Eire Apparent

Release Overview

“Sunrise” is the sole studio album by the Northern Irish group Eire Apparent. Released in May 1969 under Buddah Records, this album captures the essence of psychedelic rock during a vibrant era for the genre. The band, originally formed in Belfast as The People, was led by Ernie Graham, who provided lead vocals and rhythm guitar. The lineup also featured Mick Cox on lead guitar, Chris Stewart on bass, and Davy Lutton on drums.

Production Details

The album was produced by Jimi Hendrix, who played electric guitar on several tracks, including “Yes, I Need Someone” and “The Clown.” Hendrix was a significant figure in the rock scene and brought his unique sound to the project. The recording sessions took place across multiple locations, including Record Plant in New York, TTG Studios in Los Angeles, and Olympic Studios in London. Notable engineers involved in the recording included Eddie Kramer and Garry Kellgren.

Collaborations and Contributions

In addition to Hendrix's contributions, the album features backing vocals from Robert Wyatt of The Soft Machine and Noel Redding, the bassist from The Jimi Hendrix Experience. String arrangements were crafted by Vic Briggs, a guitarist known for his work with Eric Burdon and The Animals. This collaboration enriched the album's sound, enhancing the psychedelic elements present throughout the tracks.

Musical Style and Themes

The ten tracks on “Sunrise” exhibit a mix of rock and psychedelic influences. Songs such as “Mr. Guy Fawkes” display a baroque-pop flair, while others like “Got To Get Away” and “Magic Carpet” delve into more traditional rock sounds. The lyrical themes often explore introspection and existential musings, common motifs in the psychedelic genre during this period.

Historical Context

Eire Apparent gained exposure by touring North America, opening for prominent acts like The Jimi Hendrix Experience and Soft Machine in 1968. This experience helped shape their sound and presence in the music scene. Despite the support and production by notable figures, “Sunrise” did not achieve commercial success and remains a hidden gem in the rock archives.

The album was recorded in 1968 across multiple studios and was released in May 1969.