Island

Overview of "Pictures"

"Pictures" is the only studio album released by the Swiss avant-garde progressive rock band Island. It was recorded in 1977 at Sonic Studio in Rome and Tonstudio Sinus in Bern. The album was released in the same year by Round Records, catalog number RR 001.

Production Details

The album was produced by Claudio Fabi, who is known for his work with the Italian band PFM. Mixing was handled by Ezio De Rosa, while the engineering team included Carlo Martenet, Ezio De Rosa, and Mario Carulli. The album features a striking cover artwork titled "Passagen-Tempel" by H.R. Giger, the Swiss surrealist artist famous for his designs in films such as "Alien" and the album cover for Emerson, Lake & Palmer's "Brain Salad Surgery."

Band Lineup

Island consists of a unique four-piece lineup that does not include a bassist. Benjamin Jäger takes on lead vocals and percussion, while Peter Scherer contributes with Hammond organ, Clavinet, acoustic piano, Moog synthesizer, bass pedals, and crotales, alongside backing vocals. Scherer later became a recognized figure in the New York downtown music scene. René Fisch plays soprano and tenor saxophones, flute, and clarinet, as well as backing vocals. Güge Jürg Meier completes the lineup with drums, gong, and percussion, previously a member of the band Deaf.

Musical Style and Themes

The music of "Pictures" blends different genres, drawing influences from various progressive rock styles. The album exhibits the emotional intensity characteristic of Van der Graaf Generator and the complex polyphonic arrangements reminiscent of Gentle Giant. Additionally, it incorporates dissonant elements from the Canterbury and Rock in Opposition (RIO) scenes. The intricate keyboard basslines and grand church organ sounds provided by Scherer form a solid foundation for the band's sound.

Track Highlights

The album features five tracks, including a lengthy title piece, "Pictures," which spans 17 minutes. Other tracks include "Zero," "Herold And King / Dloreh," and "Here And Now." Each composition contributes to the album's overall experimental approach and diverse sonic palette.

Recording Locations

"Pictures" was recorded in two studios: Sonic Studio in Rome and Tonstudio Sinus in Bern, capturing the essence of the band's innovative style.