GRAND HOTEL

Procol Harum had its strongest and most influential contributions to the progressive rock genre in the late sixties. A track like 'In Held Was I' formed a blueprint for the epic songwriting bands like Genesis would expand on. With 'Grand Hotel' (1973) Procol Harum would up-date its sound and record a fine (or refined) symphonic rock album with some mild progressive touches. Gary Brooker would write some of his most elegant chord progressions and melodies for song like 'Grand Hotel', 'TV Ceasar' and 'Fires'. Furthermore, the whole album is musically drenched in the theme of a 'Hotel Grande' luxurious experience, which was well amplified by the record's production. The simpler songs still have a lyrical content that keeps the listeners attention, like for instance with the soft erotic implications of 'Souvenir From London'. Gary Brooker's performances are especially lively on this record, adding to the winning vibe that is notable all around.

The overall mastering of this album deserves an up-date, for the low-end gets a bit muddy on some devices. I would than happily buy the vinyl again, for it belongs in the league of progressive (art)rock related records like Alan Parsons Project 'I Robot', Manfred Mann's 'Solar Fire' and David Bowie's 'Ziggy Stardust'.