Record Reviews

SPIROGYRA ~ A CANTERBURY TALE CASTLE 1258 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 5050 Although originating from Canterbury, SpirogyraFind albums by this artist is not considered as part of the Canterbury Scene gang. They were a folk / rock or rather an acid / folk group, influenced as much by the British folk music as by the Psychedelic movement of the late 1960’s. Fronted by Martin CockerhamFind albums by this artist, who also wrote all of their material, and including the wonderful singer Barbara GaskinFind albums by this artist, they recorded only three albums: St. RadigundsFind albums with this title (1971), Old Boot WineFind albums with this title (1972) and Bells, Boots And ShamblesFind albums with this title (1973), all included here with additional, previously unreleased material. In retrospect it is quite clear that Spirogyra were one of the most accomplished representatives of the genre, sadly little known in comparison to other similar outfits like Steeleye SpanFind albums by this artist, Fairport ConventionFind albums by this artist or The Incredible String BandFind albums by this artist (to which they were the closest in style). The quality of the material, as well as the truly excellent instrumental work (by additional band members changing from album to album) is amply documented here for us to enjoy. The albums stand the test of time with ease, being as moving and exciting today as they were when originally recorded. For fans of the genre this is an absolute must!

CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

	SPIROGYRA ~ BELLS, BOOTS AND SHAMBLES REPERTOIRE 4137 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock 3rd and last studio album from 1973. Similar to the 2 previous releases and definitely as good.
	CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

	SPIROGYRA ~ BURN THE BRIDGES REPERTOIRE 4846 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock A collection of 17 previously unavialable tracks by this great folk-rock, psychedelic Prog group. The material contains mostly demos and early versions of songs later included on their albums, which portray the changes the songs went through during the recording stage. Very interesting material.
	CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

	SPIROGYRA ~ OLD BOOT WINE REPERTOIRE 4132 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock 2nd album from 1972. More of the same wonderful stuff. Led by Barbara Gaskin, who`s great voice and subtle interpretations sound as fresh today as ever.
	CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

	SPIROGYRA ~ ST. RADIGUNS REPERTOIRE 4070 ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock 1st album from 1972. Spirogyra were one of the leaders of the British Folk Rock movement, and this wonderful debut album shows how intricate and sophisticated this music can be. Absolute delight for mind and body!
	CD 1 Recommend To A Friend