CRESSIDA

Interesting obscure little band from England that recorded two little known Lps in the early 70´s. Their sound surprised me a lot because it is labeled here as symphonic prog, while what I hear is the typical psychedelic rock of the late 60´s. There are no epics, only short songs that I can call proto prog at the most. Not bad at all, by the way. Very nice keys (mostly the Hammond organ sound you´d expect from a 60´s band, but there are also some nice harpsichord, piano and even a timid mellotron here and there). the group also had a very capable singer (Angus Cullen) and a fine guitarrist (John Heyworth, who also sings on one track). But it is clear that keybaordsman Peter Jennings who gives the band its best prog credentials.

I really don´t see why they became a kind of cult band among progheads, at least judging their work by their debut CD (I haven´t heard their second yet). Their style differs very little from more well known bands of the day, like The Moody Blues. Heyworth may have a little more jazzier side that brings the Canterbury sound a bit in mind. But I also should point out that the songwriting here is quite strong and promising for a first album. Nothing really new or too much progressive, but good anyway. The production is good and there are no fillers (but also I can´t really point out a highlight either).

I can only recommend Cressida for the ones who love the late 60´s sound (specially the West Coast influenced bands like The Doors). Those will certainly enjoy this little known album, that certainly have its moments. Rating: something between 2,5 and 3 stars.