Crazy World Of Arthur Brown CD

The songs from side 1 of the original LP appear on the CD in both mono and stereo versions.

Produced by Pete Townsend, this 1968 set from the here-today-but-unfortunately-gone-tomorrow produced the hit "Fire," as well as "Children Of My Kingdom," "Rest Cure," "I've Got Money," and 12 more.

Though a bit over-the-top, this album was still powerful and surprisingly melodic, and managed to be quite bluesy and soulful even as the band overhauled chestnuts by James Brown and Screamin' Jay Hawkins. "Spontaneous Apple Creation" is a willfully histrionic, atonal song that gives Captain Beefheart a run for his money. Though this one-shot was not (and perhaps could not ever be) repeated, it remains an exhilaratingly reckless slice of psychedelia. The CD reissue includes both mono and stereo versions of five of the songs. Although the mono mixes lack the full-bodied power of the stereo ones, they're marked by some interesting differences, especially in the brief spoken and instrumental links between tracks. ~ Richie Unterberger

Import reissue of the 1968 debut by the theatrical rocksinger's band, featuring both mono and stereo versions of five tracks, including the #2 smash 'Fire'. 15 tracks total. Pete Townsend was associate producer of the album. Though a bit over-the-top, this album was still powerful and surprisingly melodic, and managed to be quite bluesy and soulful even as the band overhauled chestnuts by James Brown and Screamin' Jay Hawkins. 'Spontaneous Apple Creation' is a willfully histrionic, atonal song that gives Captain Beefheart a run for his money. Though this one-shot was not (and perhaps could not ever be) repeated, it remains an exhilaratingly reckless slice of psychedelia. Universal. 2006.

Includes liner notes by Charles Fox.

Crazy World Of Arthur Brown: Arthur Brown (vocals); Vincent Crane (keyboards); Drachen Theaker (drums).

Reissue producer: Ed Strait.