FROM THE WITCHWOOD

After having to review the bitterly disapointing turkey called The Collection, I promised myself and a guy on PM to come back again with a more representative The Strawbs album. I am now keeping this promise.

From the opening of Glimpse Of Heaven, I am transfixed by this mix of church music, celtic folk music and pastorial prog rock. The inclusion of some Indian music and BEATLES like melodies just enhance the mix on this album. The second track Witchwood is a prime example where everything comes together in an almost holy unity. This is not a song I will forget in a hurry. The third song Thirty Days is almost a BEATLES rip off with John Lennon on vocals. Actually, he's not but the vocals is very, very Mr. Lennon. A thorough study of the CD reveals that Dave Cousins is the vocalist though. The Indian sitar and the song itself is also more than a nod to Mr. Harrison from THE BEATLES. A very good song though.

The rest of the album follows the same path. Minimalistic pastorial songs with plenty of references to THE BEATLES and the 1960s prog rock. A small nod towards NEIL YOUNG is also duly noted. And the quality is superb. Really superb. The songs enchanting and excellent. This is music down my alley. I am converted. I am sold. I am bewitched. This is an album I will put on my top 20 list.

4.5 stars.