Cardiacs

Label: The Alphabet Business Concern
Country: UK
Released: 1989
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Album Overview

"On Land And In The Sea" is the third studio album by the English band Cardiacs, released on May 2, 1989. This album was distributed through the band's label, The Alphabet Business Concern, under the catalog number ALPH LP012. The lineup during this recording consisted of Tim Smith (guitar and vocals), Jim Smith (bass), Sarah Smith (saxophone), William D. Drake (keyboards), Tim Quy (percussion), and Dominic Luckman (drums).

Recording Details

The album was recorded and mixed in 1988 at The Slaughterhouse studios located in Yorkshire. The production work was led by Tim Smith. The album reflects a blend of various genres including electronic, rock, synth-pop, and avant-garde influences. The unique sound of Cardiacs combines the raw energy of punk with the intricate structures of progressive rock.

Track Highlights

"On Land And In The Sea" features several tracks that illustrate the band's eclectic style. "Two Bites Of Cherry" opens the album with a punchy rhythm, followed by "Baby Heart Dirt," which showcases the band's characteristic vocal harmonies. "The Duck And Roger The Horse" stands out for its whimsical lyrics, while "The Stench Of Honey" presents a more complex arrangement. The final track, "The Alphabet Business Concern," encapsulates the diverse musical elements present throughout the album.

Aftermath

This album marked the end of the six-piece lineup for Cardiacs. Following its release, key members William D. Drake, Tim Quy, and Sarah Smith departed from the band. The remaining members, Tim Smith, Jim Smith, and Dominic Luckman, continued to shape Cardiacs' future sound.

Technical Credits

Engineers Graham Simmonds and Roger Tebbutt played significant roles in the sound quality of the album. The live sound engineering was also handled by Graham Simmonds. The visual elements were captured by photographer Steve Payne, contributing to the album's presentation.

Release Format

This album was released in vinyl format as an LP. The choice of format aligns with the band's commitment to the raw sound that vinyl provides. "On Land And In The Sea" is a product of a specific moment in music history, reflecting the experimental spirit of the late 1980s.

Tracklist

A1	Two Bites Of Cherry Written-By – T. Smith*
A2	Baby Heart Dirt Written-By – T. Smith*
A3	The Leader Of The Starry Skys Written-By – T. Smith*
A4	I Hold My Love In My Arms Written-By – T. SmithWritten-By – W.D. Drake
A5	The Duck And Roger The Horse Written-By – T. Smith*
A6	Arnald Written-By – T. Smith*
A7	Fast Robert Written-By – T. Smith*
B1	Mare's Nest Written-By – T. SmithWritten-By – W.D. Drake
B2	The Stench Of Honey Written-By – T. Smith*
B3	Buds And Spawn Written-By – T. Smith*
B4	The Safety Bowl Written-By – T. Smith*
B5	The Everso Closely Guarded Line Written-By – T. SmithWritten-By – W.D. Drake
B6	The Alphabet Business Concern Written-By – The A.B. Concern*