Galliard

Label: Deram
Country: UK
Released: 1969
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to Galliard's "Strange Pleasure"

Galliard's debut album, "Strange Pleasure," was released in 1969 on the Deram Nova label. This album marked the emergence of a unique sound, blending elements of folk rock, brass rock, and psychedelic rock. The band hails from Birmingham, UK, and consists of six members, each contributing distinct musical elements to the project.

Musical Composition and Influences

The band's lineup includes Geoff Brown on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Richard Pannell on lead guitar and lute, and Andy Abbott on bass guitar. The rhythm section features Les Podraza on drums, with the brass component delivered by Dave Caswell on trumpet and John Smith on saxophones. This combination creates a rich sound that incorporates jazz-rock influences reminiscent of bands like Chicago and Blood Sweat & Tears.

Tracks such as "A Modern Day Fairy Tale" and "I Wrapped Her In Ribbons" highlight the band's ability to weave together complex musical themes. The use of electronic effects and tempo shifts adds depth to their sound. The song "Frog Galliard" showcases an Elizabethan dance influence, while "Hear The Colours" features psychedelic guitar work. Galliard’s music often juxtaposes pastoral folk elements with more energetic brass arrangements.

Production Details

The album was produced by Phil Wainman and engineered by Dave Grinsted at Decca Studios. The production quality reflects the era's experimentation with sound, employing both traditional and modern techniques. The cover illustration by Dave Anstey adds a visual element that complements the band's artistic vision.

Track Highlights

While the album contains various distinct tracks, "Children Of The Sun" and "Got To Make It" stand out for their engaging melodies and lyrical content. Each track presents a different facet of Galliard's eclectic style, appealing to fans of multiple genres. The combination of brass instrumentation and folk-rock sensibilities creates a diverse listening experience throughout the album.

Conclusion

Galliard's "Strange Pleasure" was released on vinyl LP format in the UK in 1969.

Tracklist

A1	Skillet Written-By – Brown*
A2	A Modern Day Fairy Tale Written-By – Brown*
A3	Pastorale Written-By – Caswell*
A4	I Wrapped Her In Ribbons Written-By – Brown*
A5	Children Of The Sun Written-By – Brown*
B1	Got To Make It Written-By – Caswell*
B2	Frog Galliard Written-By – Brown*
B3	Blood Written-By – Brown*
B4	Hear The Colours Written-By – Brown*
B5	I Wanna Be Back Home Written-By – Brown*

Credits

Bass Guitar, Lead Vocals [Some] – Andy Abbott
Drums, Percussion – Les Podreza*
Engineer – Dave Grinsted
Illustration – Dave Anstey*
Lead Guitar, Twelve-String Guitar, Effects [Electronic], Lute, Backing Vocals [Occasional] – Richard Pannel*
Producer – Phil Wainman
Rhythm Guitar – Geoff Brown
Tenor Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – John Smith
Trumpet, Backing Vocals – Dave Caswell