Sunday, November 6, 2016

Camel - Moonmadness (1976)


Elite-tier prog. Lots of synths on this one, and an overall more laid-back feel than their previous records. Of course, there's still plenty of noodle-y instrumental sections, so don't you worry about that. Also: some of the best production I've ever heard. So clear and crisp, but warm and pillowy.

I only recently heard Moonmadness for the first time -- I made the mistake of trusting this dumb-dumb who told me that Mirage and The Snow Goose were their only good records, and it took me years to realize how wrong he was -- so it's probably too soon to tell, but it might be my favorite Camel. At the very least, it's as good as their first three.

Track listing:
1. Aristillus
2. Song Within a Song
3. Chord Change
4. Spirit of the Water
5. Another Night
6. Air Born
7. Lunar Sea

So far beyond the sky
Not knowing how or why
You realize this feeling is forever


You should also check out:
Earth and Fire -
Atlantis (1973)
Nektar - Remember the Future
(1973) + Magic Is a Child (1977)

6 comments:

  1. Oh my gosh I'm so sorry you were set up to avoid this one!

    Mirage and Snow Goose are both terrific, but Moonmadness might be my favorite!
    Going by some of the things you've posted in the past, I reckon Rain Dances is right up your alley too. Another great one!

    -Neil Laperriere
    w7shittermoth.bandcamp.com

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    1. Already heard it, listened to it right after I heard this one. Totally dig it!

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  2. Have to disagree about the worth of the music on this one. Camel's best is the 2nd album, "Mirage." Both "Snow Goose" and "Rain Dances" are superior to this album. Great recording quality cannot make up for a dearth of inspiration.

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  3. Mirage > Moonmadness > Debut > Snow Goose > Rain Dances

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    Replies
    1. I'd switch Snow Goose and Debut, but otherwise we're in agreement

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