THE CRAZY WORLD OF ARTHUR BROWN

This was a very significant album at the time of it's release in 1968 because there was nothing out there quite like it. Sixties psychedelia gone beserk. Fronted by a man who was larger than life and a lot left of center.The crazy world of Arthur Brown indeed. It was produced by Pete Townsend and featured the legendary Vincent Crane on the organ. Interesting that Carl Palmer would join this band not long after this was released and toured with them for this album. He and Crane would then leave and form ATOMIC ROOSTER which was just a stepping stone for Palmer who would shorlly thereafter be in ELP.

"Prelude-Nightmare" has this orchestral intro before the organ comes in followed by the bass, drums then vocals. Arthur gets theatrical before 2 minutes (get used to it) as Crane lets it rip on the organ. Horns come in late. "Fanfare-Fire Poem" opens with horns then this groovy led organ melody takes over. Spoken words join in. It becomes very intense.

"Fire" was the hit single. A catchy organ / vocal led tune. "Come And Buy" is a mid paced relaxing track with vocals. It picks up 1 1/2 minutes in with fast paced vocals then it settles back as contrasts continue. Arthur gets theatrical 5 minutes in.

"Time / Confusion" is a mellow tune with vocals. It changes 3 1/2 minutes in to a more upbeat sound. I like it. "I Put A Spell On You" is kind of bluesy and is a cover.

"Spontaneous Apple Creation" is all about Arthur with the spoken words then singing then his fast paced spoken words. "Rest Cure" is one of my favourites. Piano late. "I've Got Money" opens with drums as piano and vocals join in before a minute. Arthur gets...theatrical.

"Child Of My Kingdom" sounds great when it settles 30 seconds in with piano, drums and reserved vocals. It does pick up after a minute. Some whistling in this one too.This is my favourite track.

A must for fans of sixties psychedelia. My rating is based on how innovative this was at the time. I must admit I much prefer his later stuff with KINGDOM COME.