MY FAMILY WAS GAY

I'm writing this single review mainly to remind us of the existence of this legendary Danish rock group in the PA database, as I did with another single review in February. Sadly there still are no reviews by those -- surely better acquainted than me -- who pushed for the contradictory artist addition here. I'm challenging you!

'My Family Was Gay' is the last song on the band's third album Travelin' (1969), and despite the 8-minute length it was also released as a single in which the song was divided in two halves. According to All Music Guide the "shockingly titled" song has "rather straightforward hints of incest". I won't deal with the lyrics. Musically this is a gorgeous soul oriented song. Although it doesn't necessarily call for a distinctive progressive rock stamp on it (it's 1969 when the genre was just developing, anyway), the song length makes it possible to have some proggy variety in the performance. This concerns mostly the latter half featuring a great electric guitar solo and momentary changes in the tempo and intensity before returning into the song's main substance.

Most of all, the band sounds wonderful. The unique vocals of Annisette, the piano & organ work reminiscent of THE BAND at their best, the fine drumming of Alex Riel, the Baroque pop flavour with the harpsichord, and the mentioned guitar solo. The early years of PROCOL HARUM may also come to mind, but frankly they had very few songs to challenge the passion and power of this one. I think I just fell in love with this song which surely must be the highlight of the album that's generally not counted among the strongest -- or the most progressive -- of this band.

So, if you know well some of their albums, please share your insights.