"Masques" finds Brand X further refining their complex instrumental interplay, showcasing a more streamlined, yet no less demanding, approach to jazz-rock fusion. This album marked a transition, featuring a more collaborative songwriting process that balanced individual virtuosity with cohesive group dynamics.
- Recorded in 1978 at the Record Plant in Los Angeles, "Masques" was the first Brand X album not produced by the band themselves, with Steve Lillywhite taking the helm. The album features guest contributions from jazz saxophonist Phil Todd on several tracks, adding another layer to the band's already rich sound. Despite its intricate musicianship, "Masques" achieved moderate commercial success, charting at number 91 on the UK Albums Chart.
- The album's cover art, a photograph by Fin Costello, visually complements the sophisticated and somewhat enigmatic nature of the music within. This was the only Brand X studio album to feature guitarist John Goodsall as the sole guitarist, following the departure of earlier members. Bassist John Giblin's prominent role on this record laid the groundwork for his later high-profile collaborations with artists like Peter Gabriel and Simple Minds.
- "Masques" is notable for its structural complexity, with extended instrumental passages and shifting time signatures characteristic of the progressive and fusion genres. The album received a positive, though sometimes reserved, reception from critics, who noted the band's technical prowess while occasionally yearning for more conventional song structures. It remains a significant entry in the discography of Brand X, highlighting their ability to evolve and experiment within their established sound.
Brand X hails from the UK, renowned for their intricate compositions that blend progressive rock with jazz fusion. At the time of "Masques," the band was navigating a period of evolving lineups and expanding their sonic palette within the UK's fertile 1970s rock scene.
Tracklist
