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LP
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SOMM 077LP
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First ever vinyl reissue of this UK prog-psych, originally release in 1971. Recorded at George Martin's AIR Studios and originally released on the collectable Vertigo label. A great mix of pastoral prog, hard-rock, blues, and west coast/Americana: long tracks, soft vocal harmonies, dual guitar. Hokus Poke formed in London in the late '60s, consisting of Clive Blenkhorn of lead guitar and vocals, Roger Clarke on guitar, Smith Campbell on bass, and Jonnie Miles on drums. Managed by Kenny Lynch, they secured a deal with the legendary Vertigo label. Earth Harmony, their sole album, was housed in a fabulous die-cut sleeve with photos taken by John Kelly, famous for his work on the Beatles' White Album. One of the rarest albums on the collectable Vertigo label. Original artwork in gatefold die-cut sleeve. Insert with liner notes by Richard Allen and rare photos. RIYL: Wishbone Ash, Traffic, Cream, Pink Floyd, Bronco, Fantasy, Fleetwood Mac... "For once, a Vertigo album that's better than its reputation would suggest" --Giles Hamilton (Galactic Ramble). "... pastoral bluesy prog from the early '70s UK, occupying that comfortable niche somewhere between Humble Pie and Wishbone Ash" --Alex Gitlin.
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CD
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PT 8028CD
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Hokus Poke's brief appearance in the early '70s grapples with the tired progressive trappings, injecting innovative playing and an overall energy. The band emerged from the late '60s with most members having already trodden the path of London's psychedelic scene and were taken under the auspicious wing of another celebrated 1960s figure in Kenny Lynch (Small Faces, etc). Earth Harmony was recorded when rock was still defining itself as the major musical force we are now readily familiar with. It speaks of pragmatic values amidst the clumsy, chaotic aftermath of psychedelia, infusing a taste of The Open Mind, Northwind and Wishbone Ash. Signed to Philips' progressive Vertigo label, the band emerged amidst a thriving music scene and saw their work slugging it out with the likes of Jade Warrior, Warhorse, Legend and Paul Jones. Recorded at George Martin's Air Studios in September 1971 and scheduled for an early release in 1972, Hokus Poke had ultimately produced an album worthy of their efforts and one which has since become highly-regarded amongst collectors and critics alike, while also remaining one of Vertigo's more overlooked releases.
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