VALENTYNE SUITE

Surprising to see this one classified as Jazz Rock / Fusion. It rather edges on the early prog / heavy blues side. The sound, rich and heavy, comes close to the most sophisticated Keef Hartley Band albums (with some line-up intertwinning). Compositions are ambitious, which is probably the strongest justification for seeing the album as an early prog classic. Valentyne suite must have been quite innovative at the time (it was admittedly a time full of innovations), and it remains today a very singular piece in the rock music. The Kettle and Machine demands a sacrifice are fabulous songs, while the title track fulfill all expectations. Unfortunately, the two remaining songs are less imaginative, which might explain why the album hasn't reach a real cult status. Quite worth your money, though !