Easily one
of Donovan's most successful albums – but also a brilliant blend
of folk and jazz that forged a bold new sound in the 60s! Part
of the strength
of the set comes from arranger John Cameron – an artist that we
love for his jazz and easy work
of the late 60s, and who's working here with players that include British jazzmen Phil Seamen, Tony Carr, Ronnie Ross, and Harold McNair! The instrumental component
of the album alone is worth the price
of admission – as Cameron gently blends together moddish and trippy styles, alongside some folksier vocals and guitar from Donovan. But it's also Donovan's own extrapolation
of styles
of the time that really makes the album a masterpiece – a strange post-folk mode
of expression that's almost a British counterpart to the genius
of Simon & Garfunkel, but which is arguably darker and more intellectual. Apart from classic hits like "
Museum" and "Mellow Yellow", the album also features some moodier brilliance on tracks that include "The Observation", "Hampstead Incident", "Sunny South Kensington", "Writer In The Sun", "Sand & Foam", and "House
Of Jansch".
(Brown label Columiba Limited Edition pressing. Cover has ringwear, edge wear, and spotty discoloration from age.)