I was introduced to them with their 1975 album, Warrior On the Edge of
Time, at the beginning of my freshman year in high school. They were
the definitive space rock band, with lots of reverb and atmospheric
synths, and looking back now, I'd have to say that their sound owed just
a little to 2000 Light Years From Home by the Stones. They were an odd
mix, with material that went from very laid back and trippy to tracks
like Kings of Speed, that bordered on proto-punk.
This album exploited the band's relationship with noted science fiction
and fantasy author, Michael Moorcock, who supplied some lyrics and even
read a couple of poetry pieces over their atmospheric backing tracks.
The band was (and apparently still is) led by Dave Brock, main guitarist
and songwriter. Simon House was playing electric violin and mellotron,
though he later departed to play with Bowie on his '78 tour (Stage) and
on The Lodger. Their bass player at this time was none other than Lemmy
Kilmeister, who was forced out of the band after a drug bust in Canada
on their North American tour later that year - not sure whatever
happened to him - he showed potential. This album also featured a
double drummer sound with Simon King and Alan Powell, and sax, flute,
and woodwinds by Nik Turner.
If I recall correctly, they were known for sort of elaborate stage and
lighting shows, done kind of on the cheap - that and dancing girls.
john barrick
Doug Berg wrote:
>
> --- In Mellotronists@yahoogroups.com
> <mailto:Mellotronists%40yahoogroups.com>, "JAMES STRAUSS" <jandjstrz@...>
> wrote:
> >
> > Vintage space rock.
> > Groovy baby...dig the lab coats...!!!
> > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiFaKz4QScU
> <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiFaKz4QScU>
> >
> > Did they use a mellotron in this?
> > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-R4MM4ru58
> <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-R4MM4ru58>
> >
>
> I have their first 3 records, first was out in 69. Remember them doing
> the Stonehenge Festivals back then. Kind of like Pink Fairies,Focus,
> hard edge yet spacey. If I can dig out the albums I believe there is
> Mellotron on the early albums, which is why I probably still have
> them. Also have live concert on reel to reel of Hawkwind, Kayak,P{ink
> Fairies, Roxy Music either from BBC or King Biscuit show.
>