"Here & Now" Album Description:
In the vibrant tapestry of 1970s English music, the Psychedelic, Progressive, and Space Rock genres flourished, giving birth to experimental and boundary-pushing sounds. Among the innovators of this era was the band "Here & Now," whose unique blend of psychedelic and progressive elements left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. This article delves into the time period of the 1970s, exploring the formation and creative journey of "Here & Now."
Formation and Influences:
"Here & Now" emerged from the creative cauldron of the early 1970s, a time when musical experimentation was at its zenith. Formed in 1974, the band was a product of the psychedelic and progressive movements that had gained momentum in the late 1960s. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Gong, a fellow experimental collective, "Here & Now" quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the burgeoning alternative music scene.
Collaboration with Gong:
One of the defining moments in the band's trajectory occurred in 1977 and 1978 when "Here & Now" collaborated with Gong's visionary figures, Daevid Allen and Gilli Smyth. The result of this collaboration was the formation of "Planet Gong," a musical entity that released the live album "Floating Anarchy 1977" and the single "Opium for the People." The synergy between the two bands amplified their sonic explorations, creating a celestial soundscape that resonated with fans of the era.
"ALL OVER THE SHOW" - A Sonic Journey:
The 12" Vinyl LP Album, titled "ALL OVER THE SHOW," stands as a testament to the band's prowess and experimental spirit. Released during the late 1970s, this album captures the essence of "Here & Now" at a pivotal point in their musical evolution. The tracks within this vinyl masterpiece serve as a sonic journey, taking the listener on a psychedelic odyssey through time and space.
Production and Artistic Vision:
The production of "ALL OVER THE SHOW" mirrors the band's commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional music. The album is a sonic collage, weaving together intricate instrumentals, cosmic soundscapes, and thought-provoking lyrics. The use of synthesizers, unconventional time signatures, and experimental arrangements showcases the band's dedication to artistic innovation.
| Album Cover Description:
The album cover for Here & Now’s All Over the Show presents a gritty, collage-like design that captures a punk-influenced, rebellious aesthetic. The composition features a scattered arrangement of items on a dark, textured background, reminiscent of a cluttered, lived-in space or a post-concert scene. Key elements include:
Crumpled beer cans and loose coins, which add a sense of casual disarray and suggest a raw, unpolished vibe.
Newspaper clippings with bold headlines like ‘PROTEST!’ and ‘Industry is a bloody mess,’ implying a political or countercultural message that resonates with themes of dissent and social critique.
Polaroid-style black-and-white photos of live performances, showcasing band members in action on stage. These images capture the energy of live music, reinforcing the album’s title, All Over the Show.
A concert ticket stub and a British £10 note, which add authenticity and a distinctly British touch, grounding the album in its live performance roots.
The bold white typography for the band name, HERE & NOW, and the album title, All Over the Show, stands out against the dark background, anchoring the chaotic yet purposeful design. The overall aesthetic effectively mirrors the energy of the band’s live performances and their alignment with social activism, delivering a visual experience that complements their music’s ethos. |
|
Music Genre:
English Psych/Acid/Punk Rock |
|
Album Production Information:
The album: "HERE & NOW - All Over The Show Live" was produced by: Here and Now
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): John Brierly |
|
Record Label & Catalognr: Charly Records NOW 2 |
|
Media Format:
12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
|
Year & Country:
1979 Made in UK |
