GENTLE GIANT

I am vaguely reminded of early Jethro Tull with this album, but perhaps it is just the muddy, early 70's production values. In any case, the beginnings of GG's unique style can be picked out of these songs. For the most part, this is probably the most accessable GG album, though that doesn't mean it is easy to absorb. This is probably most notable for being almost devoid of the complex counterpoint playing and vocalising that would dominate the next 7 albums. But that is not a bad thing.

Giant is a good opener, kicking off the album is a rocking style and featuring some nice dynamics. Funny Ways is a much simpler style ballad that would be expanded for live use and would remain in the live set for most of their career (don't let my "simpler" comment fool you though, it is still not a "simple" song). Alucard I quite enjoy for it's sinister backwards vocal treatments and interesting arrangements. Isn't it Quiet and Cold is a lovely little folky diddy with affected vocals from brother Phil. Nothing At All is the showpiece number, with a bit of an overlong drum solo that featrues some Liszt quotes toward the end, bookended by a minor key acoustic type number that is reminiscent of Funny Ways. Why Not? is a rocking song and probably the closest they ever got to blues rock were it not for Kerry Minnear's mideval interlude in the middle (with quite amusing lyrics as well). The Queen is something of a throwaway, but mildly entertaining and certainly out of character for the band (at least in relation to future albums).

All in all, a decent debut that meerly hints at that unique and impressive song writing that was to come. A solid 3 stars. If you like them you will get it eventually, but don't start here.