Caravan

Album Overview

Caravan's eighth studio album, Better By Far, was released in July 1977 under Arista Records. This album marked a new chapter for the English progressive rock band as they introduced Dek Messecar as their new bassist. Messecar previously played with Darryl Way's Wolf. The lineup also included Pye Hastings on guitars and lead vocals, Geoffrey Richardson on various instruments like viola and flute, Jan Schelhaas on keyboards, and Richard Coughlan on drums.

Recording Details

The recording sessions took place between March and April 1977 at Utopia Studios in London. The album was produced and engineered by Tony Visconti, with Andy Jackson assisting him. Visconti contributed additional instrumentation, including recorder on the track "The Last Unicorn" and electric double bass on "Man in a Car." The album features a variety of musical textures and arrangements, showcasing the band's diverse influences.

Contributions and Collaborations

Alongside the core band members, several guest musicians contributed to Better By Far. Fiona Hibbert played harp on one of the tracks, while Vicki Brown added vocals to "Give Me More." These collaborations enriched the album's sound, adding layers of complexity to the already intricate arrangements.

Design and Artwork

The visual aspect of the album was handled by Bob Searles and John Dyer, who were responsible for the design and art direction. The artwork complements the music, reflecting the themes and styles present in the album's tracks.

Technical Specifications

Released in the format of vinyl LP, Better By Far has a catalog number SPARTY 1008. The album's production quality reflects the expertise of Visconti, known for his work with various high-profile artists. This attention to detail in both sound and presentation contributes to the album's unique character.