GOLDEN EARRING [AKA: WALL OF DOLLS]

This is an underrated album generally, but good to see that it has good reviews and ratings on the prog-archives. This shows Dutch rockers Golden Earring had matured well from their 60's pop-rock sound. The songs are really engaging, best of all is "Big Tree, Blue Sea" which is a six minute stomper that also plays with the Jethro Tull sound. The flute playing is fabulous adding an eerie atmosphere. The guitar work by George kooymans is worth listening out for. Also speaking of kooymans, he sings great vocals on three of the tunes: the best one being "This Is The Time of the Year". The guitar riffs were pretty sharp for 1970!! It makes me wonder how many countless bands have followed them. I've certainly heard a few similar ones by later bands.There are some nice folky pieces on the album: Yellow And Blue" and "See See". Another highlight is "Penguins to the sky" for its guitar jam. This is a classic and was the best Earring release to date.