The Walrus - Music With Big Fuckin' Teeth!

01/09/2008

Mayo Thompson's Troubadour Psychedelia

In 1969 Mayo Thompson released his first solo record, Corky's Debt To His Father. Departing from his avant-garde psychedelic band, Red Krayola, Thompson created a record that evokes the spirit of Alexander Skip Spence, but makes things a little more country than spacey. Keeping in mind Thompson's unconventional style of singing and his occasionally peculiar guitar tunings, this record probably will not make much sense to the listener on the first play. However, whatever attention you give this record will be repaid equally with an enchanting and totally unique listening experience.

The song "Horses" from the album is a particular favorite of mine. Skittish drums keep the canter of this song at gate-jumping pace, while Thompson's vocals gracefully post over his lyrical horse...or maybe that is his heartbeat. Another beaut is "Dear Betty Baby." Downbeat horns and lyrical musings fill this song with quiet poetry. This is Thompson as the romantic troubadour, the wandering minstrel, trawling the seas of love and story telling.

Over time this album has become a regular in my personal CD rotation. If you wanna add it to your collection, pick it up!