Big Sleep — Bluebell Wood 1971 (UK, Progressive, Folk Rock)

Big Sleep — Bluebell Wood 1971 (UK, Progressive, Folk Rock)

The only album by a Welsh band. The band emerged from the intriguing 1960s band Eyes of Blue (which included four of the five future members of Big Sleep). Drummer John Weathers later played in Gentle Giant. But his subsequent career, like that of keyboardist Phil Ryan, was linked to the band Man. The 1971 LP Bluebell Wood, released on the Pegasus label, stood out primarily for its unique arrangements and notable use of strings. Abandoning hard rock elements, the musicians focused on composing leisurely compositions in minor keys. Four vocalists (John Weathers even sang and composed) provided ample variety. The album had a keyboard-based sound, but with a prominent guitar. There's a touch of flute and saxophone. Gary Pickford-Hopkins has good vocals, and the music is beautiful and melodic, yet moderately complex. The album certainly deserves the attention of fans of early British progressive rock.

Tracks:

01. Saint & Sceptic — 0:00

02. Bluebell Wood — 6:35

03. Death Of A Hope — 18:02

04. When The Sun Was Out — 23:38

05. Odd Song — 27:20

06. Auntie James — 31:14

07. Free Life — 36:00

08. Watching Love Grow — 42:30


Personnel:

Phil Ryan – organ, piano
Ritchie Francis – bass, piano, vocals
John "Pugwash" Weathers – drums, vocals
Raymond "Taff" Williams — guitar
Gary Pickford-Hopkins — vocals, guitar