Camelogue (Camel)
Camel - Heroes
No easy answer - Camel
Otherwise known to Camel fans as: 'The one we love to hate'.
Perhaps an unfair judgement - times had been hard for band-leader Andy Latimer, he had been unable to continue with sparring-partner Pete Bardens, internal tensions whilst touring had forced the departure of bass-maestro Richard Sinclair and drummer Andy Ward was an alcoholic wreck who had attempted suicide. Maybe it was time for a solo album to work things out of the system.
Getting into a studio with an all-star line up which included Dave Mattacks, Simon Phillips, Francis Monkman, Anthony Phillips and David Paton under the careful eyes of producer Haydn Bendall things started to roll.
Annoyingly though, the label bosses at Decca were demanding a hit single and Andy L was restricted to doing mostly short, sharp 'songs' with only a couple of instrumental workouts to recover past glories. High-point is the steaming track 'Sasquatch' which is pure magic and became a live favourite.
Returning to this album with an open mind reveals its charms with great playing by a team of experienced, dedicated musicians.
PS: The album title is a play on words - Andy Latimer was the single remaining band member and he was feeling very pressured to churn out singles.
PPS: "Andy Ward does not appear on this album following a serious injury to his hand."
