GOLDEN EARRING [AKA: WALL OF DOLLS]

1970 marked the release of this Wall Of Dolls album. It is important to mention that even though GE were not really remotely progressive at this juncture their hints at future progressive sounds were laid down on some of these tracks. This Is The Time Of The Year is a good example of some more complicated riffs. Big Tree Blue Sea with it's flute intro and psychedlic like lyrics is reminiscent of early Gravy Train or even Jethro Tull. Great song and nice tight arrangements. As Long As The Wind Blows is another epic song with great vocals and bass.They seemed to be very much in control of their sound way back then and this album is a great example for anyone wanting to find out more from this famous Dutch band. GE were one of the first bands to shift musical direction even as early as 1975 so make sure you check this one and all their material up to 1976 out. For comparisons with their other works this rates right up there near the top of the ladder. Four stars.