LEVITATION

If you like more traditional symphonic progressive music - and you want to buy just one Hawkwind record - I think I would recommend this one.

On this record the compositions are way more intricate and advanced then on all other Hawkwind records. A great variety of themes, inspired solo's and a broad sound pallet for both guitars and synths. The record reminded me a bit of the better work of Solaris. Flexible, adventurous and free - almost as if jamming, but more intelligent.

Of course a Hawkwind record will never be perfect. Take for instance the poor vocals of David Brock on most songs, the flawed disco bass on Motorway City and the loss of direction on some of the later songs on the album. Still, I doesn't matters much. This band sounds like it is on fire! Seldom will you hear a more enthusiastic symphonic progressive rock album. Is it because of the drums of ex-Cream Ginger Baker? Perhaps the rivalry between the guitars of Huw Lloyd-Langton and David Brock? I don't know but it feels right. Perhaps forming a new Hawkwind for a new age, without Robert Calvert, gave a lot to think about. I do know a band will never be much better then its drummer and Baker's contribution might be bigger then just listening to the album can reveal.

After this record the band would enter it's troublesome eighties with only Chronicle of the Black Sword as a slight return to form. It would take until Electric Tepee before the band would ever set eyes on making a fine quality record like this one.

Conclusion. Levitation is one of Hawkwinds best and most uplifting & refined records. Furthermore, it is well suited for the symphonic prog audiences that reside here. Thus, a four star rating can't be denied. Perhaps I will make if five one day.

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