- DECCA Records with Solid Red Record Label
"Nude" is the 1981 studio album by the English Prog Rock band "Camel". The album was recorded at the "Abbey Road Studios" and produced by Camel, Tony Clark, Haydn Bendall. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.
Emerging in the midst of a shifting musical landscape in 1981, the British progressive rock band Camel released their eighth studio album, "Nude". The album, a poignant concept piece, marked a significant departure from their earlier work, showcasing a newfound maturity and depth in their songwriting and musical exploration.
In the early 1980s, the music scene was undergoing a transformation. The dominance of progressive rock was waning, giving way to new wave and synth-pop. Despite these changes, Camel, known for their intricate compositions and instrumental virtuosity, chose to stay true to their roots, albeit with a fresh perspective.
"Nude" tells the compelling true story of Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier stranded on a remote island for decades after World War II, unaware that the conflict had ended. The album's title is a subtle reference to Onoda's surname, hinting at the vulnerability and isolation of his experience.
Musically, "Nude" was a departure from Camel's earlier albums. While their signature sound, characterized by Andrew Latimer's soaring guitar work and Andy Ward's dynamic drumming, remained intact, the album incorporated new elements. The use of cello, flute, and saxophone added a richness and depth to the music, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.
The album was met with critical acclaim, praised for its ambitious concept, evocative melodies, and sophisticated arrangements. However, it was not without controversy. Some critics found the album's subject matter to be too bleak and its lyrics to be overly sentimental. Despite these criticisms, "Nude" resonated with audiences, solidifying Camel's reputation as masters of storytelling through music.
The album was produced by Camel themselves, along with Tony Clark and Haydn Bendall, experienced producers known for their work with artists such as Renaissance and Strawbs. The recording took place at Abbey Road Studios, a legendary studio known for its state-of-the-art equipment and rich musical history.
"Nude" may not have been Camel's most commercially successful album, but it remains a testament to their artistic integrity and willingness to push boundaries. It's a snapshot of a band at a crossroads, embracing change while remaining true to their musical vision. In a time of shifting trends, "Nude" stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, musical exploration, and the timeless appeal of progressive rock.
Music Genre: Prog Rock Music |
Collector's info: Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design |
Album Production: Produced by Camel, Tony Clark, Haydn Bendall for Gamma Records |
Record Label & Catalognr: Red Decca 6.24553 (624553) |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone |
Year & Country: 1981 Made in Germany |
Band Members and Musicians on: Camel Nude |
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Complete Track Listing of: Camel Nude |
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Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Camel Nude |
| Photo of Front Cover |
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The album cover for Camel's "Nude" is a surreal and minimalist design. Dominating the background is an illustration of a snow-capped mountain, likely inspired by Japan's Mount Fuji, set against a soft gradient sky shifting from blue to pink at the horizon, giving a tranquil and dreamy ambiance. In the foreground stands a figure in a gray suit, without a head or body; only the outer shell of the suit remains, as if it’s a hollow facade. The inner space where the body would be is split open, revealing a narrow void. This mysterious, faceless figure stands on a small island surrounded by green water and white, foamy waves, symbolizing isolation. The album title 'Nude' appears vertically in a pink sidebar on the left, while the band's name, 'Camel,' is displayed in a yellow sidebar on the right. The surreal nature of the art, combined with the empty suit and solitary setting, evokes themes of anonymity, solitude, and detachment—potentially reflecting the album's concept about a soldier abandoned and isolated from society. The artwork uses simplicity and symbolism to convey a mood of introspection and melancholy. |
| Artwork on the album's inner cover page |
This is the record label for Camel's Nude, released on the Decca label. The label has a vibrant solid red background with black text, featuring the classic Decca logo in bold white lettering at the top. Below the logo, the album title 'NUDE' and band name 'CAMEL' are displayed prominently.
On the left side, the GEMA copyright box appears, along with catalog number '6.24 553-01-1,' while on the right side, 'LC 0171' indicates the label code and 'Side 1 STEREO' is marked to denote this side of the record. Around the outer edge, German text reads 'ALLE URHEBER- UND LEISTUNGSSCHUTZRECHTE VORBEHALTEN' and 'VERMIETUNG, AUFFÜHRUNG SENDUNG,' meaning all rights reserved regarding copyright and performance.
The label credits Camel, Tony Clark, and Haydn Bendall as producers, noting it as a 1981 Gama Records Ltd. production. The clean, minimalist design aligns with the era’s aesthetic, offering essential details while highlighting Decca's branding and the album’s German manufacturing origin. |
In the world of progressive rock, Camel stands as a band that consistently pushed boundaries and challenged expectations. Their 1978 live album, "A Live Record," and their 1981 studio album, "Nude," showcase their musical evolution and their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity.
"A Live Record," released as a double LP, captured the essence of Camel's captivating live performances. Culled from various shows between 1974 and 1977, the album features fan favorites like "Lady Fantasy" and "The Snow Goose," as well as extended improvisations that showcase the band's instrumental prowess. It's a raw and energetic record that perfectly encapsulates the magic of Camel's live shows.
By 1981, the musical landscape had shifted. Progressive rock's dominance was waning, giving way to new wave and synth-pop. Despite these changes, Camel continued to forge their own path, releasing the concept album "Nude." Inspired by the true story of Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier who remained hidden on a remote island for decades after World War II, the album was a departure from their earlier work.
"Nude" showcased a more mature and introspective side of Camel. The music was less about technical virtuosity and more about emotional depth and storytelling. Songs like "Dusted Out" and "Sasquatch" are filled with haunting melodies and evocative lyrics that paint a vivid picture of Onoda's isolation and resilience.
The album was a critical success, praised for its ambitious concept, sophisticated arrangements, and emotional depth. It proved that Camel was more than just a prog rock band; they were master storytellers who could use music to explore complex themes and evoke deep emotions.
The transition from "A Live Record" to "Nude" marks a significant turning point in Camel's career. It showcases their growth as musicians and their willingness to experiment with new sounds and ideas. While "A Live Record" captures the raw energy of their live shows, "Nude" reveals a more mature and introspective side of the band. Both albums stand as testaments to Camel's enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands in the history of progressive rock.
Camel's "A Live Record" is a progressive rock masterpiece presented as a 2LP 12" vinyl album. The tracks on this live recording showcase the band's musical prowess and creativity. From the captivating opener "Never Let Go" to the epic "Lady Fantasy", the album takes listeners on a sonic journey.
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"Nude" tells the compelling true story of Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese soldier stranded on a remote island for decades after World War II, unaware that the conflict had ended. The album's title is a subtle reference to Onoda's surname, hinting at the vulnerability and isolation of his experience.
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