Psychedelic folk, progressive folk. Ni fu ni fa.
First Utterance is the debut album of the progressive folk band Comus. It was released in 1971, with the opening song "Diana" being released as a single. First Utterance was notable for its unique blend of progressive rock, folk, psychedelia, and elements of paganism and the macabre. The overall thematic tone of the album is of vulnerable innocence facing abusive power, with songs dealing with such themes as necrophilia ("Drip Drip"), rape ("Diana", "Song to Comus") and shock therapy ("The Prisoner"). The record features an acoustic sound, including acoustic guitar, violin, flute, and lyrical, almost Arcadian, female harmonies. References to Comus by other bands and artists include Opeth, citing its lyrics in album and song titles and tattoos. Experimental outfit Current 93 also covered "Diana" as the opening song on their 1997 LP Horsey.
Psychedelic folk, progressive folk. Ni fu ni fa.
This is interesting for sure. Dark and sort of disturbing. Not sure I would listen again, but glad I heard it at least once. 3 stars.
Could’ve come out yesterday and it wouldn’t surprise me
Engagingly wierd and ahead of its time, but also uneven overall and frequently crossing the line into pretty demented territory. I can see this working very well as the soundtrack to some Wickerman-esque British pastoral horror film. As an album to sit and listen to for musical enjoyment... I don't regret the time spent with it, but doubt I'll be seeking out more.
Hm
Sorry this just isn’t my cup of tea.
Didn't strike me very much. At this point I have heard other similar folkish off center stuff. Maybe this came before?