EXOTIC BIRDS AND FRUIT

"Exotic Birds and Fruit" is another strong Procol Harum record which I like. It isn't exactly as good as "Grand Hotel" but sure in the same level with "A Salty Dog". 1974 came this seventh real album by Procol Harum and I think it is a well done work which I recommend people to hear some songs from. On of the best things with the record though is the dreamlike cover picture with exotic birds and fruit. I love the old style painting and I would like to have it on my wall. Unfortunately I don't own the vinyl.

Procol Harum here continues in the same great style like on Grand Hotel with symphonic rock songs, not especially progressive but sure special. I have'nt heard a band which sounds like this. Gary Brooker still sings and plays piano, Alan Cartwright bass, Chris Copping organ, Mick Grabham guitars, Barrie James Wilson drums and Keith Reid writes and BJ Cole plays pedal steel guitar.

The album has nine songs. All songs are enjoyable and well performed by the band. Two are really interesting and three are better than good. The best song is "The Idol" which is also one of the most progressive. I like the mighty feeling and the soundscape created within(8/10). "As Strong as Samson" is also a favourite wher I hear the wonderful organ and the emotions in Brooker's voice(8/10).

I also think that "Nothing but the truth" is a great starter with a joyful melody and nice strings(7/10) and "Butterfly Boys" is a pop song, happy and a nice pure piano(7/10). "Beyond the pale" is also worth naming with a key increase in the end and a pleasant feeling of melancholy(7/10). "The thin end of the wedge" is progressive but a bit monotonic and "Monsieur R Monde" is a well played rock'n'roll song with good guitars. I give those tracks and "Fresh Fruit" 6/10.

Over all is this a happy experience and the band sure lived with full helth 1974. This record is worth a strong three, in fact 7/10.

I know it looks like I give Procol Harum rather low ratings. I am new to the band and I don't think they're amongst the greatest musicians. But I do feel there is something fresh in this music which I am happy to hear.