THUD

It's difficult to put into words how talented the late Kevin Gilbert was. To quote Andy Thompson of Planet Mellotron : "By all accounts a musical prodigy-capable of playing any song he heard on any instrument handed to him-Gilbert possessed an impeccable sense of melody and a biting, cynical wit". I strongly suggest you read the excellent bio here at ProgArchives. He was a big fan of SPOCK'S BEARD and a supporter of those ProgFest's in LA in the nineties. He helped with the sound and lent his mellotron and other musical equipment to any band who wanted to use them. As far as this album goes the lyrics are simply genius. Absolutely brilliant in many ways.

"When You Give Your Love To Me" is mostly vocals and strummed acoustic guitar until the drums join in.This is all about the lyrics though. Some great lines in this one. "Goodness Gracious" opens with acoustic guitar as vocals and mellotron join in. Electric guitar comes and goes. A full sound a minute in. Some nice bass in this one. More mellotron late. Great tune. "Joytown" has these nice deep sounds but it's all about the lyrics as Kevin looks at this mythical place called "Joytown" where everything is the way it's supposed to be and everyone loves everyone. Lines like "Jimi plays the perfect note that never seems to end". Sax late. Brilliant stuff. "Waiting" opens with drums and percussion as guitar and organ join in. Vocals follow. The vocal melodies are a nice touch. Again the lyrics are humerous and witty.

"Tea For One" is such a gorgeous and uplifting track. A top three for sure. Cool story too. "Shadow Self" opens with strummed guitar as vocals come in. I like the processed backup vocals and the mellotron here. It gets fuller after 1 1/2 minutes. They're kicking it good 5 1/2 minutes in. "The Tears Of Audrey" opens with strummed guitar and reserved vocals. Drums and bass join in. Sad song. The bass and drums sound so good early on "Shrug (Because Of Me And You)". Mellotron comes in and it sounds outstanding. "All Fall Down" is solemn with horns to open as fragile vocals join in. The chorus is brighter as he sings about having a good time before we all fall down (die). "Song For A Dead Friend" is such a sad song about losing a close friend. Piano, acoustic guitar and reserved vocals. Check out the lyrics though.Gulp.

Thanks for the music Kevin, you won't be forgotten.