203. Spirit - Twelve Dreams of Doctor Sardonicus

This was a band that we had never heard of, which is particularly surprising given my love of 70s Prog. Whilst Spirit wouldn't automatically fit in that category, Psychedelic Pop being a closer genre Allmusic informs me, the overlap with Progressive Rock is very strong; there are plenty of key changes, a thematic approach to songs, and the use of a Moog. They remind me a bit of Curved Air, if that means anything to anyone. For the record, this is definitely a good thing.

The variety of musical styles on the album is intimidatingly good. Nature's Way is an early discussion of environmental concerns, which I can only assume was influenced by the creation of Friends of the Earth in 1969, as well as the passing of pro-environment legislation by Congress at this time. I think it's a better paean to nature than most of R.E.M.'s Green. The outstanding Mr Skin will get stuck in your head, with its great bass line and jazzy flourishes. It's name was the nickname of Ed Cassidy, the band's drummer, due to his shaven head. Animal Zoo is an upbeat, bouncy number, and When I Touch You paints some striking images of nature, and makes great use of stereo panning guitar licks. Love Has Found a Way has a striking resemblance to XTC; it could comfortably sit on Skylarking. The horn section on Morning Will Come is worthy of Otis Redding, it is that good, and the closing refrain of the album is stunning. Indeed, there are no misses on this album at all, as the variety of music makes it feel like a greatest hits collected over an entire career, rather than in a few months.

I loved this album, and it's one that I know I will revisit over and over again. When it gets to the end of the week, I'm normally ready to move on to the next album, sometimes desperate to (looking at you Donovan), but in this case I could happily have had another week or two listening to Randy California (sidenote; best name ever, especially as he was given it by Jimi Hendrix) and his band perform this majestic canon of songs. 

Chloe's rating: 7 

Chloe's favourite track: 10. Life Has Just Begun

Olly's rating: 9

Olly's favourite track: 6. Mr Skin

This week we have selected 940. Sea Change by Beck, apparently a proper heartbreak album. Perfect for the build up to our wedding...