GHOSTS

This was the STRAWBS last "classic" album released in 1975. It did pretty good in the USA as it was their highest charting album in that counrty, although overall it didn't sell as well there as "Hero & Heroine". Chas Cronk and Rod Coombes joined the band on bass and drums respectively after their band STEALER'S WHEEL had broken up.They were on the same label so it was a smooth transition. Interesting that Cousins wanted TEN YEARS AFTER's rhythm section and they wanted to join but Lambert wasn't for it. I like this album a lot but I must admit there are some very ordinary songs on here which keep me from offering up the fourth star.Too bad because there are some great tracks on here.

"Ghosts" is my favourite. I like the intro where they used harpichords that were put down on ten tracks at random.So it sounds pretty cool as strummed guitar joins in then vocals. Mellotron follows as it turns haunting. It's heavier 3 minutes in then it picks up. Prominant bass followed by some passionate vocals. Nice. "Lemon Pie" was the first single that didn't do much for them. I like the intro but the rest doesn't do much for me. "Starshine / Angel Wine" opens with reserved vocals and piano. The second part is much better especially the guitar.

"Where Do You Go" is a poppy, uptempo tune. Not a fan at all. "The Life Auction" is a really good tune opening with those ghostly vocals then kicking in after a minute. Mellotron too. Some powerful outbursts at times and a spooky ending. Great track. "Don't Try To Change Me" is another poppy tune with vocals. "Remembering" is a short dreamy intro to the next track "You And I (When We Were Young)".This track has to be a top three for me. Fragile vocals join in then tasteful guitar. Love the imagery given by the lyrics. "Grace Darling" has these choir-like vocals throughout. Not sure what to think of this one.

So lots to like but there's also some throw away tracks too. 3.5 stars it is.