Richard Thompson - Henry The Human Fly

Richard Thompson - Henry The Human Fly
Produced by Richard Thompson and John Wood
Recorded at Sound Techniques Studio, London
Warner Brothers/Island/Reprise/Hannibal/Fledg'ling, 1972

Henry The Human Fly is the very obscure debut album by British folk rock guitarist Richard Thompson. Released in 1972, it is reported that this record was either the worst selling album in Warner Brothers history or the quickest record to be deleted from their catologue. Both claims I can't confirm but it is certain that the LP was very poorly received both critically and commercial at the time and faded into history. Sadly though, Henry The Human Fly is a great record and it successfully combines British folk music with rock n' roll, with a very unique and original twist. Furthermore, It features guest appearances from ex-Fairport members Sandy Denny and Ashley Hutchings as well as Thompson's future with Linda Pettifer.

After leaving Fairport Convention in 1971, Thompson worked as a session guitarist and began to write his own songs, formulating a style far different from other folk rock music at the time. The idea for to record a Richard Thompson solo record was reportedly not a planned career move, but one that happened organically over time. The result were a strangely captivating hybrid of folk and rock, however, it is easy to see why the record never caught on with critics and the record buying public. The folk is not 'folky' enough, and probably too electric and eclectic for his Fairport fan base and the rock isn't 'rocking' or 'cool' enough to gain a more broader mainstream appeal. Henry The Human Fly sits out on its' own musically and lyrically and far more idiosyncratic than his work in Fairport Convention. Despite its obvious peculiarity, if you approach the album upon its own merits, it will reveal itself as an exceptional record - a true musical outlier!

The record opens with the rough 'Roll Over Vaughan Williams', led by a trademark Thompson lead guitar riff which swirls and drones ominously. A tough tale about street life, the song is crunchy and raw, as though a British pub band was trying to tackle a traditional folk tune. The song is quite unique, and the accordion and guitar interplay is jarring and borderline un-listenable, however the combo makes for a scintillating opening and one of my favourite Richard Thompson songs. The next two tracks 'Nobody's Wedding' and 'Poor Ditching Boy' are more traditional folk in terms of arrangements and have a timeless feel to them. However, both have original musical arrangements and bizarre lyrics, further moving Thompson away from his Fairport Convention days. Both songs focus on Thompson's acoustic playing rather than his electric and the sound is filled out by violin, accordion and even a whistle, most notably on on the gorgeous tune 'Shaky Nancy'. Thompson further shakes things up on the pop-folk of 'The Angels Took My Racecourse Away' in which he blends chugging electric guitars and accordion to the story of a beloved racehorse being poisoned! On side B, notable songs like 'The New St. George' and 'Painted Ladies' are more traditional folk songs with that unique Thompson twist. All the songs demonstrate a developing sound and style which would be fully realized on his next LP; the timeless I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight.

Henry the Human Fly is quite unlike any other record I have heard. Its odd, unique, familiar, and different all at once, I can't quite compare this mysterious release to any other records. Thompson's lyrics and subject matter is what makes this a very strange record, full of dark, humorous, and sad stories which are cleverly written and expertly performed. Furthermore, Thompson's guitar playing is incredible, so intricate yet so simple and easily recognizable, surely he must be one of the most accomplished players in his field. Henry The Human Fly has largely been dismissed (along with Thompson himself I believe) and has faded into obscurity. I urge fans of Richard Thompson' solo work to engage with this album as this is where it all began in all its strange and mysterious glory.

Key tracks:

Roll Over Vaughan Williams
The New St. George
Painted Ladies
The Angels Took My Racehorse Away
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