Jeremy Spencer — Jeremy Spencer And The Children 1972 (UK, Gospel Blues Rock)

Jeremy Spencer — Jeremy Spencer And The Children 1972 (UK, Gospel Blues Rock)

Spencer's brief tenure as frontman in Fleetwood Mac was, in my opinion, a low point. Sandwiched awkwardly between the increasingly-progressive Peter Green songs and the soft-pop Bob Welch albums, Spencer's 50s revivalist songs seemed to lack inspiration and excitement.

Thankfully, he improved his songwriting skills and made a surprisingly entertaining album with a religious group now called "The Family International." River Phoenix (and his siblings), along with children of other aimless hippies, were born into this cult, and subsequently left when they came of age. Apparently Spencer is still a member...

As for the music, its mostly laid-back West-Coast style guitar rock. Some tracks feature sitar and harpsichord; a sort of hangover from the late 60s. Spencer's playing is, as usual, top notch. The obscure album credits don't really specify who sings, but his(?) voice is really good.

This fares a bit better than Fleetwood Mac's material at this time.


Tracks:

01. Can You Hear The Song — 0:00

02. The World In Her Heart — 3:02

03. Joan Of Arc — 6:19

04. The Prophet — 10:03

05. When I Looked To See The Sunshine — 13:28

06. Let’s Get On The Ball — 17:57

07. Someone Told Me — 22:20

08. Beauty For Ashes — 26:07

09. War Horse — 29:07

10. I Believe In Jesus — 35:14


Personnel:

Jeremy Spencer — vocals, slide guitar, piano, producer
Phil Ham (Gregory Morton) — lead guitar, flute, sitar
Michael (David Senek) — rhythm guitar, harmonica, vocals
Boaz (Paul Sarran) — bass, recorder, vocals
Ginnethon (Skip Whalen) — drums, tabla, congas, timpani
Moriah (Cheryl Kugler) — female vocals, tambourine