THE BATTLE OF HASTINGS

After a longer break from the recording studio, Caravan returned in 1995 with The Battle Of Hastings. Keeping in mind that their previous albums from the early 80's and late 70's were less than impressive, it comes as no surprise that what we have here is an improvement. But even so, The Battle Of Hastings is not very impressive on its own merits, and it leaves a lot to be desired.

The Battle Of Hastings presents a subtle, charming and predominantly acoustic Caravan with many Folk-influences with lots of tasteful mandolin and flutes. The melodies are rather soft and laid back, and the album is not particularly progressive. The music is pleasant, but the material is not really memorable and the album simply lacks the lasting appeal of classic Caravan albums like For Girls Who Grow Plump In The Night and Cunning Stunts.

As I said, this album is very acoustic in its nature, almost "naked" compared to other Caravan albums. But it is not quite an unplugged session, however, as there are some nice keyboard solos and electric guitars in addition to acoustic guitars, mandolin, flute, and violin, among other instruments. The flute work in particular is very nice.

The only real embarrassment is the outrageously silly Wendy Wants Another 6" Mole is totally out of place with its silly and annoying "farting" noises! Were they trying to make children's music here? Thankfully, the rest of the songs have a rather serious tone and are not so silly. I have never liked Caravan's silly and whimsical moments.

Caravan wouldn't return to form until their next album, 2003's The Unauthorised Breakfast Item.

Share this CARAVAN review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to SouthSideoftheSky
• Report this review (#257172)
• Buy CARAVAN music online with PA partners
• Show all CARAVAN MP3/Stream
• Go to CARAVAN page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to The Battle of Hastings page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for CARAVAN related discussions