Riff Raff

Label: RCA Victor
Country: UK
Released: 1973
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to Riff Raff

Riff Raff is the self-titled debut album by the British jazz-rock supergroup Riff Raff, released in 1973 under the RCA Victor label (catalog number SF 8351). This album features a distinguished lineup led by keyboardist Tommy Eyre, known for his work with Joe Cocker and Aynsley Dunbar, and bassist Roger Sutton, who has connections to Nucleus and Brian Auger. The recording took place at The Manor Studios in Oxfordshire and Advision Studios in London, showcasing a blend of jazz, rock, and progressive elements.

Musical Composition and Style

The album merges intricate Canterbury-style arrangements with the driving force of brass rock. It features funky grooves from the Fender Rhodes electric piano, played by Eyre, alongside polyrhythmic drumming from Brazilian percussionist Aureo De Souza. Guitarist Pete Kirtley contributes both lead and acoustic guitar parts, enriching the album's sound. Each of the seven tracks presents a unique fusion of styles, with standout moments including the dynamic opener "Your World" and the serene "Dreaming."

Recording and Production

Tom Newman, known for his engineering work on Mike Oldfield's "Tubular Bells," handled the recording. The mixing was done by Eddy Offord, recognized for his roles with Yes and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. This collaboration resulted in a polished sound that highlights the band’s intricate arrangements and virtuosic performances. Riff Raff's music features diverse influences, reflecting both the jazz and rock traditions of the early 1970s.

Tracks and Themes

The album comprises seven tracks that explore a range of themes and musical styles. "La Même Chose," the centerpiece, extends for over eight minutes, showcasing the band's ability to blend jazz improvisation with rock dynamics. The lyrics and musical composition in "For Every Dog" and "You Must Be Joking" illustrate the band's wit and creativity, while "Times Lost" offers a more introspective mood.

Conclusion

Riff Raff's album was engineered by Tom Newman and mixed by Eddy Offord in 1973.

Tracklist

A1	Your World Written-By – Sutton*
A2	For Every Dog Written-By – Kirtley*
A3	Little Miss Drag Written-By – RichardsonWritten-By – SuttonWritten-By – Thorpe*
A4	Dreaming Written-By – Kirtley*
B1	Times Lost Written-By – Eyre*
B2	You Must Be Joking Written-By – Kirtley*
B3	La Même Chose Written-By – SuttonWritten-By – Eyre