WATERS OF CHANGE

This is one of the better "proto-prog" efforts IMO. Unlike the tentative sounding works by some of the other bands like Fantasy and Cressida, Waters of Change really makes a stylistic statement, seemingly unaware that it operates in a gray area between psych and prog, and the result is quite satisfying if a bit uneven.

Beggars Opera mixes plenty of organs and some mellotrons with oratorial and dignified vocals and some good guitar work. When you consider that the original works of Procol Harum, BJH and Moody Blues Mach II all came several years before, this is far from groundbreaking work, but is confident and well played.

Particular favourites are "Festival", with its livelier interludes recalling English folk but also its jam session feel, the monumentally reverential "Silver Peacock", and the pensive instrumental "Nimbus".

Waters of Change might take a few listens to seep in, but by and large it is worth the effort.