Keith Christmas - Stimulus (1969) (2012)

Keith’s first album was reissued on CD in a limited amount on a small English label. First two tracks still are somewhat times-typical lightweight pop. The guitar instrumental “Roundabout” shows that Keith masters a certain guitar creativity. A song like “Ice Man” shows that he has even more in his pocket. It has a great performance and a convincing guitar and arrangements.

At those days Keith was one of the persons to stimulate the beautiful voice and s/sw-folksinger Shelagh McDonald (with ‘Stargazer’ from 1971 as her future highlight). She even sketched a portrait of Keith which appeared on the LP. Both artists appeared along with Synasthesia (another great acid folkrock band which album luckily also found reissues), on a compilation called ‘49 Greek Street’. The following track, “I know you can’t loose” has in fact a nicer version by Shelagh McDonald on her d?but album.

Last tracks “Metropolis” and “Trial and Judgement” might still be influenced by American folk and songwriters. The album shows potentional, but does not show his best side yet.