Daddy Longlegs

Label: Vertigo
Country: UK
Released: 1971
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

Daddy Longlegs released their second studio album, Oakdown Farm, in 1971. This album came out under the Vertigo label, known for its distinctive "swirl" logo. The catalog number for this release is 6360 038. The band, originally formed in the United States, had relocated to a communal farmhouse in Sussex, UK, which influenced their musical direction.

Band Lineup and Recording

The album features a revised lineup of the band. Peter Arnesen, a classical and boogie pianist, served as the vocalist. He was joined by Gary 'Norton' Holderman, who played guitar and provided vocals. The rhythm section included Kurt Palomaki on bass and clarinet, alongside drummer Clif Carrison. The production was handled by Tod Lloyd, with Tim Sharman as the executive producer. The engineering took place at Sound Techniques in Chelsea, London, with Jerry Boys at the helm.

Musical Style and Content

Oakdown Farm blends various musical styles including rustic Appalachian country rock, honky-tonk piano boogie, and rural folk ballads. The twelve tracks feature a range of instrumentation, including clarinet fills and playful Moog synthesizer elements. Notable songs from the album include "Rubber Tyre", "Double Decker", and "Gambling Man". The eclectic mix reflects the band's diverse influences and their communal living situation, which likely fostered creativity.

Visual Presentation

The gatefold sleeve of Oakdown Farm features a surrealist design, created by the design group Hipgnosis. This distinctive artwork adds an intriguing visual element to the album, complementing its musical content. The attention to the album's presentation indicates a blend of artistic vision and musical exploration.

Conclusion

Daddy Longlegs' Oakdown Farm was released in 1971 and features twelve tracks that explore various musical styles.

Tracklist

A1	Rubber Tyre Written-By – DeanWritten-By – Arnesen
A2	Double Decker Written-By – Palomaki*
A3	Please Believe Me Written-By – DeanWritten-By – Arnesen
A4	Lonely Way Written-By – DeanWritten-By – Arnesen
A5	Sweet Louise Written-By – DeanWritten-By – Arnesen
A6	Wheeling & Dealing Written-By – Holderman*
B1	Rusty Door Written-By – CarrisonWritten-By – HoldermanWritten-By – Palomaki*
B2	Gambling Man Written-By – Palomaki*
B3	Clara Bell Written-By – Holderman*
B4	Night Shift Written-By – Carrison*
B5	Moog Written-By – Arnesen*
B6	Boogie Arranged By – HoldermanWritten-By – Trad.