ACT ONE

Named after the eponymous poem of John Gay (from 1728),BEGGAR'S OPERA were found in late 60's in Glascow,Scotland and were signed by Vertigo Label.They debuted in 1970 with an excellent first LP ''Act one''.At a time when GENESIS or YES were trying to find their own identity,BEGGAR'S OPERA clearly mixed classical music with heavy rock,resulting a spectacular work.Comparisons with THE NICE are undenieable,but BEGGAR'S OPERA had a heavier and more polished sound.Sometimes they borrow classical pieces from famous composers transforming them into superb classical rock dynamites,other times they focus on playing original material with tasteful Hammond organ to the front and light beautiful piano passages.This is one of the best connections between classical music and heavy progrressive rock,which make this album an absolutely essential addition in your collection!