Retro Reviews: Brand X: Unorthodox Behavior

   I decided to launch a new series to imagine myself as a critic at the end of the 60s and start of the 70s, and to rectify certain reviews from Rolling Stone magazine and Creem. This not meant to be contrarian, but to offer a more balanced perspective. This is a lesser-known album. This is part two of three. This is a three-part living tribute to Mr. Collins, in light of his growing health issues, and possible RNRHOF attention. 

Brand X – Unorthodox Behavior (1976)

****

Producers: Brand X, Dennis Mackay

Musicians: Phil Collins, Robin Lumley, John Goodsall, Percy Jones, with Jack Lancaster

Music: Nuclear Burn, Euthanasia Waltz, Born Ugly, Smacks of Euphoric Hysteria, Unorthodox Behavior, Running On Three, Touch Wood

Reviewed By Mathew Anthony Allair

    This is an impressive jazz fusion debut, co-founded by Genesis drummer Phil Collins, as far as the rest of the group -  the Keyboard player, Robin Lumley had already worked with David Bowie, guitarist John Goodsall had already worked with Atomic Rooster before he joined this band. Percy Jones had already briefly worked with Soft Machine before he joined this project. What has resulted is a strong sum of its parts. Much of this material is similar to Mahavishnu Orchestra’s work, but they offer their own fresh stamp to the genre. All of the players are equal to the others, something that you need to work in the fusion field, the quality offsets any doubts one might have.

    Phil’s work here is exceptional, but that is no surprise for Genesis fans. Collins heads off the effort with his drumming on “Nuclear Burn’, but John Goodsall sets up the standard with playing that has a hint of Steve Hacket while also retaining something original, Jones and Lumley hold up their end as well. Things settle back a little with “Euthanasia Waltz”, the track manages to build to a slow burn where Jones is allowed a showcase. “Born Ugly” is a lively funk excursion that showcases Lumley and the piece takes several interesting turns. The second half has a free form open tone before the fiery build back that even manages to hint at early 70s Miles Davis. The more mid tempo “Smacks of Euphoric Hysteria” has a slight blues shuffle, and some outside lead guitar from Goodsall. Phil’s playing makes him almost on par with Buddy Rich, which is saying a great deal.

    The second half opens with the title track, a number with a slow, moody groove that eases into itself with little hints of funk, its keyboard lead has a staccato feeling, there’s a playful hint of Marimba that drops in here, this very much feels like interplay is essential to the number, and while Robin isn’t Tony Banks, he can channel a little of that feeling. “Running On Three” quickly morphs into a fast tempo with Lumley and Goodsall stating the melody, in what might be one of the more satisfying moments with Goodsall pulling off his best McLaughlin flavored lead. “Touch Wood” is a slow burn as an album closer, with impressionistic acoustic guitar and a supportive saxophone from Jack Lancaster, Phil role is sit back on this. A fitting, yet odd closer, this leaves you pondering questions. Overall, quite a good release to start off 1976 and leave one hopeful about the year. Recommended.