Rare Bird

Label: Polydor
Country: UK
Released: 1973
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

Rare Bird's album "Somebody's Watching" was released in 1973 under the Polydor label, catalog number 2383 211. This fourth studio LP by the British progressive rock band features a mix of hard rock and funk influences, showcasing their evolving sound. The album was recorded at Polydor Studios and Basing Street Studios in London.

Band Lineup and Contributors

The album marks the inclusion of Nic Potter on bass guitar, who previously played with Van der Graaf Generator. His addition strengthened the band’s rhythm section alongside drummer Fred Kelly. Vocalist and guitarist Steve Gould leads the group with his distinctive voice and instrumental contributions. He is joined by Dave Kaffinetti on keyboards, Ced Curtis on guitars, and Fred Kelly on percussion.

Guest contributions include John Wetton on guitar for the track "Dollars," as well as Latin percussionists Al Matthews, Sammi Abu, and Paul Holland. Backing vocals were provided by Paul Korda, Kevin Lamb, and Nicky James. The album's production credits list Rare Bird as the producers, with sound engineers including Andy Curtis and Brian Humphries.

Musical Style and Highlights

"Somebody's Watching" blends various genres, primarily rock and funk. The title track offers a dramatic funk-prog experience. The album also features a cover of Ennio Morricone's "Dollars," which incorporates elements from the theme of "A Few Dollars More." This track is a highlight, showcasing the band's ability to fuse genres effectively. The song features guest guitarist John Wetton, whose contribution enhances the track's complexity.

Other notable tracks include "Hard Time," which was written by Beach Boys members Blondie Chaplin and Ricky Fataar. The album comprises eight tracks, each contributing to the overall eclectic feel of the record. The combination of soaring melodies and intricate instrumentation reflects the band's artistic ambitions during this period.

Recording and Production Details

The album was recorded in 1973, utilizing various recording facilities in London. The production involved multiple engineers, ensuring a polished sound that captured the band's dynamic style. The diverse instrumentation, including electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards, and percussion, played a crucial role in the album's sonic landscape. The gatefold vinyl format allows for an immersive listening experience, accentuating the band's layered arrangements.

Somebody's Watching was recorded at Polydor Studios, London & Basing Street Studios, London, UK in 1973.

Tracklist

A1	Somebody's Watching Written-By – CurtisWritten-By – KaffinettiWritten-By – KellyWritten-By – Gould
A2	Third Time Around Written-By – CurtisWritten-By – KaffinettiWritten-By – KellyWritten-By – Gould
A3	Turn Your Head Written-By – CurtisWritten-By – KaffinettiWritten-By – KellyWritten-By – Gould
A4	More And More Written-By – CurtisWritten-By – KaffinettiWritten-By – KellyWritten-By – Gould
B1	Hard Time Written-By – ChaplinWritten-By – Fataar
B2	Who Is The Hero Written-By – Lamb*
B3	High In The Morning Written-By – Korda*
B4	Dollars (Incorporating Extracts From A Few Dollars More) Written-By [A Few Dollars More] – MorriconeWritten-By [Dollars] – CurtisWritten-By [Dollars] – KaffinettiWritten-By [Dollars] – KellyWritten-By [Dollars] – Gould*