Episode 137 – Brand X, 1976-1980: Inhuman Fusion Conclusions
Led by the estimable Percy Jones on bass and supported by a cast of elite co-conspirators, England's Brand X released a covey of essential fusion albums in the '70s and early '80s. Blending rock and jazz with uncommon aggression and dexterity, Brand X cuts across genres and decapitates rivals. Join us on this deep dive into one of fusion's oft-overlooked champions. Note I: Jeff’s Voivod book, Always Moving: The Strange Multiverse of Voivod, is finally available. Taking orders now for this 540-page, 3-pound behemoth…ONLY available HERE: radicalresearch.org/voivod Note II: The Radical Research Patreon page is now set up and ready for your patronage. We are offering tiered subscription levels for those who want a set-it-and-forget-it donation option. As ever, if you choose to support us, we are humbled and grateful! patreon.com/RadicalResearchPodcast Music cited in order of appearance: “Nuclear Burn” ( Unorthodox Behaviour , 1976) “Smacks of Euphoric Hysteria” ( Unorthodox Behaviour , 1976) “Disco Suicide” ( Moroccan Roll , 1977) “Macrocosm” ( Moroccan Roll , 1977) “Access to Data” ( Masques , 1978) “The Ghost of Mayfield Lodge” ( Masques , 1978) “Don’t Make Waves” ( Product , 1979) “Dance of the Illegal Aliens” ( Product , 1979) “Act of Will” ( Do They Hurt? , 1980) “Fragile” ( Do They Hurt? , 1980) “Triumphant Limp” ( Do They Hurt? , 1980) Radical Research is a conversation about the inner- and outer-reaches of rock and metal music. This podcast is conceived and conducted by Jeff Wagner and Hunter Ginn. Though we consume music in a variety of ways, we give particular privilege to the immersive, full-album listening experience. Likewise, we believe that tangible music formats help provide the richest, most rewarding immersions and that music, artwork, and song titles cooperate to produce a singular effect on the listener. Great music is worth more than we ever pay for it.