Rediscovering the Underrated Procol Harum

If you’re looking for a music artist to inspire your next musical adventure, why not give Procol Harum a try? Although their classic '60s/'70s sound is often overlooked in favor of more modern acts, an appreciation of the artistry that created this group's signature style shouldn't be ignored. Procol Harum has proved both critics and fans wrong with its persistent success and passionate fan base for nearly five decades now: they may lean on the side of nostalgia, but their dedication to creating timeless melodies that resonates within listeners should be noted. For those willing to explore what Procol Harum have offered throughout their career, there’s much to appreciate beyond just some retro-sounding tunes.

When we talk about influential rock bands from the 60s and 70s, names like The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, and Led Zeppelin instantly come to mind. While these bands are undoubtedly iconic, they tend to overshadow other important musical acts from the same era, such as Procol Harum. This English progressive rock band may not have been as popular as its peers, but its music was no less brilliant. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of Procol Harum and discover why their music is still worth listening to over 50 years after they first hit the scene.

Formed in 1967, Procol Harum made a name for itself with its unique and sophisticated sound that was ahead of its time. Though their music was mainly labeled as progressive rock, it blended together elements of classical, blues, and psychedelic rock, which made it hard to categorize. Their signature song A Whiter Shade of Pale became an instant hit and remains one of the most beloved songs of all time. Still, the band's discography goes beyond this one timeless classic.

What set Procol Harum apart was their ability to weave stories into their songs and craft vivid soundscapes that evoked a range of emotions. Take the song Repent Walpurgis, which was inspired by Johann Sebastian Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, and is a showcase of Procol Harum's musical prowess. It's a thrilling and exhilarating piece that encapsulates the essence of the group's ability to capture the listener's imagination.

Procol Harum's music also dealt with socially relevant themes, from war and politics to love and loss. Their 1970 album Home tackled the dark side of the Vietnam War and disillusionment with authority figures, while A Salty Dog from the same year explores life at sea. With each album, Procol Harum challenged the listener to think deeper and appreciate the complexity of the world around them.

Despite their undeniable talent and the fervent love of fans, Procol Harum never received the same level of mainstream success as other bands from their era. But that hasn't stopped them from remaining active and continuing to make music that is both relevant and timeless. Their latest album, Novum, released in 2017, features new songs that still showcases the band's signature sound and artistry.

Procol Harum may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of classic rock bands, but they are certainly one worth rediscovering. Their timeless sound encapsulates the best of the era, with the sophistication and inventiveness that makes their music stand out, even today. From thought-provoking lyrics to masterful instrumentation, Procol Harum's oeuvre is a testament to the artistry of one of the most underrated bands of their time. So take some time to explore their discography - you won't be disappointed. After all, as they say in A Whiter Shade of Pale: We skipped the light fandango, turned cartwheels 'cross the floor. I was feeling kind of seasick, but the crowd called out for more.