FOXTROT

In the 35 years since the boys from Charterhouse handed this one in to Charisma, it has had an incredible impact on Symphonic rock. From the mellotron introduction and morse code rhythm of "Watcher of the Skies," to the cut and paste compositional style, jerky time signatures, and soundtrack worthy climax of "Supper's Ready," this album was a rosetta stone to many a prog group. And as long as there are bands who are trying to make their keyboards sound like strings and their guitars sound like keyboards this album will be influential. But just like the early Buzzcocks singles that prompted an army of DIY punk bands, there is just enough hesitance and compositional naivity to spur on another generation who think they could do a little better. But how many of them will craft a climax with the majestic subtlety and apocalyptic power of the last 7 minutes of "Supper's Ready?" I'm still looking.