Anyone's Daughter

Album Overview

Released in 1981, "Piktors Verwandlungen" is the third album by the German progressive rock band Anyone's Daughter. This live recording was captured during a concert at the Konzerthaus in Heidenheim on January 18, 1981. The album was released under the Spiegelei label and is presented in a gatefold vinyl format. It spans approximately 40 minutes and reflects the band's inclination towards symphonic rock and concept albums.

Concept and Inspiration

The album is based on Hermann Hesse's 1922 fairy tale "Piktor's Metamorphoses." This story follows a young man named Piktor who embarks on a journey of transformation. He enters a paradise, becomes a tree, and ultimately merges with a flower to become a twin star. The narrative serves as a backdrop for the music, intertwining spoken word elements with rich musical textures.

Musical Composition

Anyone's Daughter self-financed the project, opting for a live recording to maintain the spontaneity and energy of a concert atmosphere. The album features Harald Bareth on lead vocals and bass guitar, delivering poetic narration that complements the musical journey. Matthias Ulmer plays keyboards, including grand piano and synthesizers, adding layers of sound that drive the symphonic elements. Uwe Karpa provides electric and acoustic guitar solos, reminiscent of styles associated with Steve Hackett. The dynamic rhythm section, featuring Kono Konopik on drums and percussion, supports the intricate arrangements throughout the performance.

Track Structure

The album is divided into two sides. The first side includes pieces such as "Piktor" and "Der Baum," while the second side continues the narrative with tracks that explore deeper themes like longing and transformation. Each section of music is designed to reflect different phases of Piktor's journey, enhancing the storytelling experience.

Recording and Production

Sound engineers Christoph Wertz and Johannes Wohlleben were responsible for capturing the live performance, ensuring that the nuances of the band's sound were preserved. The choice of a live recording format was a strategic decision, influenced by the band's desire to present an authentic interpretation of Hesse's story through their music.

Release Details

"Piktors Verwandlungen" serves as a representation of Anyone's Daughter's artistry and dedication to their craft. The album was released in Germany under the catalog number INT 145.633.