INDELIBLY STAMPED

"Indelibly Stamped" is the second full-length studio album by UK music act Supertramp. The album was released through A&M Records in June 1971. It's the successor to the eponymously titled debut full-length studio album from August 1970. Since the release of the first album quite a few lineup changes have occurred and only main composers Richard Davies (keyboards/backing- and lead vocals) and Roger Hodgson (backing- and lead vocals/guitars) remain from the lineup who recorded the predecessor. Hodgson has switched from bass to guitar, and new bassist is Frank Farrell. Kevin Currie has joined on drums, and Dave Winthrop has been added to the lineup performing flute and saxophone.

Stylistically Supertramp have changed a lot since the slightly progressive rock leaning debut album. "Indelibly Stamped" leans much more towards blues rock and soul and there's generally a lot more rock grooves and rock guitar riffs here and an uplifting positive attitude compared to the subtle and mellow sound of the debut album. "Indelibly Stamped" still features more subtle, melodic and quiet moments, but it's generally a louder and more rock oriented release. I used Procol Harum as a reference in my review of the debut album, but here I'd probably mention early Steely Dan or something like that instead (a track like "Your Poppa Don't Mind" could almost have been a Steely Dan song).

Supertramp still don't sound like they would sound a few years down the line, but that doesn't mean "Indelibly Stamped" isn't an enjoyable listen and a quality release in its own right. The album features a professional, organic, and detailed sound production, which suits the material well, so upon conclusion "Indelibly Stamped" is a good quality sophomore release from Supertramp. It may lack the last memorable hooks and catchy songwriting to lift if from good to excellent, but a 3 star (60%) rating is still warranted.