Brainstorm

Exploring "Second Smile" by Brainstorm

Released in 1973, "Second Smile" is the second and final studio album by the German band Brainstorm. Hailing from Baden-Baden, the album was recorded at Studio 70 in Munich between March and June of that year. The vinyl LP, catalog number Spiegelei 28 785-4 U, showcases the band's ambition to blend various genres, including jazz, rock, and progressive influences.

Musical Composition and Style

Brainstorm’s music on this album leans heavily into the realms of jazz-rock and progressive rock, with elements of Krautrock and the Canterbury Scene evident throughout. The band features a diverse lineup, with Roland Schaeffer handling soprano and tenor saxophones, clarinet, guitars, and vocals. Eddy von Overheidt contributes with Hammond organ and electric piano, while Enno Dernov joins as a guest bassist, allowing Rainer Bodensohn to focus on concert and bass flutes.

The album consists of six tracks, each exhibiting the band's technical prowess and creative flair. The opener, "Hirnwind," delivers a high-energy start, while "Herbst" introduces a more introspective vibe. The track "My Way" extends to 8:12 minutes, showcasing intricate arrangements and skilled musicianship. "Affenzahn" presents a dynamic shift, leading into the ambitious suite "There Was A Time," which lasts 7:09 minutes. The album culminates in the experimental "Marilyn Monroe," clocking in at 8:32 minutes, pushing the boundaries of their jazz fusion sound.

Production and Engineering

The production of "Second Smile" was spearheaded by the band themselves, with sound engineers Jürgen Koppers and Sebastian Salm contributing to the recording process. Koppers, who later became known for his work with Giorgio Moroder, helped shape the album's sound. The album's cover design was a collaborative effort between Schaeffer and drummer Jo Koinzer, adding a visual element to the band's artistic expression.

Brainstorm's "Second Smile" was released under the Spiegelei label in 1973. The album’s recording sessions featured various instruments, including electric and acoustic guitars, flutes, and a range of keyboards.