Discovering a band/artist that checks all the boxes, whether new or new to you, it is one of the great pleasures that comes from the music world. Having watched Pete’s video review of Skywhale’s album The World at Mind’s End recently released on vinyl from PQR Disques, I knew I had to check this band out. The band was formed in Bristol UK in 1974, and they released their only album in 1977. A fine blend of all instrumental fusion and progressive rock influences, all the musicians have a chance to shine, and those unison runs coupled with varied instrumentation keeps the sound fresh. Flute, Saxophone and Violin allow the band to capture a variety of sounds and combinations. “Hydralic Fever” features lively soloing from guitarist Steve Robshaw, but the keyboards and saxophone are full on too. The flute gets a chance to shine on the opening “Two Budda Garage” and a strong Canterbury influence can be detected on this track. The blending of Prog and Jazz appear throughout the title track, and a heavy classical influence for the opening of “Eternal Optimist (The Rat)” is an interesting twist that suddenly bursts open with wonderful soloing from guitarist Steve Robshaw and the band really shines as a unit here. The closing “Boggles” gets a bit funky, and you get to go around the circle with saxophone, electric keys, violin, and guitar all taking their turn.
What a nice discovery, one I doubt I would have found on my own. If you love flute, you’ll find plenty of it here to enjoy. Honestly, one instrument does not dominate, all of the soloists are highly capable, and the songs are well-composed and memorable, Unfortunately, this is the only album from the band, but thankfully we have this to enjoy.
Tracks:
1. Epicure
2. Hydralic Fever
3. Two Budda Garage
4. The World at Mind’s End
5. Eternal Optimist (The Rat)
6. Boggles
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