TCCDM Pulls One Out..."In The Garden" - Gypsy (1971)

"In The Garden" - Gypsy (1971)

     I really like Gypsy, and this was the album I was missing from my collection.  "In The Garden" was Gypsy's sophomore effort following their fantastic double LP debut, and it picks up pretty much right where they left off.  Not quite as strong, but there's very little drop-off.  Enjoyable spin front to back.  Only an ill-advised drum solo causes aspersions to be cast.  Not bad, but certainly unnecessary.  As for the rest of the spin, I'm cool.  

     Out of Minnesota, Gypsy was a progressive rock band with melodic flavors lightly dusted in psych affectation.  The band has always had a unique and identifiable sound.  The gorgeous B3 Hammond, along with the guitars, vocals, and harmonies, pleases the senses like a thousand marbles bouncing their way through the East River Tunnel.  Not non-stop, but there are moments throughout the square that definitely give me a rush.  It's so pleasing.  Good lyrics and inspired arrangements keep things interesting.  Overall, the music has a pleasant stoner-esque atmosphere.  Gypsy's first album is a must-own for any collection.  "In The Garden" makes for a nice companion.  Also, pick up their third album, "Antithesis" (1972) if you find it cheap, for there's some good stuff on that one too. 

"In The Garden" - Gypsy (back)

"In The Garden" - Gypsy (inside gatefold)

Favorites include:
"As Far As You Can See (...)"
"Around You"
"Here (In The Garden) Part One & Two"

Metromedia ad poster

     The original copy comes in a die-cut gatefold cover with the artwork displayed vertically. The vinyl has the rarer blue label variant from the black Metromedia label.  The album also includes a 9"x14" order form/poster that advertises a Metromedia sampler.  KSHE was a big advocate of the band, and it's easy to see why.  In 2016, I spoke with keyboardist James "Owl" Walsh about the days of Gypsy and the dues paid.  You'll like the band even better after checking it out. 

Metromedia Records 

Cat #
KMD 1044
SIDE 1  DEADWAX
XSV 223692-T  A  T2
SIDE 2  DEADWAX
XSV 223693-T  B  T1

"As Far As You Can See..." - Gypsy / "In The Garden" (1971) 

TRACKS:
A1  "Around You" 5:27
A2  "Reach Out Your Hand" 2:33
A3  "As Far As You Can See (As Much As You Can Feel)" 12:09
B1  "Here (In The Garden) Part One" 3:11
B2  "Here (In The Garden) Part Two" 3:52
B3  "Blind Man" 3:59
B4  "Time Will Make It Better" 2:53

PERSONNEL:
Enrico Rosenbaum - guitar, vocals
James "Owl" Walsh - keyboards, vocals
James Johnson - guitar, vocals
Bill Lordan - drums
Willie Weeks - bass
Joe Lala - percussion

Good stuff.

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