Pink Floyd and The Incredible String Band.
The Incredible String Band.
There are 6 tracks on each side of this splendid LP. All 4 members are credited as such, though Rose has left and been replaced by one Malcolm. More of him next time; and there are some guest musicians too.
Track 1 on Side 1 Is “Talking Of The End”. This is a Williamson composition and lasts 5.28 minutes. It is a classic Robin song, staccato, eerie, and whimsical. He plays oud, violin, guitar, whistle and cymbals, and sings lead vocal. Mike plays organ and sitar and provides backing vocals. Likky (as Liquorice is called here) plays harmonium, organ and small hand drums, and supplies backing vocals. Malcolm plays harpsichord and hand drums and also does some backing vocals. One Stan Lee plays pedal steel guitar. This track is a wonderful introduction to this excellent album.
Track 2 is another Williamson composition called “Dear Old Battlefield” (2.59 minutes). This is heavier, rockier thing than Track 1, but is another truly brilliant song. Perhaps I should add now that the lyrics of all the tracks are printed in the inside of the gatefold sleeve, which makes the songs all the more enjoyable. Robin plays rhythm guitar and sings. Mike plays lead guitar and Likky does organ and vocals. Malcom plays bass, and Gerry Conway (late of Fotheringay – see way above!) plays the drums.
Track 3 is “Cosmic Boy”, for which the credits are unusual. The author of the “lyrics” is McKechnie (Likky), and Mike is credited with the “music”. It lasts 4.21 minutes. Likky sings solo and Mike plays piano, the only accompaniment. This is a slow, beautiful plaintive song, all the better for its sparse arrangement.
Track 4 is a Heron composition called “Worlds They Rise And Fall” and is a typical Mike thing, coming in at 3.23 minutes. The verses are strong and hearty, the refrains soft and gentle. Yet another musical gem to adorn this superb album.
Track 5 is a wonderful Williamson composition called “Painted Chariot”. This is a dramatic song, with strong singing and perfect musicianship. It lasts 4.12 minutes. Robin plays mandolin and kazoo and sings. Mike plays organ and Likky bass and kazoo. Malcolm plays kazoo, swanee whistle, and sings.
This is the back cover of the LP.
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