Bruford's later outings would be released under either his full name or variations of Bill Bruford's Earthworks/Earthworks.
Fainting In Coils
Bruford Lyrics
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Alice did not feel encouraged to ask any more questions about it, so she turned to the Mock Turtle, and said "What else had you to learn?"
"Well, there was Mystery," the Mock Turtle replied, counting off the subjects on his flappers, "Mystery, ancient and modern, with Seaography; then Drawling – the Drawling-master was an old conger-eel, that used to come once a week: he taught us Drawling, Stretching, and Fainting in Coils."
The spoken introduction to Bruford's song "Fainting In Coils" is taken from Lewis Carroll's famous novel Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. In the exchange, Alice asks the Mock Turtle what else he had to learn, and he mentions a class called "Fainting in Coils" taught by an old conger-eel who also taught Drawling and Stretching. This introduction sets the stage for the song, which is about the concept of learning, education, and self-improvement.
The song itself is an instrumental track that combines elements of jazz, rock, and fusion. It features complex time signatures and intricate drum patterns, as well as improvisational solos from the various band members. The music itself seems to mimic the idea of learning and growth, with different instruments taking turns leading the melody and exploring new musical ideas. The song is fast-paced and energetic, reflecting the idea of constantly pushing oneself to improve and learn new things.
Overall, "Fainting in Coils" is a complex and dynamic instrumental track that reflects the themes of growth and self-improvement explored in the spoken introduction. Through its intricate musical structures and improvisational solos, the song emphasizes the importance of constantly learning and growing to achieve one's full potential.
Line by Line Meaning
Mystery, ancient and modern
Exploring and understanding the unknown, whether it is from long ago or happening right now.
With Seaography
Also studying the vast and complex world of oceans, including geography, biology, and more.
Then Drawling - the Drawling-master was an old conger-eel, that used to come once a week
Learning creative expression and artistry, often from unique and unexpected teachers.
He taught us Drawling, Stretching, and Fainting in Coils
Specifically, the skills of precise lines and curves, flexibility and physical control, and perhaps even gracefully giving up control or 'fainting' in the face of great challenges.
Writer(s): William Scott Bruford Copyright: E.G. Music Ltd.
Contributed by Lucas V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@rembeadgc
This song is a masterpiece, along with the rest of the album. Holdsworth's solo on this is one of the coolest things I've ever heard. Nobody plays anything like it, ever! Definitely a desert island pick.
@keyboarddancers7751
This album is an utterly masterful and arguably peerless example of the (mainly English) jazz rock fusion genre.
@leonguisburg413
"One Of A Kind" was the perfect name for this album!!!
@glendenig9962
The musicality of this tune is fantastic through and through!... BUT WOW!... I can't get over the TREMENDOUS bass work, all through the tune. MAN ALIVE!!!! THANKS JEFF BERLIN!!!
@baspravisrbin
feel that way since 1979...
@dragonfly8341
What a time it was to be alive when such prolific music flourished in abundance... And so forward-thinking that it continues to leave a mark & inspire future generations for true musical integrity <3 Allan Holdsworth RIP
@karilamervo5343
Every time Dave Stewart plays his Polymoog and Holdsworth does melody, my spine just melts.
@snoolee7950
Dave Stewart doesn't play a Polymoog. He plays a Prophet 5.
@karilamervo5343
@@snoolee7950 back then...but thanks for correcting.
@BobRoss-gr9px
@@karilamervo5343 @Snoo Lee Dave Stewart played a Polymoog on the previous Bruford album "Feels Good To Me" but based on the rig he used on the Rock Goes To College show -- and on the sound -- I think it's a safe bet that he got the Prophet 5 in time to record "One Of A Kind" with it.