LAMBERTLAND

Tasavallan Presidentti from Finland impressed me with their charming prog-infused song-based bluesrock second record (1971). A year later the band would release 'Lambertland' with a different singer and quite frankly; a totally different type of band. This is pure eclectic prog. Take some early Zappa ('King Kong' was mentioned earlier), add some Soft Machine, Fairport Convention, some Jan Akkerman style guitar (of Focus) and most importantly some Sammy Davis Junior (yes that jazz singer who sang 'Mr. Bojangles'). The combination of folk & jazz-rock with the beautiful artwork and title 'Lamberland' creates a unique journey through the imagination. Light-hearted, charming and full of positive creative energy. The quirkiness of the melodies and the way the rhythms are gently pumping are quite unique. The band uses interesting harmonies and finds original folky melodies. Pekka Pöyry plays both saxes and flutes and is great in always finding a suitable place in the music. Jukka Tolonen, a guitarist of some fame in Finland, mostly excels at finding nice quirky jazz riffs. The vocals of Eero Raittinen have fueled some debate and on the opining song he does in fact sings way out of tune. Since I do like the tone of his voice and his different way of singing (more like vocal jazz) I can actually appreciate his performances quite a lot. The album has a few very strong moments and no weak spots and I really like the totality of it. The Svart label has released a stunning vinyl reprint. 'Lambertland' may have its shortcomings, but it does deliver that truly original one-of-a-kind early seventies progressive rock experience like all too few album do. It's the kind of album you'd like to see in the PA top 100.