Stackridge - Friendliness (Expanded Edition / Remaster) (2023)

Digitally remastered and expanded two CD edition. This Esoteric Recordings edition has been expanded to include an additional CD which features four tracks issued as singles and the band's previously unreleased BBC Radio One In Concert performance from June 1972. Formed in Bristol in 1969, Stackridge were one of the most unique British bands of the era. Their initial line-up featured Andy Davis (guitar, keyboards, vocals), James Warren (guitar, vocals), James "Crun" Walter (bass), Michael "Mutter" Slater (flute, vocals), Michael Evans (violin) and Billy Bent (drums). Possessing a gift for melody, musicianship and a fine sense of humour and English eccentricity, their concerts were legendary. Throughout 1970 they honed their song writing and live act, appearing at the very first Glastonbury festival that year. In 1971, Crun Walter departed the band and James Warren assumed bass guitar duties. They signed to MCA Records and recorded their critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, issued in August that year. By 1972, Crun Walter had rejoined the band and Stackridge continued an endless series of concerts which gained them a loyal and fanatical following. The flavour of their live performances was captured on a recording for the BBC Radio In Concert series at the BBC Paris Theatre in London in June 1972, which debuted some tracks which would appear on their second album, 'Friendliness', recorded at Sound Techniques studio in Chelsea. Issued in November 1972, the album and subsequent tour with fellow Bristol act The Pigsty Hill Orchestra, gained the band more dedicated followers.