Hatfield and the North - Hatfield and the North

Part of the Charisma series. Japanese reissue packaged in a miniature LP sleeve. Originally released in 1974. Virgin. 2004. Album Description

excellent

Hatfield and the North were one of the more creative bands from the 70's. Much of the debut sounds like ambient sounds combined with light jazz. Every so often you can hear some Camel and Caravan influences, however, on this album, the band doesn't quite have the memorable songwriting that the former two bands had since the very beginning. Some of the instrumental jams are a bit too messy and quiet to catch my attention.

BUT, that's not really important, since I still really love this debut album anyway. The female vocals are delicate and beautiful as well. Some of the songs sound humorous, but much like Gong, it doesn't interfere with the more serious sounding songs- just adds more diversity and makes the bands talent stand out that much more. July 16, 2008

Excellence Amidst the Absurdity

Musically, this album is 4-star impressive. Just don't look for any substance lyrically. The song titles and lyrics are feeble attempts at quirky humor that gets old fast. It is unfortunate because had they at least made some of the efforts more serious in the lyrical department, I would consider this a classic and must have for fans of the Canterbury scene of the 70's. It is certainly a keeper but if you can't get past the nonsensical lyrics, better steer clear. For that reason alone, it will not be a frequent spinner in my CD player although the music is always very satisfying.

If you have all the Camel and Caravan albums, round out your collection with both Hatfield efforts. You should enjoy them.

- Scriptor


November 10, 2006

close to perfect

This is probably the most uniformly brilliant and inventive piece of canterburian progressive rock I have ever heard. Every single composition displays extremely intricate arrangement, chord patterns, and amazing virtuosic musicianship. Dave Stewart's keyboard work is absolutely indespensable and the whole band displays some of the most melodic and confoundingly beautiful ensemble work this side of Mozart. Not only does the music improve but it is essential for repeated listening. This is a defining statement not just for canterbury sound but for progressive rock as a whole. One of the most accomplished works of the whole genre! November 26, 2005

Serious music for serious minds

This cd would require more active listening but generally the results are very rewarding. I've listened to this more than 20 times and I still discover new sounds and new twists. Dave and crew must've been into some kind mind enhancing potion to create such complex music. September 16, 2005

Not Sinclair's best work

I bought this based on my appreciation of Sinclair's work with Caravan and Camel but also due to someone describing the album as the one he'd take to a desert island. Not me. The songs here are sloppy compared to Sinclair's work with the other bands. No doubt in those situations the other musicians held him to higher standards than when he was calling the shots himself. April 13, 2005

More reviews at Amazon.com ...