Gracious - Gracious (1970) (2004)

Another fine band from the early British Progressive Rock Movement (like FANTASY, RARE BIRD, CRESSIDA). After several personnel changes the final line-up became Alan Cowderoy (guitar), Paul Davis (vocals and 12-string guitar), Martin Kitcat (keyboards), Robert Lipson (drums) and Tim Wheatley (bass). A double-concert with KING CRIMSON turned out to be pivotal for the band's musical direction: Martin Kitcat was so impressed by KING CRIMSON's Mellotrons that he wanted to incorporate the Mellotron into the sound of GRACIOUS. In '70, GRACIOUS released their eponymous first album, a year later their second entitled "This is ... Gracious!". The end of the band came soon when they didn't get gigs and ran out of money. Both albums were released on one CD in '95.

On their debut album "Gracious!" the songs are alternating and adventurous but at some moments the music tends to become too structureless or too longwinding. Despite good ideas and a 'progressive mind' it's not really a memorable album. Their second album "This is ... Gracious" is another story, due to a stunning progress from the band and Martin Kitcat's frequent play on the mellotron, often in captivating interplay with the electric guitar. The songs are varied (blues, rock, classical, symphonic) and the climates are pleasant, it makes this album to highly acclaimed one!