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Codex (Paperback)
Tony Caravan
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R333
Discovery Miles 3 330
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Ships in 10 - 17 working days
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THIS ANTHOLOGY contains a series of semi-autobiographical works
that were stored away in boxes for years: the short stories were
intended to be turned into film or television screenplays (or
scenes therein); the songs just never got around to be recorded;
and, the essays were to be the foundations for books, weblogs
and/or talk radio. This is an incredible journey into the mind and
adventures of one of the most under-the-radar legendary figures in
modern pop culture.
Contrasting the clever spoonerism from which Cunning Stunts derives
its name, Caravan are heard on what is arguably their most
uninspired material to date. The effort is certainly far from a
total loss, but nowhere nearly as creative as their former studio
effort For Girls Who Grow Plump in the Night (1973) -- the likes of
which sadly would not be equalled. Instead of commencing the affair
with the aggression and spirit that informed previous LPs -- such
as "Memory Lain, Hugh" or "Waterloo Lilly" -- which had christened
their earlier albums, "The Show of Our Lives" comes off
comparatively heavy and practically dirge-like. Caravan's trademark
instrumental agility while perhaps temporarily mired, is not lost
on Pye Hastings' uptempo rocker "Stuck in a Hole." Heavy-handed,
superfluous orchestration -- possibly a residual effect of their
New Symphonia project from late 1973 -- mars "No Backstage Pass"
and the 18-minute "Dabsong Conshirtoe." There are a few trademark
and at times edgier passages, especially during the "Ben Karratt
Rides Again" movement of the epic "Conshirtoe." Still, the
orchestration is too slick sounding, as if it were teetering on the
aural wallpaper that is (gasp!) Muzak. Caravan enthusiasts intent
on including Cunning Stunts in their collections should be aware
that the 2001 CD reissue contains a few choice supplementary
selections. Chief among these is an unissued take of "Keeping Back
My Love" -- which would ultimately be reworked three years later on
Better by Far (1977). Here the band definitely display signs and
sounds of the Caravan of old. For that cut alone, the renovated
offering can be sufficiently recommended. The other significant
bonus track is a live "For Richard" recorded at Fairfield Hall in
Croydon, England. Originally, it was included on the 1976
Canterbury Tales best-of, but makes its digital debut here. ~
Lindsay Planer
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