Scooter Chronicles

Brand X - “Unorthodox Behaviour”

1. Nuclear Burn
2. Euthanasia Waltz
3. Born Ugly
4. Smacks of Euphoric Hysteria
5. Unorthodox Behaviour
6. Running On Three
7. Touch Wood

I had heard for a long time that Phil Collins had been in another band that played jazz fusion, called Brand X, for years. Many, many times I had looked at their LP’s and CD’s, but never took the dive. Part of me was worried that I would hate them. Finally, earlier this year, I broke down and bought this album. Though mostly it was due to hearing some of bassist Percy Jones’ more recent work with another band.

(From left): Robin Lumley (keyboards), Phil Collins (drums), John Goodsall (guitars), and Percy Jones (bass).

Brand X came about from two fronts (according to Phil Collins’ web site). Collins and Jones had worked together as studio musicians for a Brian Eno album. Just after, adding Goodsall, Lumley, and Jack Lancaster (woodwinds), they recorded an album, that may or may not have been released, under some incredibly obscure title and band name. Eventually in 1975, minus Lancaster, Brand X formally gigged and recorded their first album, “Unorthodox Behaviour”. They would go on to record a handful more of albums through the early 80’s (though Collins would only play on the album directly after this one). Goodsall has revived the band recently with three new members.

Two things struck me after listening to this album the first few times. This album, and possibly the band, seem rather underrated. Unfortunately they got a bit lost in the fusion scene of the mid 70’s because their music sounded more progressive rock like then actual fusion. And at that time progressive rock was on it’s way out. And to be added to those jazz/fusion fans, I think the lack of a “leader” like Zawinul and Shorter for Weather Report, John MacLaughlin for Mahavishnu Orchestra, and Chick Corea for Return to Forever, also hurt them in the marketing aspects. Even with Phil Collins, they just didn’t garner the attention that they probably should have deserved.

The second thing that hit me was “Why don’t more people know about Percy Jones?” Actually, I think I just explained it above. I have been a fan of bass players for years, being my favorite musicians. And yet, I only just discovered Jones’ talents recently. It’s a shame. He is very, very good. This album is the proof. And he uses a fretless exclusively.

It’s not only the bass that makes this album so good. All four musicians are underrated virtuosos. Yes, even Collins. Most everyone knows the pop days of Genesis, or Collins solo material. But a lot of those don’t realize that he is one of the most respected drummers because he is in fact a great drummer. This album is proof of that. His drumming fits in fluidly with the other members. He does show off his chops, but like a great arranger, he knows when to just keep the beat.

As for some of the songs, “Nuclear Burn” is a great opener. It is also appropriately titled. No holding back to begin with. Then “Euthanasia Waltz” goes for some acoustic (or clean channeled) guitar, along with a very cool bass solo. “Born Ugly” though is the real gem of the album. Catchy melody, great bass line, overall great sound. It seemed to be crafted to be just that, not showcase the musicians talents, however did in the end. “Running of Three” is also another stand-out track. The shortest song on the album, but not lacking in brilliance one bit. Every song on the album ranges from good to excellent.

It’s a great album for both the prog rock fan, and jazz/fusion fan.