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ST. MIKAEL Psychocosmic songs, vinyl, 1993

First LP I've bought in more than a year. Here Jean Michel Jarre collaborates with several other electronic artists like Brian Eno and Martin Gore to rework tracks from his recent Oxymore album.

It's a bit abstract and experimental musically but the production and excellent pressing make it a blast on the turntable.

Jethro Tull - Thick as a brick

Crown Lands - Fearless

Primus - Frizzle Fried, some pretty amazing bass going on there.

Dionne Warwick 'Sings the Bacharach & David Songbook' (2008)



Not my usual Proggy ego-clashing or Fusion speed-spectaculars but pure music and timeless songs from a time when life was innocent and simple.

Growing up as a child in the 60's, these songs were constantly on the radio. Diamonds that wormed their way into your heart.

'Walk On By', 'The Look of Love', 'Make it Easy on Yourself '. Sung by an angel

A treasure-trove.



Now for some Roberta Flack ....

I also have a soft spot for songs I grew up with as a kid which were played on the radio. I have CD compilation box sets and have compiled Qobuz play lists. Jimmy Page was a session musician on many so I suppose there is a rock connection. Pertula Clarks Down Town was very much a favourite which I sang along to. Jimmy Page spoke nostagically about his work on this at his talk at the Hay Fesival I attended.

Not posting much at the moment - life here is rather complicated.
But, still playing plenty of music when I get the chance.

Current main listening is to the German band Kraan who have been operating since the 70's. Starting out as a Proggy, Krautrock outfit they developed a Jazzy direction and became incredibly accomplished musicians along the way. Based around a constant 'power trio' gutar/bass/drums core occasionally fleshed out with extra instrumentalists.

Musically, Kraan have the intricate majesty of classic-period Rush (especially bassist Hellmut Hattler, who can sound very like Geddy Lee) and Level 42 at their peak. Great playing and their albums (especially live) are all worthwhile, being superbly recorded and produced overall.

Give them a listen!

Accept - Humanoid