Brand X

Label: Charisma
Country: UK
Released: 1980
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Exploring Brand X's "Do They Hurt?"

Released in April 1980, "Do They Hurt?" marks the fifth studio album from the British jazz-fusion ensemble Brand X. The album was issued through Charisma Records under catalog number CAS 1151. Recorded at Startling Studios in Ascot, Berkshire, this release reflects the band's commitment to intricate musical compositions and technical prowess. The recording sessions took place alongside those for their previous album, "Product."

Musical Composition and Style

This album features a complex lineup, often referred to as the "Complex Heavy Fusion Unit." Key members include Percy Jones on fretless bass guitar, Mike Clark on drums, Peter Robinson on keyboards, and John Goodsall on guitars. Each musician contributes to a sound that blends jazz-rock, fusion, and jazz-funk elements. The album opens with "Noddy Goes To Sweden," which combines quirky vocals with Jones' fluid fretless bass style. Other standout tracks include the melodic "Voidarama" and the atmospheric "Fragile."

The track "Triumphant Limp" showcases guest appearances by Phil Collins on drums and Robin Lumley on piano, further enriching the album's diverse sound palette. "D.M.Z.," the album's centerpiece, runs for 8:39 minutes and illustrates the band's ability to create dark, compelling narratives through music.

Production and Artwork

Produced by Neil Kernon and Brand X, the album's engineering was also handled by Kernon at Startling Studios. The artwork, designed by the renowned Hipgnosis, adds a visual layer to the album's intriguing themes, while the title is a nod to a Monty Python quote voiced by Michael Palin in the liner notes. This clever reference adds a touch of humor to the otherwise serious musical exploration.

Lineup and Contributions

The primary lineup features Percy Jones' unique fretless bass approach, which is complemented by the intricate drumming of Mike Clark. Peter Robinson's synthesizer work and John Goodsall's guitar riffs create a dynamic musical environment. Additional contributions from musicians like Morris Pert enhance the percussion elements in tracks like "Noddy Goes To Sweden" and "Fragile." This collaborative spirit showcases the band's versatility across different styles.

Brand X's "Do They Hurt?" was recorded during April and May of 1979, capturing a moment in time for this influential group. The album remains a testament to their innovative fusion of jazz and rock elements.

Tracklist

A1	Noddy Goes To Sweden Bass, Vocals – Percy JonesDrums – Mike ClarkKeyboards – Peter RobinsonWritten-By – P. Jones*
A2	Voidarama Bass – John GiblinDrums – Phil CollinsGuitar – John GoodsallKeyboards – Peter RobinsonPiano – Robin LumleyWritten-By – J. Goodsall*
A3	Act Of Will Bass – Percy JonesDrums, Vocals – Mike ClarkGuitar, Alto Vocals – John GoodsallKeyboards – Peter RobinsonWritten-By – J. Goodsall*
A4	Fragile Bass – Percy JonesDrums – Mike ClarkGuitar – John GoodsallKeyboards – Peter RobinsonWritten-By – P. JonesWritten-By – P. Robinson
B1	Cambodia Bass – Percy JonesDrums – Mike ClarkGuitar – John GoodsallKeyboards, Tam-tam – Peter RobinsonWritten-By – J. Goodsall*
B2	Triumphant Limp Bass – John GiblinDrums – Phil CollinsGuitar – John GoodsallKeyboards – Robin LumleySynthesizer, Tam-tam – Peter RobinsonWritten-By – J. GiblinWritten-By – J. GoodsallWritten-By – P. CollinsWritten-By – R. Lumley
B3	D M Z Bass – Percy JonesDrums – Mike ClarkGuitar – John GoodsallKeyboards – Peter RobinsonWritten-By – P. Jones*