Stackridge - The Man In The Bowler Hat (2023 Remastered; Expanded Edition) (1974)

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 songwriting 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. Their second album, Friendliness, was issued in November 1972, the album and subsequent tours with fellow Bristol act The Pigsty Hill Orchestra and latterly Camel, gained the band more dedicated followers.

The band’s third album, The Man in the Bowler Hat was produced by the legendary George Martin and is widely regarded as one of their finest works featuring material such as ‘The Road to Venezuela’, ‘The Last Plimsoll’, ‘Dangerous Bacon’ and the evocative ‘God Speed The Plough’.

This Esoteric Recordings edition has been expanded to include an additional CD which features all the recordings made by Stackridge for the BBC in 1973, including a performance for the Radio One In Concert programme in January 1973 and four tracks recorded for a Bob Harris show session in February 1973. The release features an illustrated booklet with exclusive band interviews and an essay by Mike Barnes.