Skin Alley

Label: Transatlantic Records
Country: UK
Released: 1973
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

In 1973, British progressive jazz-rock quartet Skin Alley released their fourth studio album, titled Skintight. This album was issued under Transatlantic Records in the UK (TRA 273) and Stax in the US (STS-3022). The recording was an ambitious blend of British progressive rock and American soul influences, showcasing the band's ability to fuse various musical styles.

Production Insights

Skintight was produced by Don Nix, a notable figure in the Memphis music scene. Nix was known for his work with artists such as Leon Russell and Freddie King. His production brought a distinct Southern flavor to the album, merging it with the band's British art-rock sensibilities. The album was recorded at Chipping Norton Recording Studios in Oxfordshire, with remixing handled by John Fry at Ardent Studios in Memphis, Tennessee.

Musical Composition

The album features ten tracks that range from rock to jazz-infused pieces. Noteworthy songs include "Broken Eggs" and "What Good Does It Do?", which are highlighted by punchy brass arrangements contributed by The Lounge Lizards' horn section, arranged by Phil Kenzie. Nick Graham's ARP synthesizer adds a unique electronic texture, particularly in tracks like "Maverick Woman Blues," a composition by Don Nix. The band members brought diverse instrumental skills to the project, with Nick Graham providing bass guitar and lead vocals, while Bob James contributed various guitars and saxophones.

Band Lineup

The lineup for this album included key musicians such as Nick Graham, who was formerly part of Atomic Rooster, and Bob James, known for his versatility on multiple instruments. Krzysztof-Henryk Justkiewicz played the Hammond organ and accordion, while Tony Knight provided drums and percussion. The guest horn section added depth to the arrangements, enhancing the album's rich sound palette.

Recording Location

Skin Alley recorded Skintight at Chipping Norton Recording Studios, a facility known for its high-quality sound and notable recordings during the 1970s. The studio played a significant role in shaping the album's sonic identity.

Tracklist

A1	If I Only Had The Time Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Lead Vocals – BobBass, Vocals – NickDrums, Percussion, Vocals – TonyElectric Piano – KrzysztofWritten-By – Bob James	3:50
A2	At A Quarter To One Bass – NickDrums, Percussion – TonyElectric Guitar, Lead Vocals – BobPiano – KrzysztofWritten-By – Bob James	3:51
A3	How Long Accordion – KrzysztofBacking Vocals – BobBacking Vocals – TonyPiano, Bass, Lead Vocals – NickWritten-By – Nick Graham	3:28
A4	Surprise Awakening Alto Saxophone, Electric Guitar, Backing Vocals – BobDrums, Percussion, Backing Vocals – TonyOrgan – KrzysztofPiano, Bass, Lead Vocals – NickWritten-By – Nick Graham	4:14
A5	Broken Eggs Arranged By [Brass] – Phil KenzieBaritone Saxophone – Dave CoxhillBrass – The Lounge LizardsDrums, Percussion, Backing Vocals – TonyElectric Guitar, Backing Vocals – BobElectric Piano, Backing Vocals [Backing Away Vocals] – KrzysztofPiano, Bass, Lead Vocals – NickTenor Saxophone – Geoff DriscollTenor Saxophone – Phil KenzieTrumpet, Flugelhorn – Bud ParkesTrumpet, Flugelhorn – Martin DroverWritten-By – JamesWritten-By – JuszkiewiczWritten-By – Knight*	4:05
B1	Maverick Woman Blues Bass, Lead Vocals – NickDrums, Percussion – TonyElectric Guitar, Slide Guitar – BobPiano, Organ – KrzysztofWritten-By – Don Nix	3:55
B2	The Heap Turns Human Bass, Piano, Synthesizer [A.r.p.], Lead Vocals – NickDrums, Percussion, Backing Vocals – TonyElectric Guitar, Backing Vocals – BobPiano – KrzysztofWritten-By – Nick Graham	3:50
B3	What Good Does It Do? Arranged By [Brass] – Phil KenzieBaritone Saxophone – Dave CoxhillBass, Synthesizer [A.r.p.], Backing Vocals – NickBrass – The Lounge LizardsDrums, Percussion, Backing Vocals – TonyElectric Guitar, Vocals – BobOrgan, Electric Piano – KrzysztofTenor Saxophone – Geoff DriscollTenor Saxophone – Phil KenzieTrumpet, Flugelhorn – Bud ParkesTrumpet, Flugelhorn – Martin DroverWritten-By – Bob James	5:02
B4	Mr Heavy Bass, Harmonica [Mouth Organ], Vocals – NickDrums, Percussion – TonyElectric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Vocals – BobPiano – KrzysztofWritten-By – Bob James	3:28
B5	Instermental Bass, Piano, Flute – NickDrums, Percussion – TonyElectric Guitar, Flute – BobOrgan, Electric Piano – KrzysztofWritten-By – Nick Graham	3:41