STRAWBS BY CHOICE

Yes, there have been many Strawbs compilations and collections issued over the years. The sad fact is that this brief, but exceptional introduction to the band's heyday from 1968 through 1974 has not been reissued on compact disc and so is only available as a used vinyl record. What distinguished this collection is the chronological and hence sonic transformation of the band from a predominantly acoustic very traditional sounding ensemble (okay, so the word "folk" comes to mind), to a heavier rock influenced band. Moreover, their most familiar and listenable tunes are also featured (missing only perhaps the chart hit "Part of the Union"). Although I own a number of Strawbs CDs from their halcyon years, I still play this more often than any of the rest. Last but not least it should be noted that the rare single B-side (and album track from the now hard-to-find Dragonfly) "Another Day" was included on this compilation but apparently was not deemed appropriate for any subsequent anthology. It is a delightful little ditty. Clearly this album is worth seeking out if it can be found in excellent condition.