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BEING
WIGWAM
1974, FINLAND - EURO 13.00
Label: ESOTERIC RECORDINGS
ALBUM REVIEW
4th album by the Finnish Prog Masters Wigwam marking the arrival of the group at a point of maturity after the initial period of searching for their unique voice, as reflected on their first two releases. This album is often considered as one of the finest examples of Finnish Prog and together with its predecessor Fairyport it presents Wigwam as one of Prog's all time highest achievements. Unfortunately it was also the last studio recording by the original lineup of Wigwam, with the second lineup changing considerably the band's musical direction. The band's core: vocalist Jim Pembroke (a British expatriate living in Finland), keyboardist Jukka Gustavson, who was the band's principal composer, bassist Pekka Pohjola and drummer Ronnie Osterberg are joined by several guest musicians, mostly woodwind / brass players, including Jazz saxophonists Juhani Aaltonen and Pekka Poyry, expanding the overall sound of the basic quartet. The compositions are all outstanding, moody and full of unexpected turns and twists. Superb instrumental sections allow all musicians to express their talents, often moving into lengthy Jazzy improvisations. Pembroke's English vocals were a great asset for the group and contributed to their immense popularity outside of Finland. Almost four decades after this material was recorded, it still sounds fresh and exciting, ready to be discovered by new generations of music lovers. Absolutely essential! (Jazzis - Rate Your Music)
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