Gary Brooker, the co-composer and vocalist with Fisher, passed away just last year. Keith Reid, the lyricist passed away last month. RIP both. What a tremendous musical legacy from this team.
I'd no idea Keith had died. That's a tragic loss. He was the child of holocaust refugees who settled in Welwyn Garden City so kind of a local lad to me. And a totally unique talent.
@@hughwalker5628So many talents from the 70's that one by one are taken away from us, tragic as they will be replaced by AI crap, autotuning idiots that have no clue of what live music really is.... etc etc, I can go on and on.... so sad.
The "Grand Finale" section was written by organist Matthew Fisher, and borrows slightly (primarily from the first four bars) from the Minuet in J.A. Haydn's Piano Sonata No 26 in A major (1773).
This has always been one of the most breathtakingly beautiful pieces of music I've ever heard in my life. The band has performed it live many many times over the years and given this piece a legacy of amazing beauty and creativity that is unparalleled. It has always been one of the most meaningful pieces of music to me in my life and I never grow weary of hearing it. Very nice job on your reaction.
I'm only almost 63, but love this piece anyway ever since I heard it the first time in the beginning of the 80s. I originally discovered PH in the middlle of the 70s when Pandora's Box was played on the Radio Luxenburg and it drove me nuts for a long time as I for the life of me never could remember both the name of the band and the title of the song at the same time (but sometimes I forgot both). Wonderful group.
Count me in among the senior citizen fans! I was 14 when this came out, and Trower’s solo on the finale taught me the meaning of passion(!), as expressed through electric guitar. I’ve been chasing that ever since ❤
I'm proud to be one of the fans. Procol Harum has been the number one band for me for over 50 years. I was privileged to see them live a couple of times in the 70's and they are still among the best concerts I've ever seen.
I can honestly say if you don't know Procol Harums music,and you like this there's so much more out there,check them out.The first four.albums are the best place to start.Good luck if you do you won't regret it.
I forgot to mention that the live version with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra packs a bigger punch with the orch. & choir. Because they only had one run through before the performance, the band and orchestra don't end exactly at the same time. There live version of A Salty Dog is also worthy of your attention. Either with Edmonton or years later with the Danish Orchestra from 2006. Following the Edmonton recording, they used an orchestra again for the Grand Hotel album. Using an orchestra lost them some fans but made me love them even more. Both Grand Hotel and Fires (Which Burnt Brightly) are worth listening to as well.
As mentioned in at least one other thread, the song "Fires (Which Burnt Brightly)" from Procol Harum's album Grand Hotel is fantastic and gets better and better with multiple listening's as does the whole album (the title track and For Licorice John are the other stand out tracks IMHO). Fires features guest vocalist Christiane Legrand of The Swingle Singers fame and Keith Reid's lyrics are exceptionally poetic and poignant and sadly seem to reflect the way to world and humanity seems to be headed these days: Fires (Which Burnt Brightly) - Procol Harum "This war we are waging is already lost The cause for the fighting has long been a ghost Malice and habit have now won the day The honours we fought for are lost in the fray Standards and bugles are trod in the dust Wounds have burst open, and corridors rust Once proud and truthful, now humbled and bent Fires which burnt brightly, now energies spent Let down the curtain, and exit the play The crowds have gone home and the cast sailed away Our flowers and feathers as scarring as weapons Our poems and letters have turned to deceptions"
Agree! The scale serves the piece really well, and the drums and guitar are masterful and overwhelming in the big hall, tapping energy from the choir and orchestra to soar above them. An epic, breathtaking performance if played back on a system capable of delivering its power.
I listened to this over and over again - convinced it contained the wisdom I needed to navigate my teen years. I finally realized that yes, life WAS like a beanstalk. This was groundbreaking when it came out in 68. Even the Beatles had not constructed such a long and serious masterwork. There had been long jams, sure, but nothing like this. OK, so the sections do not flow together very well, but those sudden jolts are fun too. Great review!
I never listened to this piece all the way through. Absolutely brilliant. And Doug's exposition about the closing "hymn" - spot on and very enlightening.
Doug, be sure to check out Everything Matthew Fisher did after he left the band including Journeys End. That’s his voice on In the Autumn of my Madness. And on Salty Dog he’s singing on Boredom and Wreck of the Hesperus. 18:39
...........and, more importantly, on Pilgrims Progress. Where his gentle, contemplative voice almost becomes one with his beautiful organ lines (as well as with the lyrics).
The recitation on the first part of Glimpses of Nirvana is by Gary Brooker, the second part ("Held close by that which some dispies...") is recited by Keith Reid. The cembalo on Look to Your Soul is probably played by Matthew Fisher, since there is no organ. I think the piano quotes the Moonlight Sonanta by Beethoven between Gary's and Keith's recitations on Glimpses of Nirvana. At the start of Grand Finale it sounds as if both Gary and Matthew plays pianos, there is one in each channel.
Always said UP to 1969 there were two sides of Procol ,the well known with Gary ' s pianos parts and voice,the other one as rich was Matt ' s organ ,voice ,others too much underrated !! My fave Procol ( i came from classical piano).Scott- Irvin in his book shown many faces of this great band .4 virtuosos ,David doing a pretty good job.Matt Fisher too much underrated ,he did wrote much of it as uncredited Robin, here and there 2 pianos ( finale ) a grand and an upright ( Frankie ,Gary s wife ordered it ) Matt hasn' t heavy ego ,so he waited the 2000 years to ask for his royalties for organ part in "wsop" .he did played a B3 in that LP ,giving a near cinema theater sound to the Hammond .MHO.
Excellent! It's been a few years since I listened to this album, or to their other one, A Salty Dog. And I have to admit, listening to it in the context of your reaction allowed me to hear aspects of this song I hadn't noticed before, even though I've heard it so many times. Great stuff!
Thanks, Doug! I've loved Procol Harum for a long, long time, and it was good to see you dig into this one. The live version with the Edmonton Symphony is a gorgeous recording, and maybe a bit more coherent than the studio version, though both have many wonderful moments. The live version came after Robin Trower had left the band, but the guitar work is still quite good. One of the beautiful things about Procol Harum was that Keith Reid was considered a full member of the band, though his contribution was as lyricist instead of as a musician (much like Peter Sinfield in the original King Crimson). This was one of the qualities that set this band apart, along with that unique pianist/organist combo that was a signature of the band.
I am a little ashamed that I had never given the album version a listen. This is spectacular! I feel it is at least equal to the Live version in Edmonton!
Not sure if someone posted yet or not, but: (From Wikipedia): The title of the nearly side-long suite "In Held 'Twas in I" is an acrostic. It is formed by taking the first word of the lyrics in each of the first four movements as well as the first word of the sixth verse in the first movement: "In the darkness of the night..." From movement 1, "Glimpses of Nirvana" "Held close by that which some despise..." From the sixth verse of movement 1 "′Twas tea-time at the circus..." From movement 2, "′Twas Teatime at the Circus" "In the autumn of my madness..." From movement 3, "In the Autumn of My Madness" "I know if I'd been wiser..." From movement 4, "Look to Your Soul"
I'm so happy to see someone else react to and appreciate this masterpiece! As a child prodigy pianist (a long time ago!) I was stunned in 1969 to hear them work effortlessly from minor to major chords, literally all over the place as you noticed and it was all magnificent! Even the Rachmaninov opening on the last hymn blended in seamlessly. Gary Brooker was as much a musical genius as any classical composer. Thank you so much for your knowledgeable videos!
If you want to know what Procol Harum were really capable of, then listen to the album Grand Hotel, and in particular the track, Fires (which burnt brightly) that has a gorgeous female chorus and a (La-La) solo by French soprano Christiane Legrand, who was the lead singer with the Swingle Singers.
Absolutely! The whole album is fantastic and my three favorite tracks are Grand Hotel, For Liquorice John, and Fires (Which Burn Brightly)! All amazing but the lyrics in Fires are the most deep, poignant, and exceptional IMHO! 🥰
When I first heard this in 1969, I was a freshman in college and was experiencing what later was diagnosed as “major depression” and this song seemed to encapsulate my feelings at that time.
Thank you for reviewing this masterpiece. I was 16 years old when my father gave me the Shine on Brightly album and it changed my life (I’m 49 now) “In Held ‘Twas in I” has influenced every song I’ve ever written to this day. This was an excellent review of the song I really enjoyed your analysis and will definitely tune in for more.
I was obsessed with this song back in the day, and have heard all the versions of it. My favorite is the live one with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. The Finale is very intense and the guitar solo comes in loud and clear for a tremendous finish! I hope you had time to listen to it. I enjoyed your commentary.
When I think of Procol Harum it’s always Whiter Shade of Pale. This amazing piece is driving me to dig deeper into their repertoire! Thanks so much to everyone that requested this and to Dr. Doug for this review. I really enjoyed this one! Someone mentioned their concert with the Danish Orchestra 2006 on here. That’s a great concert I’ve seen on RUclips worth checking out.
GET THE EDMONTON LIVE VERSION!! Doug, you will be enthralled by the integration of the orchestra and choir! Robin Trower had left the band, but the guitarist that replaced him is amazing. One of the best live pieces ever recorded, and Grand Finale will reduce you to tears… 😢
If you miss the question, you miss the point of the story. "Life is like a beanstalk. Isn't it?" First time hearing the original. Edmonton Symphony Orchestra version, hands down.
I always interpreted the Dalai Llama's message as saying there isnt really a meaning to life, you simply grow like a beanstalk. Furthermore a beanstalk does not ponder such things but simply grows without concern. Once you start concerning yourself with such things you are no longer in the present
Hi Doug, really enjoying your reactions and break downs of the stuff your putting out. Have you listened to any of The Sensational Alex Harvey bands stuff? Faith Healer, Next, are a couple of tracks you might be interested in.
I've been waiting for this one. It's perfect for you. Very arguably the first "prog epic", released way back in 1968. The only other contender for that distinction is "The Fool" by Quicksilver Messenger Service, also released in 1968. Both are still on my playlist, and in my vinyl record collection, over half a centurty later. "The lesson lies in learning, and by teaching I'll be taught...." Keep teaching us about the finer points of music, and keep learner for yourself.
I often start the day with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra recording of this song. It makes a very good start to the day. I hear so much Bach-influenced themes in this piece (also in A Whiter Shade of Pale).
Hi Doug, excellent video as always, I just wanted to recommend you a song for your next video that seems ti me you haven't heard yet. It's April by deep purple and it's an under-appreciated piece but magnificent in every possible way.
Thanks for introducing me to this song! The only Procol Harum song I'd known before today was Whiter Shade of Pale. I learnt it when I used to take Piano lessons, although it would have sounded better on Hammond Organ. The "circus" part of IHTII reminds me of the Beatles (E.g. For the Benefit of Mr Kite) but also the band Madness. I'm sure Procol Harum and the Beatles influenced them. I haven't found an in-depth analysis of "House of Fun." maybe Doug can do a reaction?
This song (I see the title in Judeo-Christian theological referencing as "In Hell It Was In I") has been rooted in me since the 1960's. I have long wanted to witness a sympathetic composer's reaction to it. Doug, you are that man, with your emotional and music theory exclamations. I'm sure the originating Procul Harum are saying, "Bingo! Thank you, Doug." Watching your reaction was a great thrill for me. Thank you.
My first exposure to this epic was from Transatlantic, which does pay great homage. I knew they were covering PH, but I had never heard this original version until today. Such good stuff! To me, that final “hymn” as you call it, Doug, reminds me of “God Save the Queen/King, My Country ‘Tis of Thee”. Thanks for sharing Doug!
That's a really Cool piece. I'll Listen to it again sometime on a Sunday morning I know Salty Dog, Conquistador and Whiter Shade of Pale by Procal Harum. Always loved their sound, the mix of guitar, organ and Gary Brookers vocals Amazing Stuff..Plus I'm a huge fan of Robin Trowers solo output
"Homburg" was the second single, and it was hard to follow up Whiter Shade without comparisons being made (it only reached No. 6 in the UK charts). Critics said it was too much like Whiter Shade, but for me it was a great record that stood on its own, and has its own baroque vibe with surreal Reidian lyrics.
i would say the Edmonton live version is considered the definitive one to listen to.... but the studio version is a very close 2nd. It is so uplifting...Has had a dramatic effect on my life. I really feel you understood and got the whole point and meaning of this beautiful piece of music. Really well done analysis. You'll love the live version as well.
I was interested in hearing the studio version of this, as well as a composer's reaction, since I had only heard the live version with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, which I LOVE. But since I had heard that live version so much, I was prepared to be disappointed and I was. The version with the Edmonton Symphony is much fuller and much more powerful. If you haven't already, you should listen to it. I think you'll be impressed. In my opinion, the studio version pales in comparison. I read on another comment that Gary Brooker, Keith Reid, and Matthew Fisher have all died recently. That is a terrible shame. Brooker's vocals and piano and Fisher's organ are wonderful and Reid's lyrics are some of the most vibrant and interesting in all of rock music. As often happens, these guys, and Procol Harum as a whole, as successful as they were, were really under appreciated. They were an amazing band that brought some truly unique slant on rock music.
All these years I've enjoyed the live take from Edmonton and never took the trouble to listen to the studio version. It's good to hear it along with Doug. :-)
Here's Procol live in 1972 doing the last 12 minutes or so, without orchestra, beginning at the 23 minute mark of the clip - at this point, Matthew Fisher, Robin Trower, and Dave Knights had left the band (replaced by Chris Copping, Dave Ball, and Alan Cartwright, respectively). The performance of this portion of "In Held" as a 5-piece is stunning, and Brooker's vocal control and range, especially in "Look to your Soul" (which he had to nail every night throughout a grueling tour schedule) are on full display, showcasing his expression and power as a vocalist. Very nice audio capturing them at the height of their game just before "Live with the ESO' and "Grand Hotel". ruclips.net/video/NKBvmTyFCa4/видео.html
Finally! :) :: Edit: And just imagine I caught this less than 2 hours after it was posted. :) Procol Harum and Sam Clayton Band sorta made me realize at a relatively early age that I liked music, not songs. The earliest "awakening memory" I have is the sound of the Hammond organ which made its presence known here as well.
I was around for this but this is another band that I never did a deep dive into so haven't heard this one before. I, too, was struck by the spoken word parts being much like some Moody Blues. The vocals in another part reminded me of the Strawbs--and others of Van der Graaf Generator and some groups/styles I can't quite put my finger on to name. Anyway, I'm sure all these bands listened to each other.
You REALLY need to check the British band UFO formed in 1968. Start with their song "Rock Bottom" which was released in '74 after the brought in 17 y.o. German guitarist, Michael Schenker, the younger brother of Scorpians guitarist, Rudolf Schenker. With the addition of Michael the dynamics changed drastically & their popularity skyrocketed. It's from this point where they've influenced such groups & musicians like Slash, Iron Maiden & Metallica. There are a couple live performances available. Live or studio doesn't matter. The song will blow you away. Other great songs to follow up with are "Doctor, Doctor", "Too Hot to Handle", "Lights Out", "You Can Rock Me", "Love to Love", & "Too Much of Nothing" just to name a few
I was interested which version would you select. Studio one is tight and solid. Live with Edmonton Orchestra is fuller. Both are fantastic pieces of music. Thanks.
Quite agree. The live version was superior in all respects because It was live and played as a one off with a full orchestra and choir. It is a masterpiece with a strong sense of presence
Forgot to mention that the Grand Finale sounding familiar is no surprise, since it begins very similarly to Haydn’s Menuetto al Rovescio. They used the Grand Finale also alone in several situations, since it can be pretty much a separate thing from the preceding music
Great analysis! This often unpredictable shift to different, non obvious, keys, major and minor, is really typical of Procol music. Something that might shed some light on how this masterpiece was composed is the notion that most of the music was composed by Gary Brooker and Matthew Fisher as SEPARATE pieces, the idea of sticking them together, also adding connecting and returning bits, came after a while. Also, it’s interesting to note that there are in fact three vocalists on the studio version: the usual Gary Brooker, organist Matthew Fisher for Autumn of my Madness (who also played piano and rhythm guitar on that section) and lyricist Keith Reid himself, who speaks the words for the “held close” section. The Edmonton version is pretty good and not too different, they had to arrange a few things differently of course, both to use more the orchestra and to allow for the transition, also Brooker does all the singing, since Fisher was no longer in the band. Guitarist Dave Ball is no Robin Trower but managed. I also recommend the 1997 redhill reunion version, the only good recording with Mick Grabham on guitar and especially magic when Matthew Fisher takes on the rhythm guitar and sings Autumn of my Madness for the first time in almost 20 years. Also Douglas Adams (!!!) does the Keith Reid spoken part. They began to do it again while touring in the 2010s, in fact I’ve heart it live three times in 2013 with orchestra
Dear Doug. May i challenge you with a quite strange music suggestion? The piece i was thinking about is :Zoviet*France: Something Spooked The Horses (from the album The Decriminalisation Of Country Music)
I just saw your review of this. I spent months listening to just this song in high school. I pity young people who do not have music like this to listen to as they grow. Unfortunately, they had to finish it as it had to fit on the record.
This album tears into the psyche and ego which was a big part of the 1960's. It gently eviscerates religion and other social dogmas leaving the character in the song exposed, raw, lost and alone, facing madness with nothing to stand on, leaving it to the listener to find their own answers not by following other's dogmas but in your own soul. Under a strong dose of LSD, it blows your mind and the realities we cling to shattered like a rock through a stained glass window.exhorting us to not be afraid but look through the shattered colors to see reality within and without. Peace please.
Imagine this Masterpiece from 1968 being recorded today.The choir heard was a School Choir:PH has never been blessed with good producers and the Manager ran with all the Money.A brutally beautifull Suite done by a criminally underrated Band.I have heart PH live 8 times(Denmark).Also with The Danish Nationel Symphony Orchestra.They are Gooood!Please react to "A Salty Dog"(Studio version).I will wait for it,because you are very good too.
So glad you finally got to this early prog suite masterpiece: others from '68 would include 'Ars Longa Vita Brevis' (The Nice), A Saucerful Of Secrets' Pink Floyd (similar choral resolution t this one), and Side 3 of of Electric Ladyland- the 'Rainy Day/Mermaid' suite one might call it...? Then there's the whole of 'SF Sorrow' by The Pretty Things, truly the first concept album..? Townshend thought so and it inspired him to write 'Tommy', which might not unjustly be up for consideration. These videos are like the music course I was hoping to get when I was a young hopeful, sadly English academia just wasn't up it, then or probably even now...
The coda struck me as a great wedding march with a little psychedelia tossed in for good luck. And is it just me, or does Brooker remind you of David Bowie singing in his higher registers?
I can really recommend the song "No Borders" by "Ruskaja". Its very good music with a good message. Its rather unpopular european ( i think austrian) group, bit very cool. Got elements of Rock, Metal ans Ska. Very interesting, Special and cool.
The chord progressions on these songs are a bit different than the Moody Blues songs on 'Days of Future Pass' to my ears. More common practice diatonic progressions, exploring parallel minor/major, sequence, and secondary dominant/diminished chords. I really like the way they take melodic motives and adapt them to different progressions. They get lots of musical mileage out of 1-2 melodic ideas. This a very impressive effort.
Procol Harum is supposed to mean BEYOND THESE THINGS in Latin, but that would be Prucul Harem... close enough. Check out the various FAN MADE videos that accompany images to the entire epic. There used to be 4 of them, all very good
![Procol Harum - In Held 'Twas In I [Live With The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/5rtMI4_r4jM/mqdefault.jpg)
The entire album, Shine On Brightly, and their follow-up album, A Salty Dog, are masterpieces.
Gary Brooker, the co-composer and vocalist with Fisher, passed away just last year. Keith Reid, the lyricist passed away last month. RIP both. What a tremendous musical legacy from this team.
I wonder if Mike Oldfield ever heard this?
I'd no idea Keith had died. That's a tragic loss. He was the child of holocaust refugees who settled in Welwyn Garden City so kind of a local lad to me. And a totally unique talent.
@@hughwalker5628So many talents from the 70's that one by one are taken away from us, tragic as they will be replaced by AI crap, autotuning idiots that have no clue of what live music really is.... etc etc, I can go on and on.... so sad.
I did not either know that Keith Reid is no longer with us, I miss him...
RIP and thank you for the music ❤
The "Grand Finale" section was written by organist Matthew Fisher, and borrows slightly (primarily from the first four bars) from the Minuet in J.A. Haydn's Piano Sonata No 26 in A major (1773).
This has always been one of the most breathtakingly beautiful pieces of music I've ever heard in my life. The band has performed it live many many times over the years and given this piece a legacy of amazing beauty and creativity that is unparalleled. It has always been one of the most meaningful pieces of music to me in my life and I never grow weary of hearing it. Very nice job on your reaction.
There are many Procol Harum fans, 65 years old & beyond, that really appreciate this one, and I would count myself among them.
I'm only almost 63, but love this piece anyway ever since I heard it the first time in the beginning of the 80s.
I originally discovered PH in the middlle of the 70s when Pandora's Box was played on the Radio Luxenburg and it drove me nuts for a long time as I for the life of me never could remember both the name of the band and the title of the song at the same time (but sometimes I forgot both). Wonderful group.
Count me in among the senior citizen fans! I was 14 when this came out, and Trower’s solo on the finale taught me the meaning of passion(!), as expressed through electric guitar. I’ve been chasing that ever since ❤
I'm only 62, and I resemble that remark. :-)
I'm proud to be one of the fans. Procol Harum has been the number one band for me for over 50 years. I was privileged to see them live a couple of times in the 70's and they are still among the best concerts I've ever seen.
"Held close by..." spoken by lyricist Keith Reid. "In the autumn of my madness..." sung by organist Matthew Fisher.
This is amazing, I have to thank every single person that requested this for introducing me to it.
I can honestly say if you don't know Procol Harums music,and you like this there's so much more out there,check them out.The first four.albums are the best place to start.Good luck if you do you won't regret it.
+1
I forgot to mention that the live version with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra packs a bigger punch with the orch. & choir. Because they only had one run through before the performance, the band and orchestra don't end exactly at the same time. There live version of A Salty Dog is also worthy of your attention. Either with Edmonton or years later with the Danish Orchestra from 2006. Following the Edmonton recording, they used an orchestra again for the Grand Hotel album. Using an orchestra lost them some fans but made me love them even more. Both Grand Hotel and Fires (Which Burnt Brightly) are worth listening to as well.
As mentioned in at least one other thread, the song "Fires (Which Burnt Brightly)" from Procol Harum's album Grand Hotel is fantastic and gets better and better with multiple listening's as does the whole album (the title track and For Licorice John are the other stand out tracks IMHO). Fires features guest vocalist Christiane Legrand of The Swingle Singers fame and Keith Reid's lyrics are exceptionally poetic and poignant and sadly seem to reflect the way to world and humanity seems to be headed these days:
Fires (Which Burnt Brightly) - Procol Harum
"This war we are waging is already lost
The cause for the fighting has long been a ghost
Malice and habit have now won the day
The honours we fought for are lost in the fray
Standards and bugles are trod in the dust
Wounds have burst open, and corridors rust
Once proud and truthful, now humbled and bent
Fires which burnt brightly, now energies spent
Let down the curtain, and exit the play
The crowds have gone home and the cast sailed away
Our flowers and feathers as scarring as weapons
Our poems and letters have turned to deceptions"
A top 10 album of all time.
Brilliant.
A most underrated band
The most underrated band,for me the best ever.
The most important song of 1968
The live version with Edmonton symphony orchestra is also pretty epic, I actually prefer it to the original
Agreed . That orchestra and choir and the acoustics of the recording were superb.
Agree! The scale serves the piece really well, and the drums and guitar are masterful and overwhelming in the big hall, tapping energy from the choir and orchestra to soar above them. An epic, breathtaking performance if played back on a system capable of delivering its power.
This is for me as well.
Add me to the list ☺️ I think if Doug's looking for the soaring ending, he won't be disappointed.
I totally agree with you.
I listened to this over and over again - convinced it contained the wisdom I needed to navigate my teen years. I finally realized that yes, life WAS like a beanstalk.
This was groundbreaking when it came out in 68. Even the Beatles had not constructed such a long and serious masterwork. There had been long jams, sure, but nothing like this. OK, so the sections do not flow together very well, but those sudden jolts are fun too. Great review!
I never listened to this piece all the way through. Absolutely brilliant. And Doug's exposition about the closing "hymn" - spot on and very enlightening.
I became aware of Procol Harum when I was 14. Still love them and miss them.
Thanks for bringing this lost classic back to life. "Acrostic" - haven't heard that word in a long time.
Doug, be sure to check out Everything Matthew Fisher did after he left the band including Journeys End. That’s his voice on In the Autumn of my Madness. And on Salty Dog he’s singing on Boredom and Wreck of the Hesperus. 18:39
...........and, more importantly, on Pilgrims Progress. Where his gentle, contemplative voice almost becomes one with his beautiful organ lines (as well as with the lyrics).
Epic Robin Trower solo indeed. Look up "Whaling Stories" from the "Home" album for a possibly more achieved one, with more urgency too...
The recitation on the first part of Glimpses of Nirvana is by Gary Brooker, the second part ("Held close by that which some dispies...") is recited by Keith Reid. The cembalo on Look to Your Soul is probably played by Matthew Fisher, since there is no organ. I think the piano quotes the Moonlight Sonanta by Beethoven between Gary's and Keith's recitations on Glimpses of Nirvana. At the start of Grand Finale it sounds as if both Gary and Matthew plays pianos, there is one in each channel.
Always said UP to 1969 there were two sides of Procol ,the well known with Gary ' s pianos parts and voice,the other one as rich was Matt ' s organ ,voice ,others too much underrated !! My fave Procol ( i came from classical piano).Scott- Irvin in his book shown many faces of this great band .4 virtuosos ,David doing a pretty good job.Matt Fisher too much underrated ,he did wrote much of it as uncredited Robin, here and there 2 pianos ( finale ) a grand and an upright ( Frankie ,Gary s wife ordered it ) Matt hasn' t heavy ego ,so he waited the 2000 years to ask for his royalties for organ part in "wsop" .he did played a B3 in that LP ,giving a near cinema theater sound to the Hammond .MHO.
Excellent! It's been a few years since I listened to this album, or to their other one, A Salty Dog. And I have to admit, listening to it in the context of your reaction allowed me to hear aspects of this song I hadn't noticed before, even though I've heard it so many times. Great stuff!
Thanks, Doug! I've loved Procol Harum for a long, long time, and it was good to see you dig into this one. The live version with the Edmonton Symphony is a gorgeous recording, and maybe a bit more coherent than the studio version, though both have many wonderful moments. The live version came after Robin Trower had left the band, but the guitar work is still quite good. One of the beautiful things about Procol Harum was that Keith Reid was considered a full member of the band, though his contribution was as lyricist instead of as a musician (much like Peter Sinfield in the original King Crimson). This was one of the qualities that set this band apart, along with that unique pianist/organist combo that was a signature of the band.
I am a little ashamed that I had never given the album version a listen. This is spectacular! I feel it is at least equal to the Live version in Edmonton!
Finally Doug!!!, thanks to you and we wait for the live version in Edmonton. It will be epic.
Not sure if someone posted yet or not, but:
(From Wikipedia):
The title of the nearly side-long suite "In Held 'Twas in I" is an acrostic. It is formed by taking the first word of the lyrics in each of the first four movements as well as the first word of the sixth verse in the first movement:
"In the darkness of the night..." From movement 1, "Glimpses of Nirvana"
"Held close by that which some despise..." From the sixth verse of movement 1
"′Twas tea-time at the circus..." From movement 2, "′Twas Teatime at the Circus"
"In the autumn of my madness..." From movement 3, "In the Autumn of My Madness"
"I know if I'd been wiser..." From movement 4, "Look to Your Soul"
Bravo Doug!! An epic track. Welcome to the Procol Harum rabbit hole! Keep diving in you won’t be disappointed!
Best band ever.
I'm so happy to see someone else react to and appreciate this masterpiece! As a child prodigy pianist (a long time ago!) I was stunned in 1969 to hear them work effortlessly from minor to major chords, literally all over the place as you noticed and it was all magnificent! Even the Rachmaninov opening on the last hymn blended in seamlessly. Gary Brooker was as much a musical genius as any classical composer. Thank you so much for your knowledgeable videos!
The piano section is one of the most beautiful sections ever
I fully agree with you!
Damn, goosebumps at the beginning, tears at the end.
The live version with the Edmonton Orchestra has un much long and beautiful end !
Possibly the first prog epic - and still one of the best.
I've only ever heard Transatlantic's cover of this piece.
The grand finale hymn melody is reminiscent of the British national anthem
If you want to know what Procol Harum were really capable of, then listen to the album Grand Hotel, and in particular the track, Fires (which burnt brightly) that has a gorgeous female chorus and a (La-La) solo by French soprano Christiane Legrand, who was the lead singer with the Swingle Singers.
Yes!
Grand Hotel is quite possibly my favourite Harum album. 👍🏻
@@LyonThroy-RSA I go back and forth between That and “Exotic Birds and Fruit”
@@2LegsAPaulMcCartneyPodcast yes, also an excellent option
Absolutely! The whole album is fantastic and my three favorite tracks are Grand Hotel, For Liquorice John, and Fires (Which Burn Brightly)! All amazing but the lyrics in Fires are the most deep, poignant, and exceptional IMHO! 🥰
The version with Edmonton Symphony 'Live' 1972 is the best version. I've listened to this over and over since that time. Love it.
When I first heard this in 1969, I was a freshman in college and was experiencing what later was diagnosed as “major depression” and this song seemed to encapsulate my feelings at that time.
Thank you for reviewing this masterpiece. I was 16 years old when my father gave me the Shine on Brightly album and it changed my life (I’m 49 now) “In Held ‘Twas in I” has influenced every song I’ve ever written to this day. This was an excellent review of the song I really enjoyed your analysis and will definitely tune in for more.
I haven't heard this in ages but as we rolled into it I remembered hearing it on the radio. Well done!
I was obsessed with this song back in the day, and have heard all the versions of it. My favorite is the live one with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. The Finale is very intense and the guitar solo comes in loud and clear for a tremendous finish! I hope you had time to listen to it. I enjoyed your commentary.
Little. Suppers ready. Spots. Love this 😀 ❤️ thanks Doug.
When I think of Procol Harum it’s always Whiter Shade of Pale. This amazing piece is driving me to dig deeper into their repertoire! Thanks so much to everyone that requested this and to Dr. Doug for this review. I really enjoyed this one! Someone mentioned their concert with the Danish Orchestra 2006 on here. That’s a great concert I’ve seen on RUclips worth checking out.
GET THE EDMONTON LIVE VERSION!! Doug, you will be enthralled by the integration of the orchestra and choir! Robin Trower had left the band, but the guitarist that replaced him is amazing. One of the best live pieces ever recorded, and Grand Finale will reduce you to tears… 😢
Gary Brooker did all the orchestral arrangements himself throughout his career. A hugely talented man!
The guitarist who replaced Robin Trower in Procol Harum was Dave Ball. He passed away, in the last decade.
So true. Great music.
So the song title was the first example of a mashup in contemporary music 😎
If you miss the question, you miss the point of the story. "Life is like a beanstalk. Isn't it?"
First time hearing the original. Edmonton Symphony Orchestra version, hands down.
I always interpreted the Dalai Llama's message as saying there isnt really a meaning to life, you simply grow like a beanstalk. Furthermore a beanstalk does not ponder such things but simply grows without concern. Once you start concerning yourself with such things you are no longer in the present
Hi Doug, really enjoying your reactions and break downs of the stuff your putting out.
Have you listened to any of The Sensational Alex Harvey bands stuff? Faith Healer, Next, are a couple of tracks you might be interested in.
Yes!!! Gonna love hearing the reaction on this one. Procols big masterpiece!
The working title for this suite, while it was still developing, was actually Magnum Harum. Pity they changed it before recording!
Excellent! I have not heard this before either.
And don’t overlook Matthew’s masterpiece “Repent Walpurgis” from their first album.
I've been waiting for this one. It's perfect for you. Very arguably the first "prog epic", released way back in 1968. The only other contender for that distinction is "The Fool" by Quicksilver Messenger Service, also released in 1968. Both are still on my playlist, and in my vinyl record collection, over half a centurty later. "The lesson lies in learning, and by teaching I'll be taught...." Keep teaching us about the finer points of music, and keep learner for yourself.
I often start the day with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra recording of this song. It makes a very good start to the day. I hear so much Bach-influenced themes in this piece (also in A Whiter Shade of Pale).
Hi Doug, excellent video as always, I just wanted to recommend you a song for your next video that seems ti me you haven't heard yet. It's April by deep purple and it's an under-appreciated piece but magnificent in every possible way.
Thanks for introducing me to this song! The only Procol Harum song I'd known before today was Whiter Shade of Pale. I learnt it when I used to take Piano lessons, although it would have sounded better on Hammond Organ.
The "circus" part of IHTII reminds me of the Beatles (E.g. For the Benefit of Mr Kite) but also the band Madness. I'm sure Procol Harum and the Beatles influenced them. I haven't found an in-depth analysis of "House of Fun." maybe Doug can do a reaction?
This song (I see the title in Judeo-Christian theological referencing as "In Hell It Was In I") has been rooted in me since the 1960's. I have long wanted to witness a sympathetic composer's reaction to it. Doug, you are that man, with your emotional and music theory exclamations. I'm sure the originating Procul Harum are saying, "Bingo! Thank you, Doug."
Watching your reaction was a great thrill for me. Thank you.
My first exposure to this epic was from Transatlantic, which does pay great homage. I knew they were covering PH, but I had never heard this original version until today. Such good stuff! To me, that final “hymn” as you call it, Doug, reminds me of “God Save the Queen/King, My Country ‘Tis of Thee”. Thanks for sharing Doug!
That's a really Cool piece. I'll Listen to it again sometime on a Sunday morning I know Salty Dog, Conquistador and Whiter Shade of Pale by Procal Harum. Always loved their sound, the mix of guitar, organ and Gary Brookers vocals Amazing Stuff..Plus I'm a huge fan of Robin Trowers solo output
"Homburg" was the second single, and it was hard to follow up Whiter Shade without comparisons being made (it only reached No. 6 in the UK charts). Critics said it was too much like Whiter Shade, but for me it was a great record that stood on its own, and has its own baroque vibe with surreal Reidian lyrics.
The live version from Edmonton is just so much more epic. Soaring and beautiful. Give it a listen.
Procol have some really beautiful pieces and lots of interesting key change sort of stuff. This almost reminds me of "what is is what" by Morgan.
i would say the Edmonton live version is considered the definitive one to listen to.... but the studio version is a very close 2nd. It is so uplifting...Has had a dramatic effect on my life. I really feel you understood and got the whole point and meaning of this beautiful piece of music. Really well done analysis. You'll love the live version as well.
I was interested in hearing the studio version of this, as well as a composer's reaction, since I had only heard the live version with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, which I LOVE. But since I had heard that live version so much, I was prepared to be disappointed and I was. The version with the Edmonton Symphony is much fuller and much more powerful. If you haven't already, you should listen to it. I think you'll be impressed. In my opinion, the studio version pales in comparison.
I read on another comment that Gary Brooker, Keith Reid, and Matthew Fisher have all died recently. That is a terrible shame. Brooker's vocals and piano and Fisher's organ are wonderful and Reid's lyrics are some of the most vibrant and interesting in all of rock music. As often happens, these guys, and Procol Harum as a whole, as successful as they were, were really under appreciated. They were an amazing band that brought some truly unique slant on rock music.
All these years I've enjoyed the live take from Edmonton and never took the trouble to listen to the studio version. It's good to hear it along with Doug. :-)
amazing pre-Genesis stuff...
Yea! Suppers Ready comes to mind!😄
I saw them play this at the Hollywood Bowl with the LA Philharmonic along with choir and lyricist Keith Reid read the opening poem segments…
A friend of mine whose sister was a Nun said the grand finale sounded like they were marching up to heaven.
Here's Procol live in 1972 doing the last 12 minutes or so, without orchestra, beginning at the 23 minute mark of the clip - at this point, Matthew Fisher, Robin Trower, and Dave Knights had left the band (replaced by Chris Copping, Dave Ball, and Alan Cartwright, respectively). The performance of this portion of "In Held" as a 5-piece is stunning, and Brooker's vocal control and range, especially in "Look to your Soul" (which he had to nail every night throughout a grueling tour schedule) are on full display, showcasing his expression and power as a vocalist. Very nice audio capturing them at the height of their game just before "Live with the ESO' and "Grand Hotel". ruclips.net/video/NKBvmTyFCa4/видео.html
Finally! :)
:: Edit: And just imagine I caught this less than 2 hours after it was posted. :)
Procol Harum and Sam Clayton Band sorta made me realize at a relatively early age that I liked music, not songs. The earliest "awakening memory" I have is the sound of the Hammond organ which made its presence known here as well.
What an exciting piece of music after all these years....
I was around for this but this is another band that I never did a deep dive into so haven't heard this one before. I, too, was struck by the spoken word parts being much like some Moody Blues. The vocals in another part reminded me of the Strawbs--and others of Van der Graaf Generator and some groups/styles I can't quite put my finger on to name. Anyway, I'm sure all these bands listened to each other.
You REALLY need to check the British band UFO formed in 1968. Start with their song "Rock Bottom" which was released in '74 after the brought in 17 y.o. German guitarist, Michael Schenker, the younger brother of Scorpians guitarist, Rudolf Schenker. With the addition of Michael the dynamics changed drastically & their popularity skyrocketed. It's from this point where they've influenced such groups & musicians like Slash, Iron Maiden & Metallica. There are a couple live performances available. Live or studio doesn't matter. The song will blow you away. Other great songs to follow up with are "Doctor, Doctor", "Too Hot to Handle", "Lights Out", "You Can Rock Me", "Love to Love", & "Too Much of Nothing" just to name a few
Procol Harum is in the top 5 favorite bands of mine. Still get goosebumps. Thanks' Dave.
How about top one?! Wayyy beyond the Beatles.
I was interested which version would you select. Studio one is tight and solid. Live with Edmonton Orchestra is fuller. Both are fantastic pieces of music. Thanks.
55 years ago ! Monsters
If you are hungry for some more Procal Harum, Check out another of their shorter epics. Whaling Stories with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.
Whaling Stories in Denmark 2006 is also great. Great use of hammer and anvil.
Whaling Stories seconded!!
Please please play the live version with the Edmonton Symphony orchestra and choir from 1972. You will not be disappointed
Quite agree. The live version was superior in all respects because It was live and played as a one off with a full orchestra and choir. It is a masterpiece with a strong sense of presence
Yes Dave Ball's guitar work was a lot better than Robin Trower's.
Long time since I've heard this, Thanks. Beautiful,
Best version is live with Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.
RIP Gary...
une oeuvre magistrale , j'ai bien aimé en 1971 une version live , au canada....avec le symphonique de LONDRES ....
Forgot to mention that the Grand Finale sounding familiar is no surprise, since it begins very similarly to Haydn’s Menuetto al Rovescio. They used the Grand Finale also alone in several situations, since it can be pretty much a separate thing from the preceding music
Great analysis!
This often unpredictable shift to different, non obvious, keys, major and minor, is really typical of Procol music.
Something that might shed some light on how this masterpiece was composed is the notion that most of the music was composed by Gary Brooker and Matthew Fisher as SEPARATE pieces, the idea of sticking them together, also adding connecting and returning bits, came after a while.
Also, it’s interesting to note that there are in fact three vocalists on the studio version: the usual Gary Brooker, organist Matthew Fisher for Autumn of my Madness (who also played piano and rhythm guitar on that section) and lyricist Keith Reid himself, who speaks the words for the “held close” section.
The Edmonton version is pretty good and not too different, they had to arrange a few things differently of course, both to use more the orchestra and to allow for the transition, also Brooker does all the singing, since Fisher was no longer in the band. Guitarist Dave Ball is no Robin Trower but managed.
I also recommend the 1997 redhill reunion version, the only good recording with Mick Grabham on guitar and especially magic when Matthew Fisher takes on the rhythm guitar and sings Autumn of my Madness for the first time in almost 20 years. Also Douglas Adams (!!!) does the Keith Reid spoken part.
They began to do it again while touring in the 2010s, in fact I’ve heart it live three times in 2013 with orchestra
Please try the live version. It flows together much better than the studio version, in my opinion.
Agreed
Please check Saecula Saeculorum performing live version of the song of the band name with the fabulous violinist Marcus Viana.
Procol Harum the first concert I went to in 1973. Have loved them ever since.
Early Epic! I think VDGG listened for Lighthouse Keepers and KC for GP! Love it!
Dear Doug. May i challenge you with a quite strange music suggestion? The piece i was thinking about is :Zoviet*France: Something Spooked The Horses (from the album The Decriminalisation Of Country Music)
A Salty Dog would be a beautiful full album to cover.....many great and lyrically deep tunes.....
I just saw your review of this. I spent months listening to just this song in high school. I pity young people who do not have music like this to listen to as they grow. Unfortunately, they had to finish it as it had to fit on the record.
This album tears into the psyche and ego which was a big part of the 1960's. It gently eviscerates religion and other social dogmas leaving the character in the song exposed, raw, lost and alone, facing madness with nothing to stand on, leaving it to the listener to find their own answers not by following other's dogmas but in your own soul. Under a strong dose of LSD, it blows your mind and the realities we cling to shattered like a rock through a stained glass window.exhorting us to not be afraid but look through the shattered colors to see reality within and without. Peace please.
I don't know how I never heard this. That being said, I sure did enjoy it.
We think you will surely enjoy the live version of Procol Harum with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and Choir
So this was basically 55 years ago, 40-50 years before that we're dealing with revels bolero. They're both really good.
Imagine this Masterpiece from 1968 being recorded today.The choir heard was a School Choir:PH has never been blessed with good producers and the Manager ran with all the Money.A brutally beautifull Suite done by a criminally underrated Band.I have heart PH live 8 times(Denmark).Also with The Danish Nationel Symphony Orchestra.They are Gooood!Please react to "A Salty Dog"(Studio version).I will wait for it,because you are very good too.
I still get chills
So glad you finally got to this early prog suite masterpiece: others from '68 would include 'Ars Longa Vita Brevis' (The Nice), A Saucerful Of Secrets' Pink Floyd (similar choral resolution t this one), and Side 3 of of Electric Ladyland- the 'Rainy Day/Mermaid' suite one might call it...? Then there's the whole of 'SF Sorrow' by The Pretty Things, truly the first concept album..? Townshend thought so and it inspired him to write 'Tommy', which might not unjustly be up for consideration.
These videos are like the music course I was hoping to get when I was a young hopeful, sadly English academia just wasn't up it, then or probably even now...
Had only heard Transatlantic's version up until now.
Amazing!! Like the old Genesis!
You cannot analyze genius, you only diminish yourself! This is epic and is celestial!
The coda struck me as a great wedding march with a little psychedelia tossed in for good luck. And is it just me, or does Brooker remind you of David Bowie singing in his higher registers?
Opened the door for Genesis.
Brooker said that he was always terrified that when he sang "and though the crowd clapped furiously..." he would switch the 'r' and 'l'.
SKY OVERTURE by Uli Jon Roth!!!!!🎸
I can really recommend the song "No Borders" by "Ruskaja". Its very good music with a good message. Its rather unpopular european ( i think austrian) group, bit very cool. Got elements of Rock, Metal ans Ska. Very interesting, Special and cool.
This piece really comes to life in the ‘Edmonton’ live version, I think. The studio version sounds a bit…. timid?
The chord progressions on these songs are a bit different than the Moody Blues songs on 'Days of Future Pass' to my ears. More common practice diatonic progressions, exploring parallel minor/major, sequence, and secondary dominant/diminished chords. I really like the way they take melodic motives and adapt them to different progressions. They get lots of musical mileage out of 1-2 melodic ideas. This a very impressive effort.
Procol Harum is supposed to mean BEYOND THESE THINGS in Latin, but that would be Prucul Harem... close enough. Check out the various FAN MADE videos that accompany images to the entire epic. There used to be 4 of them, all very good
Hey Doug how about doing ELP Pictures at an Exposition?