NOTES ON A PICNIC

I haven't heard the first album, which I guess is why the band are in the Prog/folk section, but let me assure you, this second album has got rid of that and is closer to a jazz/fusion sound with hints of Canterbury.

I believe this stuff was recorded in '73/'74 but never released back in the day. I think it may have been if the band were from and it was recorded in the UK or even Europe, but I can see why it would have sunk without trace in the US. The sound on this album suggests a touch of Comus but with a Curved Air and even PFM vibe...which I know doesn't sound very fusion. That comes mainly from the keys man who seems to be pulling the band in that direction. The aforementioned influences/comparisons are due to the prominent violin which is never JL Ponty flash but more of an enhancer of the sound and perhaps the melody too You can hear a bit of National Health and Hatfield and the North too even though it preceded them. It's not quite 'all over the map' but makes good use of its travel pass and was a speculative purchase in a sale as it looked very my kinda 70's ...and is a just under but will give it a 4 star rating and for those looking for an off the beaten track thing...those travel passes eh...I really would suggest giving it a try if any of the above 'influences and similarities' are in your wheelhouse.