SNAFU

"Snafu" is the second full-length studio album by UK, Bristol based psychedelic rock/progressive rock act East of Eden. The album was released through Deram Records in February 1970. It´s the successor to "Mercator Projected" from April 1969 (which was also released through Deram Records). Even before the release of "Mercator Projected" drummer Dave Dufont and bassist Steve York (who both play on the album) had left East of Eden and they were quickly replaced by Brian Appleyard and Andy Sneddon. Appleyard didn´t last long though and was replaced by Geoff Britton in July 1969. So the lineup on "Snafu" is: Geoff Nicholson (guitar, piano, harmonica, vocals), Dave Arbus (electric violin, flute, bagpipes, saxophones, trumpet, Indian bells), Ron Caines (soprano & alto saxophones, piano/organ, stylophone, vocals), Andy Sneddon (bass, strings), and Geoff Britton (drums/percussion).

Stylistically East of Eden have developed their style and although there are still traces of their psychedelic rock roots heard on the album (this is at times pretty laid back and spaced out, although that´s not the dominant atmosphere of the album) and they can still occasionally rock pretty hard, "Snafu" is a more jazz/rock oriented release than its predecessor spiced up with a lot of other influences from for example middle eastern/indian music traditions and because of the complexity and eclectic way the music is presented you can add an avant garde influence here too. Sometimes even venturing into big band type parts, but also keeping things organic and rocking (think the busy big band part of "21st Century Schizoid Man" by King Crimson). It´s one of East of Eden´s greatest strengths...that they can both deliver some really sophisticated and relatively complex jazz/rock while still playing organic rock´n´roll. The vocals are relatively sparse and "Snafu" is mostly focused on instrumental sections, so the vocals are arguably the least interesting feature of the album, although they certainly aren´t badly performed.

Upon conclusion this is a highly experimental rock album which should appeal to the more open-minded late 60s/early 70s music listener. It´s a well produced release too and paired with the high level musicianship and the adventuorus songwriting approach "Snafu" is a high quality release from East of Eden. A 3.5 - 4 star (75%) rating is deserved.