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The two sides of Sopwith Camel

Annie Van Auken | Planet Earth | 02/14/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There was a lot of heavy music coming out of San Francisco in the late Sixties. And then, there was SOPWITH CAMEL.



At first glance, Camel was a bubble gum pseudo-British rock & roll band. Their TOP 40 song, "Hello Hello" gives this impression, while the goofy "Little Orphan Annie," "Walk In The Park" and "Things I Could Do With You" add to such a conclusion. But that's only their whimsical side. There's a LOT more to this group than pre-teen froth.



The subject of "You Always Tell Me Baby" is the angry frustration of being controlled and made to feel "not good enough."

"Frantic Desolation" succinctly describes the withdrawal and confusion one experiences when a lover is gone.

"Cellophane Woman" seems to complete the cycle. It's a seething, lashing and dismissive song.



But it's not all bleak. "Postcard From Jamaica" is a written invitation to join a special someone on that island. "The Great Morpheum" is the finest theater where "one can see a show." "Maybe In A Dream" is an overlooked gem-- gorgeous. "Saga Of The Lowdown Letdown" clearly should have been the group's next 'A' side-- Contrary to the title, it's a jolly song that really rocks in the bridge.



To flesh out SOPWITH CAMEL, one bonus track is included. There's not a bad tune in the bunch. One of the best KAMA SUTRA label albums of all time.



Highest recommendation."