English vocals
International relevance: ***
An album known as much for its rarity
value as its musical qualities. Released in 1970, it's an early
example of guitarist Jan Schaffer performing with flute player Björn J:son Lindh on record, standing as Schaffer's first proper album.
The date suggests a transitional work
between pop, psych and prog, and that observation is close to the truth.
Fans of the earliest, endearingt progg years will be delighted. The songs are well crafted and melodic, sometimes with jazzy touches. Most of them stand up
well, including the and the softly moving instrumental ”General Mojo's Well Laid
Plan”. The musicians' interplay builds on harmony and
responsiveness and not ego trips. Which is not to say they never rock
out; ”Juice of Joy” and to greater effect ”Natural Thinking Boy” let it loose
enough.
Perhaps not a 100% impeccable album but
nevertheless a very good one, with the enjoyment further aided by a
warm sounding production. Well worth getting, especially if you can
lay your hands on the Record Store Day reissue.
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