Barclay James Harvest – Baby James Harvest (Cherry Red Records, 2023)
The reinvigorated Barclay James Harvest’s seminal album, Baby James Harvest (Cherry Red Records, 2023), will be available as a 4CD/1Blu Ray remastered boxed set, poised to captivate progressive rock collectors and fans. This multifaceted offering delves into the very essence of this classic within the Barclay James Harvest discography.
This superb reissue commences with a pristine remaster of the original album mix, a delight for audiophiles. Yet, the journey doesn’t cease there; it also features new 5.1 Surround Sound and stereo mixes, meticulously crafted by Stephen W. Tayler.
Furthermore, this symphonic rock compendium extends its reach, retrieving hidden gems in the form of rare singles, delivering a treasure trove of bonus tracks. One of the highlights is the inclusion of both mono and stereo renditions of a BBC Radio One “In Concert” performance from 1972, featuring the remarkable synergy between Barclay James Harvest and the Symphony Orchestra, conducted by maestro Martyn Ford.
The visual companion includes an illustrated book, accompanied by an essay written by Keith and Monika Domone.
Baby James Harvest originally came out back in November 1972, a time when musical innovation knew no bounds. Although the majority of the recording was made at Strawberry Studios in Stockport, the key piece ‘Moonwater’ features the accompaniment of a full orchestra, recorded at the famed Abbey Road Studios.
This album marked the culmination of Barclay James Harvest’s tenure with EMI’s iconic Harvest label, weaving together intricate progressive rock compositions such as ‘Summer Soldier,’ ‘One Hundred Thousand Smiles Out,’ and ‘Delph Town Morn.’
Musicians: John Lees on vocals, lead guitar, acoustic & 12-string guitars, effects; Stuart “Woolly” Wolstenholme on piano, Mellotron, organ, vocals, bells & tam-tam; Les Holroyd on bass, organ, Mellotron, piano, acoustic guitar, vocals; and Mel Pritchard on drums & percussion.
Guests: Brass Ensemble with alto, tenor & baritone saxophones, trumpet, trombone & bass trombone; Brian Day, brass arranger & conductor; BJH Symphonic Orchestra; Martyn Ford, orchestral arrangements & conductor; John Bell, orchestral arrangements; Alan Travers, orchestra leader; and Peter Tattersall on effects.
Buy Baby James Harvest.