Bodast - Spectral Nether Street (1968) [2000]

Much of this material has been around before in other packages, but this is the most comprehensive roundup of Bodast- and Bodast-related tracks likely to be done. Ten of the 16 songs comprise all of the masters recorded by Bodast for MGM in 1969. These have been previously reissued by Cherry Red and See for Miles, but the versions on these CDs are the original mixes by Keith West, whereas on other releases the mixes were done by Steve Howe in 1981. In addition, there are four previously unreleased 1968 songs by Canto, who were comprised of the trio of Steve Howe, Bobby Clarke, and Dave Curtiss, and evolved into Bodast around the time Clive Maldoon rejoined. And, finally, there are previously unreleased alternate takes of the Bodast cuts "Beyond Winter" and "Do You Remember." The music is a link between British flower-power psychedelia and progressive rock, full of intricate song structures and harmonies, yet also lacking the arresting melodies and direction of Howe's previous and subsequent bands (Tomorrow and early Yes), though it's closer to Tomorrow than Yes. It's more historically interesting than musically significant, but its historical value is considerably enhanced by Jon Newey's lengthy liner notes. The highlights remain the occasional times at which they recall early David Bowie, particularly "1,000 Years."