NATIONAL HEALTH

This review is not intended to be a lengthy ramble, rather a straight-to-the-point, matter-of-fact statement ; National Health put out 3 fantastic albums during their life-time, all worth checking out. The music is constructed in a very complex fashion, but also includes many humourous quirks, which, whilst the pieces here may generally be 'difficult' for the average listener to penetrate, adds a degree of light-heartedness which shows that the musicians were having a great time playing/recording this stuff. Dave Stewart is 'No.1' when it comes to Prog Keyboardists (his contorted Fuzz-Organ solos stupendously marvellous, and literally a 'buzz' !), Alan Gowen's (always) tasteful Mini-Moog solos, Pip Pyle's effervescent Drumming, Phil Miller's totally unique and distinctive style of guitaring, Neil Murray's incredible Fretless Bass playing (yes, an amazingly versatile Bass-player of incredible talent, later playing for various 'Metal' bands - Whitesnake and Black Sabbath etc.) and the wistful vocals of the lovely Amanda Parsons (whom Neil Murray shared a flat with for several years at the time...). Various guests appear ; Jimmy Hastings - famous Canterburian Flute/Sax player providing a priceless contribution to the compositions, and percussionist John Mitchell to add some interesting dynamics to the entire affair. This is one amazing album that sounds stunningly 'fresh', even when compared to modern day's standards. 5 stars and a 'must have' album.