Capability Brown – From Scratch

Capability Brown – From Scratch

Released in 1972, From Scratch is the only studio album by British progressive rock band Capability Brown. Although the group enjoyed only a brief recording career, the album has become a highly regarded cult classic, admired for its sophisticated blend of progressive rock, jazz influences, intricate vocal harmonies, and exceptional musicianship.

Named after the famous 18th-century English landscape architect, Capability Brown featured an accomplished line-up of musicians whose backgrounds in jazz and rock helped shape the band's distinctive sound. Rather than relying solely on lengthy instrumental workouts, From Scratch balances memorable songwriting with ambitious arrangements, making it one of the hidden gems of the early 1970s progressive rock scene.

The album opens with the melodic Beautiful Scarlet, setting the tone with rich harmonies and flowing instrumentation. Do You Believe and The Band continue the album's sophisticated mix of progressive rock and jazz, while Garden offers a more reflective mood. Side A closes with Liar, showcasing the group's dynamic musicianship and intricate arrangements.

Side B begins with the energetic No Range, followed by the melodic I Will Be There and the rhythmically engaging Redman. Day In Day Out continues the album's polished songwriting before the record concludes with the ambitious multi-part suite Sole Survivor, comprising Escape, Sole Survivor, Cosmic Ride, and Time Machine. This expansive finale highlights the band's progressive vision, combining shifting tempos, intricate instrumental passages, and memorable melodies into a fitting conclusion.

Though often overlooked alongside better-known progressive rock releases of the era, From Scratch has earned a loyal following among collectors and enthusiasts. Its blend of intelligent songwriting, outstanding musicianship, and jazz-infused progressive rock makes it an essential addition for fans of Gentle Giant, Caravan, Colosseum, Greenslade, and the wider British progressive movement.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Beautiful Scarlet
2. Do You Believe
3. The Band
4. Garden
5. Liar

Side B

1. No Range
2. I Will Be There
3. Redman
4. Day In Day Out
5. Sole Survivor
   • Escape
   • Sole Survivor
   • Cosmic Ride
   • Time Machine