3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Take The Plunge!, September 14, 2008
This review is from: Counter Culture (Audio CD)
Like his late contemporary Frank Zappa, Roy Harper's name is probably better known than his music. I would venture to guess that thousands of American kids like myself first noticed his name in the title of a Led Zeppelin number on their 3rd album. A few years later we got a taste of his vocal talents on the Pink Floyd tune Have A Cigar. Whatever the reasons, Roy Harper's music has never become as well known as his name, and that's too bad. The man has been a creative powerhouse of a songwriter/vocalist/progressive electro-acoustic guitar stylist, and an outspoken socio-political observer for the past 40 years. In short, a vital artist deserving wider recognition, which brings us to the topic of this excellent anthology.
If you've never heard Harper's music, this is a great place to start. The collection contains many standout tracks including Another Day, The Same Old Rock (with Jimmy Page), and When An Old Cricketer Leaves The Crease on disc one. Pink Floyd fans will love this tune! Disc two may be even better as it kicks off with some superb material from the 1977 release Bullinamingvase. The 19 minute One Of Those Days In England, and Cherishing The Lonesome are two of Roy's finest pieces. The former contains not a dull moment, and is full of lovely melodies, great energy and splendid guitar work. Harper sings his heart out on Cherish... one of his best rockers! Miles Remains is an atmospheric reverb drenched guitar sound sculpture lamenting the passing of the great jazz legend. Also included is the title track to Harper's superb 2000 release, The Green Man. If you don't prefer compilations, that album would be a great place to start. It features top flight material, beautifully recorded acoustic guitars, and phenomenal vocals from the then 60 year old Harper.
On the other hand, if you want a superb overview of a brilliant but neglected career singer/songwriter and visionary, you can't do any better than Counter Culture. Mr. Harper handpicked the tunes himself, and he's written extensive liner notes to compliment this superb collection!
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