As the 1960s progressed, almost every musical genre was affected by thepsychedelic boom - and folk was no exception. Artists such as Bert Jansch,Davy Graham and Donovan had introduced elements of world music into theirrepertoires by 1965, and in 1966 the Incredible String Band's debut kickedthe door wide open for a generation of young musicians to follow. Forest,whose two Harvest albums have long elated listeners and eluded collectors,featured prominently among them, and have become synonymous with so-called'acid folk', inspiring - alongside Vashti Bunyan, COB and a handful ofothers - the current wave of successful underground folk acts.Originally called The Foresters Of Walesby the band abreviated their name toForest and were fortunate enough to meet John Peel at alocal gig and he encouraged them to play in London. After a triumphant gig inNotting Hill's All Saints Hall at Christmastime 1968, Forest were offered amanagement deal with Blackhill Enterprises, home to amongst others, Pink Floydand Roy Harper. It wasn't long before offers of record contracts came their way andthe band eventually signed to EMI's nascent Harvest label.This, their debut album was recorded at Abbey Road early in 1969 and featuredcompletely original material, with their strangely-sculptured melodies and partiallyimprovised accompaniment. The playing is often inspired and the album's recordingquality excellent. Highly recommended.* Mastered at Abbey Road by Nick Webb from the original analogue tapes* Featuring full participation from founding band member Martin Welham* Complete with fully annotated and illustrated 8 page booklet* Featured and advertised in Record Collector, April 2005Track Listing1. Bad Penny2. A Glade Somewhere3. Lovemaker's Ways4. While You're Gone5. Sylvie (We'd Better Not Pretend)6. A Fantasy You7. Fading Light8. Do You Want Some Smoke?9. Don't Want To Go10. Nothing Else Will Matter11. Mirror Of Life12. Rain Is On My Balcony
