IN SEARCH OF THE LOST CHORD

The first album by the band as a rock group, as opposed to the virtually unrelated pop outfit of the 60's ("Go now"), and their subsequent (excellent) one off orchestral project, "Days of Future passed".

Inevitably much of the music now sounds somewhat dated. For example, the poppy "Ride my see-saw", displays all the innocence of the flower power era, but in prog terms when seen in isolation is simplistic. There are however strong indications of high quality music which was to come.

"The actor" is a more structured piece with two distinct time signatures, which allows Justin Hayward to display his admirable vocal talents, backed by those now famous perfect harmonies.

Ray Thomas' usually contributes one or two compositions to each album, on which he takes lead vocals. Had it not been for the fact that Justin Hayward has such a wonderful and distinctive voice, we would perhaps have enjoyed the privilege of hearing Thomas' captivating vocals on a greater proportion of the band's output. Here, Thomas' contribution "Legend of a mind" is his tribute to 60's guru Timothy Leary. This trippy, flute driven piece is actually quite progressive, but once again now sounds rather dated.

In all, the hippy, flower power influences are strong here, but that does not detract from quality of the music, which remains thoroughly enjoyable.

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