AN ASYLUM FOR THE MUSICALLY INSANE

This interesting album is certainly for the musically insane (in a good way). It is not the traditional prog folk album like one by Trees or Fairport Convention, despite being released around the same time. The instruments are more or less standard for a folk band: vocals, guitar, bass, percussion, flute. However, their style is very unique. I feel that going track by track will do the best for this curious band's first album.

"Armchair Theatre" - This energetic track is a mix of multiple genres. It has a bluegrass or country style guitar, paired with a lively flute. The kazoo (I think it is) solo adds a bit of humor to the song. One of my favorites on the album.

"Feel How So Cool The Wind" - This track is a bit more down to earth. The vocals have a ton of vibrato, making them stand out the most in this song. It is slightly reminiscent of Comus's First Utterance. The end of the track has humorous piano and singing.

"Sometime" - Again, the weird vibrato vocals that makes it special. The syncopation from the percussion makes the song catchy. Nice guitar.

"Maybe My Mind" - By this point, the vocals have become standard. The percussion gives the song a bouncy feel, while also making it sound a bit primitive. The winds solo is interesting.

"The Come On" - This reverts back to a slow bluesy folk song. It is reminiscent of more popular music from the time. The piano is nice.

"Terror In My Soul" - Excellent, excellent piano in the beginning, though depressing. This track is very Comus-like. The vocals remind me of "Drip, Drip". The flute livens it up. Around 3:23 is my favorite part, aside from the piano opening.

"Travelling Shoes" - This track is also more popular sounding. Not one of the best tracks on the album.

"Winter" - I cannot decide whether this beautiful track is depressing or uplifting. It is very similar to the traditional prog folk bands like Fairport Convention, with the exception of the wind solos between verses.

"Nothing Will Come To Nothing" - Nice keys in the beginning. After that, it is a slow blues bit of just vocals and piano. It then switches to a very jazzy piano solo. Hats off to Nigel Phillips for that. It continues to be jazzy, thought more atonal. It ends with a reprise of the vocals and keys. One of the best of the album.