In the vibrant music scene of the 1970s, Stackridge, a Bristol-based prog band, found themselves in a dream scenario. With their unique blend of pop, rock, and humor, they were about to embark on a journey that would see them in the studio with none other than George Martin, the legendary producer and fifth Beatle. This is the story of Stackridge's encounter with the man who shaped their sound and their unexpected chart success with the album, The Man In The Bowler Hat.
A Band's Rise and a Dream Come True
Stackridge, initially comprised of Andrew Cresswell-Davis, James Warren, James 'Crun' Walter, Michael 'Mutter' Slater, Mike Evans, and Billy 'Sparkle' Bent, had already made a name for themselves in the Bristol music scene. Their sound, a playful mix of Beatles, Frank Zappa, and The Incredible String Band, was a breath of fresh air in the rock du jour landscape. With a unique style that blended classical, tea dance, and music hall influences, they positioned themselves as a slapstick alternative to the popular rock bands of the time.
The Studio Experience
The band's creative life was a shoestring affair, with most members and their roadie sharing a flat in Clifton, Bristol. But when the opportunity arose to work with George Martin, they were ready. The band was invited to Martin's place in Paddington, and most of the members, except Cresswell-Davis, who had married, were relocated to Stansfield Road, Stockwell. The studio experience was nothing short of magical, with Martin's guidance and the band's creativity coming together to produce an album that would surprise and delight.
The Album: The Man In The Bowler Hat
The album, The Man In The Bowler Hat, was a wide-ranging collection of songs, each with its own unique style. The band was encouraged to come up with musical ideas, and much of the lyric writing was done by a partnership of Warren, Walter, and Slater. The compositions were credited to the charmingly named 'Smegmakovitch', while whole group co-writes went under 'Wabadaw Sleeve', an anagram of the members' names. The album opener, Fundamentally Yours, was a lovely tune by Davis, followed by the nostalgic Pinafore Days, written by Slater, who was now composing on piano as well as flute.
A Chart Success Story
The release of The Man In The Bowler Hat was delayed due to the OPEC oil crisis, but when it finally came out in February 1974, it was a chart success. The band's personality differences had already led to a different line-up touring the record, and some members were shocked by the album's release. But for Slater, the chart success was a dream come true, and the studio experience had been exceptional.
A Lasting Legacy
Stackridge may have dissolved after 1976's Mr Mick, but their catalogue is beloved by many. The band reunited from 2006 to 2015, and their sound continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Warren, reflecting on the album, says, 'We learned the possibilities of what the studio can offer. You can create magic there, but you have to pay attention to details.' This lesson was applied to the first self-titled album by The Korgis, formed by Warren and Davis in 1979, and the band's sound continues to evolve.
A Personal Reflection
As a journalist and music industry lecturer, I find Stackridge's story fascinating. The band's unique sound and their journey to the studio with George Martin is a testament to the power of creativity and the magic that can be created in the studio. Their chart success, despite the challenges they faced, is a reminder that dreams can come true, even in the most unexpected ways. From my perspective, Stackridge's story is a reminder that music is a universal language that can bring people together, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
