SFF - Sunburst (1977) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: Brain
Country: Germany
Released: 1977
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Album Overview

"Sunburst," released in 1977, is the second studio album by the German trio Schicke Führs & Fröhling (SFF). This album was issued under the Brain label, catalog number 60.057. The group consists of Eduard Schicke on drums and percussion, Gerhard Führs on various keyboards including Moog synthesizer and Mellotron, and Heinz Fröhling on electric and acoustic guitars. Guest musician Eduard Brumund-Rüther contributed bass guitar on several tracks, adding depth to the sound.

Recording and Production

The album was recorded in Spring 1977 at Dierks Studios in Stommeln, Germany. Dieter Dierks, known for his work with other prominent acts, produced and mixed the album. The sound engineering was managed by Gerd Rautenbach and Heinz Friesz, ensuring a polished and dynamic output. The recording sessions captured the band's rich instrumentation and intricate arrangements.

Musical Style and Composition

"Sunburst" builds upon the lush, symphonic sound established in SFF's debut album, "Symphonic Pictures." This release incorporates tighter jazz-fusion grooves and features guitar solos reminiscent of bands like Mahavishnu Orchestra and Return to Forever. The use of the Mellotron creates an expansive soundscape, while the Clavinet and Fender Rhodes add a funk-infused layer to the music. The composition features seven tracks that explore a range of styles, from the explosive opening piece "Wizzard" to the atmospheric "Autumn Sun In Cold Water." The album also includes the intricate "1580" and the space-fusion closer "Explorer."

Context and Influences

The sound of "Sunburst" draws comparisons to the works of other progressive bands such as Genesis, Brand X, and Camel. The interplay of jazz elements with rock sensibilities reflects the broader musical landscape of the late 1970s. This album showcases the band's ability to blend complex arrangements with accessible melodies, making it a unique entry in the Krautrock and symphonic rock genres.

Conclusion

The album was produced by Dieter Dierks at Dierks Studios in Stommeln, Germany.

Tracklist

A1	Wizzard Bass – Eduard Brumund-RutherDrums – Eduard SchickeElectric Guitar – Heinz FröhlingSynthesizer [Moog], Electric Piano, Clavinet, Mellotron – Gerhard FührsWritten-By – FührsWritten-By – Fröhling*	4:25
A2	Autumn Sun In Cold Water Drums – Eduard SchickeElectric Guitar – Heinz FröhlingSynthesizer [Moog], Mellotron, Electric Piano – Gerhard FührsWritten-By – Fröhling*	4:46
A3	Artificial Energy Bass – Eduard Brumund-RutherElectric Guitar – Heinz FröhlingPercussion – Eduard SchickeSynthesizer [Moog], Mellotron – Gerhard FührsWritten-By – SchickeWritten-By – FührsWritten-By – FröhlingWritten-By – SFF	5:30
A4	Driftin' Clavinet, Mellotron, Synthesizer [Stringensemble] – Heinz FröhlingDrums, Triangle – Eduard SchickeSynthesizer [Moog], Electric Piano, Synthesizer [Moog], Synthesizer [Stringensemble] – Gerhard FührsWritten-By – FührsWritten-By – Fröhling	3:15
B1	Troja Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar – Heinz FröhlingBass – Eduard Brumund-RutherDrums – Eduard SchickeSynthesizer [Moog], Mellotron, Electric Piano, Clavinet – Gerhard FührsWritten-By – Fröhling	7:20
B2	1580 Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar – Heinz FröhlingBass – Eduard Brumund-RutherDrums, Percussion – Eduard SchickeGrand Piano – Gerhard FührsWritten-By – Fröhling	5:15
B3	Explorer Bass – Eduard Brumund-RutherDrums – Eduard SchickeElectric Guitar – Heinz FröhlingSynthesizer [Moog], Mellotron, Electric Piano – Gerhard FührsWritten-By – FührsWritten-By – Fröhling*	4:55