Artist: Edgar Broughton Band Album: In Side Out

Year: 1972
Duration: 0:0-1

Edgar Broughton Band’s In Side Out: A Critical Review of a Classic Album

Edgar Broughton Band is a name that evokes memories of the psychedelic era of music, a time when rock was evolving into heavier sounds with deeper lyrics. One of the band’s most famous albums is In Side Out, and this critical review will delve deeper into its history, style, and creativity. We will explore the best songs, dissect the music genre, and provide a frank critique of the album, which could be seen as one of the foundations of the heavy rock and punk movements. So whether you are an old fan revisiting your nostalgia or a new listener discovering the band, join us as we explore the iconic music of the Edgar Broughton Band.

The roots of Edgar Broughton Band lie in the beatnik and literary scenes of Warwickshire, England, in the late '60s. Founded by Edgar Broughton, his brother Steve, and two other musicians, the band quickly found its unique style, blending blues rock with psychedelic elements, and social commentary with a hard edge. In Side Out was released in 1972, and it showcased the band’s raw energy, unconventional lyricism, and inventive instrumentation. The album was produced without the help of a record label, and it was initially seen as a high-risk venture, but it went on to become a cult classic, thanks to its fan base and critical acclaim.

The music genre of In Side Out is hard to pin down, as it draws from various influences and styles. However, it can be described as a mix of heavy rock, folk, and proto-punk. The songs are characterized by their raw, unpolished sound, and their unconventional structure and lyrics. The common themes in the album are rebellion, freedom, and anti-establishment sentiments, which were prominent in the countercultural movements of the time. The band’s music was inspired by the events of the late sixties, including Vietnam War protests, the hippie movement, and the general disillusionment with authority figures.

The best songs of the album are arguably American Boy Soldier, Momma's Reward, and Hotel Room. American Boy Soldier is a biting commentary on the Vietnam War, with its haunting melody and intense lyrics. Momma's Reward is a fiery protest song against unjust social norms, while Hotel Room is a surrealistic journey into the mind of a restless traveler. Each song on the album is unique, with its particular style, lyrics, and instrumental nuances. The album’s flow is seamless, and it keeps the listener engaged throughout, with its fusion of hard rock rhythms and poetic storytelling.

The most innovative parts of the album are its use of spoken word, experimental soundscapes, and unconventional arrangements. The spoken word sections in songs like Don't Even Know Which Day It Is and Why Can't Somebody Love Me? are reminiscent of poetry readings, and they add a distinctive flavor to the album. The experimental sounds and soundscapes in songs like It's Not You and Homes Fit for Heroes create an otherworldly atmosphere, and they showcase the band's willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of conventional music.

In terms of criticism, some may say that the album is too rough around the edges, and that its unconventional style may not be everyone's cup of tea. The album production is also basic, but that adds to its charm, as it captures the raw and live feel of the band. However, In Side Out remains an essential album that paved the way for the emergence of heavy rock and punk genres, and it represents a bold and adventurous era in music history.

In Side Out is an album that defies categorization and showcases the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the Edgar Broughton Band. Its eclectic mix of styles, its poetic lyrics, and its unconventional arrangements make it a classic album that stands the test of time. The best songs on the album are powerful statements against the injustices of the world, while its innovative parts reveal the band’s artistic experimentation. Although the album may not be for everyone, it remains a testament to the creativity and daringness that shaped the psychedelic and countercultural movements of the late sixties and early seventies. So, if you haven't listened to In Side Out yet, go ahead and give it a spin, and experience the raw intensity of the Edgar Broughton Band.

In Side Out is an album that defies categorization and showcases the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the Edgar Broughton Band. Its eclectic mix of styles, its poetic lyrics, and its unconventional arrangements make it a classic album that stands the test of time. The best songs on the album are powerful statements against the injustices of the world, while its innovative parts reveal the band’s artistic experimentation. Although the album may not be for everyone, it remains a testament to the creativity and daringness that shaped the psychedelic and countercultural movements of the late sixties and early seventies. So, if you haven't listened to In Side Out yet, go ahead and give it a spin, and experience the raw intensity of the Edgar Broughton Band.