CMU - Open Spaces (1971) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: Transatlantic Records
Country: UK
Released: 1971
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to CMU's "Open Spaces"

"Open Spaces" is the debut album from the British ensemble CMU, or Contemporary Music Unit, released in 1971 under Transatlantic Records (catalog TRA 236). The band originated from Cambridge and comprised a mix of musicians who brought diverse influences into their sound. This LP is presented as a gatefold vinyl, showcasing an innovative blend of progressive rock, jazz, and folk elements.

Musical Style and Composition

The album features a unique fusion of musical styles. It combines progressive rock's complexity with English folk's pastoral qualities and jazz improvisation. Larraine Odell and James Gordon share lead vocals, with Odell's wordless vocals adding an ethereal quality to several tracks. Terry Mortimer enhances the sound with his versatile keyboard playing, viola, and various guitar techniques. The instrumentation includes a mix of acoustic and electric elements, contributing to a rich sonic palette.

Track Highlights

Side one opens with "Henry," a track that sets the tone with inventive songcraft. Another standout is "Voodoo Man," which introduces a groovy, rhythmic quality. The “Slow And Lonesome Blues” provides a blues-infused exploration that leads into "Chantecleer," a six-minute prog-folk centerpiece showcasing the band's ability to blend genres seamlessly. Side two ventures into more experimental territory with "Japan," a miniature piece inspired by Eastern themes. The track "Clown" and "Mystical Sounds" further develop the adventurous spirit of the album. The title suite, "Open Spaces," spans over eleven minutes and features wordless vocal improvisations and avant-garde percussion.

Production Details

Produced by Jerry Boys at Sound Techniques studio in Chelsea, London, the album benefits from high-quality recording techniques. Boys is known for his work in the folk and progressive rock genres, and his expertise is evident in the album's sound quality. The album's cover art was designed by Paul Leeves, with photography by Paul Bamborough, adding a visual element to the music.

Conclusion

CMU's "Open Spaces" was recorded in early 1971 at Sound Techniques in Chelsea, London.

Tracklist

A1	Henry Bass – EdDrums – RogerLead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar, Flute – IanLead Vocals – LarrainePiano, Guitar, Organ, Backing Vocals – TerryWritten-By – L. OdellWritten-By – R. Odell*	4:42
A2	Voodoo Man Bass – EdDrums – RogerGuitar – IanGuitar [Fuzz], Electric Piano, Organ – TerryLead Vocals, Maracas, Tambourine, Percussion [Gadzoonka] – JamesLead Vocals, Tambourine – LarraineWritten-By – L. OdellWritten-By – R. Odell	4:31
A3	Slow And Lonesome Blues Bass, Guitar – EdDrums – RogerGuitar – IanGuitar – TerryWritten-By – Lee*	5:03
A4	Chantecleer Bass – EdDrums, Congas – RogerGuitar – IanGuitar, Organ, Guitar [Fuzz] – TerryLead Vocals – JamesVocals – LarraineWritten-By – LeeWritten-By – GordonWritten-By – L. OdellWritten-By – Mortimer	6:07
B1	Japan Arranged By – CMUBass – EdDrums – RogerGuitar – IanGuitar, Piano [Plucked], Backing Vocals – TerryTambourine, Backing Vocals – JamesVocals [Wordless] – LarraineWritten-By – Sanders*	2:42
B2	Clown Bass – EdDrums – RogerGuitar – IanLead Vocals – LarraineLead Vocals, Guitar [Bowed Freak Guitar] – TerryLead Vocals, Performer [Ambiance] – JamesWritten-By – LeeWritten-By – Gordon	2:31
B3	Mystical Sounds Bass – EdDrums – RogerFlute – IanGuitar, Piano – TerryVocals – LarraineWritten-By – L. OdellWritten-By – R. Odell*	3:09
B4	Open Spaces Bass, Glockenspiel, Percussion [Skulls] – RogerBells, Maracas – JamesGuitar – IanViola, Guitar [Binson], Vocals [Wordless] – TerryVocals [Wordless], Bells [Sleigh Bells] – LarraineWritten-By – LeeWritten-By – Mortimer*	11:31