Rupert Hine

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

Exploring Rupert Hine's "Unfinished Picture"

Released in 1973, "Unfinished Picture" is the second solo album by British musician Rupert Hine. This album was issued on Purple Records under the catalog number TPSA 7509. It was recorded at AIR Studios in London, a well-regarded facility known for its high-quality production. Hine self-produced the project, collaborating closely with lyricist David MacIver and sound engineer Steve Nye.

Musical Composition and Collaborations

"Unfinished Picture" features a blend of rock, folk rock, and progressive elements. The album showcases Hine's versatility as he plays lead vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, organ, and synthesizers. The collaboration with Simon Jeffes, who contributed guitars and orchestration, adds depth to the sound. Jeffes would later achieve fame founding the Penguin Cafe Orchestra.

The album includes contributions from several well-known musicians. Michael Giles, the founding drummer of King Crimson, plays on the track "On The Waterline." Micky Waller, known for his work with the Jeff Beck Group, brings his drumming expertise to "Orange Song" and "Don't Be Alarmed." Additionally, John Perry from Caravan plays bass guitar, while Ray Cooper, a percussionist associated with Elton John, adds texture to the album.

Track Highlights

The opening track, "Orange Song," is vibrant and brassy, setting an energetic tone for the album. In contrast, "Doubtfully Grey" explores melancholic themes, while "Anvils In Five" showcases Hine's experimental inclination with its neoclassical structure. The album concludes with the seven-minute piece "On The Waterline," which encapsulates the diverse musical styles present throughout the record.

Production Techniques

Steve Nye served not only as the sound engineer but also as a keyboardist on the album. His expertise helped shape the sonic landscape of "Unfinished Picture." The involvement of multiple engineers, including John Punter and John Middleton, ensured a polished final product. The orchestral arrangements were executed by the Martyn Ford Ensembles, further enhancing the album's complexity.

Rupert Hine's "Unfinished Picture" was released in the UK in 1973 by Purple Records.

Tracklist

A1	Orange Song Bass – John PerryDrums – Micky WallerGuitar [All Guitars] – Simon JeffesMusic By – Rupert HineMusic By – Simon JeffesOrchestrated By – Simon JeffesStrings – The Martyn Ford Orange Ensemble*Trombone [& Trombonium] – John MumfordTrumpet, Trumpet [Soprano] – Dave Cass
A2	Doubtfully Grey Acoustic Guitar, Other [Bellows] – Rupert HineBass, Acoustic Guitar, Glockenspiel – Simon JeffesPerformer [Skull] – John PunterStrings – The Martyn Ford Grey Ensemble*
A3	Don't Be Alarmed Acoustic Guitar – Rupert HineBass, Acoustic Guitar – John PerryDrums – Micky WallerElectric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar – Simon Jeffes
A4	Where In My Life Synthesizer [Arp] – Rupert Hine
A5	Anvils In Five Conductor – Gilbert BiberianMusic By – Rupert HineMusic By – Simon JeffesOrchestra – The Martyn Ford Anvil Orchestra & QuartetOrchestrated By – Simon JeffesOrgan [Church] – Rupert Hine
B1	Friends And Lovers Piano – Rupert Hine
B2	Move Along Bass – John Perry*Congas, Tambourine, Cabasa [& Ass's Jaw] – Ray CooperElectric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar – Simon JeffesElectric Piano, Harmonica – Rupert Hine
B3	Concorde(e) Pastich(e) Drums – John PunterElectric Piano – Steve NyeGuitar [All Guitars] – Simon JeffesMusic By – Rupert HineMusic By – Simon JeffesPiano, Organ – Rupert HineStrings – The Martyn Ford Spontaneous Music Ensemble*
B4	On The Waterline Congas – Ray CooperDrums – Mike Giles*Piano, Electric Piano, Organ, Other [Spinnet] – Rupert Hine