GHOSTS

This was one of my favourite albums of the 70's. The Strawbs were always a very interesting and tastefully complex band without being overblown and with compelling lyrics. Without a doubt they were one of the best acoustic/electric rock bands of the decade that too few people know about. "Starshine/Angel Wine" is my favourite song here, almost like a children's lullaby with a great cello mixed with piano and soft drums before breaking into a rockier second half with an excellent guitar riff. "Don't Try to Change Me" is similar, beginning as a light upbeat acoustic tune, and then introducing a biting electric guitar at the 1 minute mark. But the real masterpieces here are "Ghosts" and "The Life Auction", as well as the two very moving and haunting acoustic ballads, "You and I" and "Grace Darling". Not much I can say except all four of these songs are stunning. "You and I" ends with a great lyric that symbolizes the carefree youth of the day: "The road to nowhere never climbs we changed direction a dozen times That was you and I when we were young". This band always had time for one or two fun tracks on their masterworks too, "Where Do You Go (When You Need A Hole To Crawl In)" breaks up the pace of this album perfectly. A beautiful work that should not be overlooked! Five stars