Description
Fred Frith – Cheap At Half The Price – Vinyl Record
Ralph Records 8356
Cheap at Half the Price is the third solo album by English guitarist and composer Fred Frith, released in 1983. Known for his avant-garde and experimental approach to music, Frith takes a distinctive turn with this album, venturing into a more accessible, song-oriented format while retaining his signature eclecticism.
Track Listing:
“Some Clouds Don’t”
“Cap the Knife”
“Evolution”
“Too Much Too Little”
“The Welcome”
“Same Old Me”
“Some Clouds Do”
“Instant Party”
“Walking Song”
“Flying in the Face of Facts”
“Heart Bares”
“Absent Friends”
“The Great Healer”
Cheap at Half the Price marks a departure from Frith’s earlier instrumental and improvisational works, embracing a song-based structure with Frith himself providing vocals. The album blends elements of art rock, experimental rock, and alternative pop, characterized by unconventional song structures, quirky melodies, and a playful yet avant-garde sensibility. Lyrically, the songs explore themes ranging from personal introspection to societal commentary, all delivered with Frith’s distinctive wit and irony.
Cheap at Half the Price stands as a unique entry in Fred Frith’s extensive catalog, showcasing his ability to traverse different musical landscapes. While it may not be as widely recognized as some of his other works, the album offers insight into Frith’s versatility as a musician and his willingness to explore and redefine musical boundaries.
Cheap at Half the Price remains a testament to Fred Frith’s innovative spirit and his contribution to the experimental and art rock genres.
