Octopus [Limited Edition] by Gentle Giant (CD, 1972)

4988005857781

21050164858

Gentle Giant

CD

1972

Art Rock

Octopus [Limited Edition]

Rock

Along with THREE FRIENDS, OCTOPUS is a fine example of Gentle Giant 's early-1970s heyday, which featured the oft-underrated British progressive-rock ensemble deftly balancing complex arrangements with catchy melodies and intriguing multi-part vocal harmonies. While the frenetic instrumental "The Boys in the Band" showcases the group's tight-knit musicianship, "Knots" finds the Schulman brothers (Derek, Phil, and Ray) and company venturing into Queen-like a cappella moments, albeit with an even quirkier approach. For listeners wanting to sample Gentle Giant's considerable '70s catalogue, OCTOPUS warrants an extended visit.

1

Q (5/97, p.138) - 4 Stars (out of 5) - "...OCTOPUS is from the band's full-blooded 'prog' heyday...be assured that there was no-one like them..." Mojo (Publisher) (3/01, p.59) - "...Conceived as eight pieces, each reflecting the character of a member of the band....an early Giant piece could hurtle from jazz-rock to medieval madrigal, via an a cappella section, a recorder duet and a vibraphone solo....dexterously performed and likely to baffle as enthuse an audience..."