THE UNDERFALL YARD

While it might come in as a second favorite it's really hard not to call it their best album. This was a huge turning point for the band that would somewhat stay present with minor lineup changes for the next 10 years. But this is the beginning of the period that puts Big Big Train right up there with the greats.

The addition of David Longdon is a massive piece of what this band will be remembered for. Former XTC guitarist Dave Gregory makes an appearance here but would become a full time member not long after. I became a big fan of Dave Gregory from his contributions which became essential to this 10 year period.

Victorian Brickwork really shines with the brass instrument sounds that would continue to create a distinct sound that would make Big Big Train not sound too much like Genesis. This tune has some 70's Folk and Soft Rock sounds that actually remind me a ton of Seals and Crofts.

Last Train is an exciting powerful song with really good guitar work and kind of captures the sound Genesis had maybe in 1976 right after the departure of Peter Gabriel.

Winchester Diver is one of my all time favorites from this band. One of the top songs that I would want to use to introduce other people to Big Big Train. The flute playing kicks this song into high gear. As great as this album is and even a Prog Rock essential The Underfall Yard is Winchester Diver is a masterpiece that makes this album many times more special. A track that should get any Prog Rock fans immediate attention.

The Underfall Yard is a great epic for ending this album and also to show this band does really great epics.

Big Big Train starting with this album has been one of my greatest surprises in the last century. I highly regard them and consider them Prog Rock legends. The albums in this era are very old school Symphonic Prog but including elements that you wouldn't expect that make Big Big Train even more unique. They are the best at bringing back everything you would ever love or enjoy when it comes to 70's Prog Rock.

PS: If you like the music on this album the EP Far Skies Deep Time compliments it very well. I actually bought that EP first because of Kingmaker. Because of how similar the music is and the close timeline I felt it was worth mentioning.