrics by Petr Hannig, and "Kapela," featuring lyrics by Eduard Krecmar. Each song contributes to the album's overall narrative, with various themes and styles that reflect the era's musical experimentation.

Recording and Production Details

The recording sessions for "Mesto Er" took place between December 2-4, 1970, and January 20, 1971, at the Supraphon studio located in Dejvice, Prague. The production was overseen by Hynek Zalcik, and the album features contributions from several musicians. Ladislav Elias, Lubos Nyvlt, and Michal Blaha played bass guitar on different tracks, while Jaroslav Sedivy and Karel Jahn provided drumming. Lubos Andrst played guitar, and Ivan Trnka contributed on keyboards. The orchestration on the title track was done by Petr Hannig, who also played organ.

Cover Art and Presentation

The album's cover artwork and photography were created by Alan and O. Pajer, adding a visual element to the music that reflects the artistic spirit of the time. The presentation of "Mesto Er" aligns with the psychedelic influences present in the music, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Conclusion

Framus 5's "Mesto Er" was released in 1971 as a vinyl LP album. The record showcases a blend of rock genres and features complex musical arrangements.