Camel ‘Mirage’ 1974
We all know Genesis, Pink Floyd & King Crimson within the sphere of progressive rock but what about Camel? I’m ashamed to say that five years ago I didn’t know who they were. Five years later I give them a listen once a week.
Formed in Surrey in 1971 they like most progressive rock bands didn’t hit the heights of the previous bands I mentioned, they garnered a cult status. To me their first four albums are up there with the very best the genre has to offer but like most hitting the late 70’s & 80’s saw a dip in creativity & a confused sound. I think most were trying to replicate Genesis’s transcendence from progressive to pop, times had moved on.
I digress, so what of ‘Mirage’ it’s an improvement on their self-titled debut & I think they found their trademark sound. To me technically they are better than the three bands I mentioned previously just like Gentle Giant were.
From the off you know you are in for a treat, ‘freefall’ sets the pace for the rest of the album & keyboards are rife. To me ‘Nimrodel/The Procession/The White Rider’ the triple song is the centrepiece of the album, some disagree but the song has everything from an extravagant beginning to Fantastic vocals from lead man Andrew Latimer. The band are extremely tight musical throughout the album with fine guitar work on ‘lady fantasy’ almost bordering on heavy rock & a great way to see out the album.
The album cover isn’t one that wows but it is one you will always remember, simple & to the point. Mirage’ definitely is the album to start with, it’s one of the best progressive rock albums ever but that’s just my opinion.
Sleeve 7/10
Music 8.5/10
Sound quality 9/10