"Scheherazade and Other Stories" is the sixth studio album by the English progressive rock band Renaissance, released in 1975. Some critics consider it their best album, while others prefer earlier works. This album is notable for not using quotes from existing classical pieces and lacking songwriting credits from the original members. Contrary to popular belief, "Song of Scheherazade" is not based on Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade but includes a brief motif that alludes to it.
The suite "Song of Scheherazade" was originally conceived by guitarist Michael Dunford as a score for a theatrical musical. He and bassist Jon Camp worked on it during songwriting sessions at Dunford's home. Eventually, the band decided to use an abridged version of the musical for the album, with keyboardist John Tout joining the songwriting sessions.
Renaissance initially sought David Hentschel as the producer but settled on David Hitchcock due to his previous work with them. Despite a good working relationship, both sides felt they didn’t creatively connect during recording. Hitchcock was simultaneously producing two albums, which impacted the quality of both.
Although credited as recorded at Abbey Road Studios, Haslam and drummer Terrance Sullivan claimed that "The Vultures Fly High" was recorded at Air Studios before moving to Abbey Road. The London Symphony Orchestra recorded their parts at Abbey Road, while most of the band’s parts were done in Studio 3.
"Trip to the Fair" was inspired by Haslam's first date with Roy Wood, which included a visit to a fair that was closed upon their arrival. The laughter heard in the song was a result of Haslam's repeated mistakes during recording.
"The Vultures Fly High" critiques the negative treatment Renaissance received from critics, while "Ocean Gypsy" has been covered by Blackmore's Night. The title was originally planned to be just Scheherazade, with "and Other Stories" added as a last-minute decision.
The cover art was created by Hipgnosis, initially intended as part of a series that was cut short by the painter's death after completing only one painting.
There is confusion regarding the sections of "Song of Scheherazade," particularly with "Fanfare" and "The Betrayal" sounding like a single section. This was reflected in the packaging and mislabeling on various compilations. Composing credits are complicated, with themes borrowed among the members, leading to some discrepancies in attribution.
