Stackridge

Label: The Rocket Record Company
Country: UK
Released: 1974
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Exploring Stackridge's Extravaganza

"Extravaganza," released in January 1975, marks the fourth studio album by the eclectic English band Stackridge. This album is notable for being the first release under Elton John's label, The Rocket Record Company. Recorded in 1974 at AIR Studios in London, the album showcases a significant shift in the band's musical style following the departure of founding members James Warren and Mike Evans.

A New Lineup

The band reformed with a new lineup that included woodwind specialist Keith Gemmell, previously of Audience, bassist Paul Karas from Rare Bird, keyboardist Rod Bowkett, and drummer Roy Morgan. This restructuring allowed Stackridge to explore a broader range of musical influences. The resulting sound blends elements of jazz-rock, art-rock, and British music hall traditions, moving away from their earlier acoustic-pastoral folk style.

Musical Diversity

"Extravaganza" features ten tracks, each offering a unique listening experience. The infectious single "Spin Round The Room" stands out with its catchy melody and upbeat tempo. Other tracks like "Grease Paint Smiles" and "The Volunteer" continue to showcase the band's playful yet sophisticated approach to songwriting. The instrumental piece "Pocket Billiards" exemplifies their jazz-rock influences, while "Rufus T. Firefly" pays tribute to the Marx Brothers with its whimsical lyrics and theatrical flair. The album closes with "Who's That Up There With Bill Stokes?", an eccentric piece that encapsulates the band's distinctive style.

Production and Arrangement

The album was produced by Stackridge alongside Tony Ashton, who is known for his work with Ashton, Gardner, and Dyke. The use of Mellotron and a variety of woodwinds enriches the album's textures, creating a lush soundscape. This production choice aligns well with the band's artistic vision, allowing them to experiment with complex arrangements and intricate melodies.

"Extravaganza" is a testament to Stackridge's ability to evolve and adapt their sound. The album's release on The Rocket Record Company further highlights its significance within the context of 1970s British rock. It is a multifaceted work that continues to intrigue listeners with its blend of genres and innovative instrumentation.

The album was recorded at AIR Studios in London in 1974.

Tracklist

A1	Spin 'Round The Room Written-By – Lucy VernonWritten-By – Rod Bowkett
A2	Grease Paint Smiles Written-By – BathosWritten-By – Rod Bowkett
A3	The Volunteer Written-By – Andy DavisWritten-By – Smegmakovitch
A4	Highbury Incident (Rainy July Morning) Written-By – Andy DavisWritten-By – Mutter SlaterWritten-By – Rod Bowkett
A5	Benjamins Giant Onion Written-By – BathosWritten-By – Rod Bowkett
A6	Happy In The Lord Written-By – Phil Welton
B1	Rufus T. Firefly Written-By – Rod Bowkett
B2	No One's More Important Than The Earthworm Written-By – Gordon Haskell
B3	Pocket Billiards Written-By – Rod Bowkett
B4	Who's That Up There With Bill Stokes? Written-By – Andy DavisWritten-By – Rod Bowkett