Polyphony (psych rock, prog rock, space rock / USA)

Polyphony was a short-lived US outfit active in the early 70's. The band; consisting of Martin Ruddy (bass, vocals), Christopher Spong (drums), Craig Massey (vocals, organ, moog), Glenn Howard (vocals, guitars) and Chatty Cooper (percussion); recorded the album Without Introduction which was released in 1971. 
On this creation they fused vintage symphonic prog with psychedelic tendencies. It is thought that the band disbanded soon after the release of this album; which was the only one made by this act.

For many years an obscurity sought after by collectors, the album has been available on CD for some time now; after a surge of interest and curiosity about this creation came at the start of the internet age. 

Polyphony's "Without Introduction" is renowned for being a highly-collectable and listenable album of psych/prog jams reminiscent of some of the British or Italian psych monsters from the early '70s. Released in 1971 on the Eleventh Hours label (Eleventh Hour 1003), this hard progressive rock outfit from Virginia features some stunning guitar and keyboard work, as well as a percussionist at home on congas, timbales and just about everything hittable. The band is definitely influenced by early UK exponents of prog including Keith Emerson, Steve Howe and Peter Gabriel. The stunning original artwork lends itself perfectly to the album's inspired music.

Polyphony - Without Introduction  (1971, USA ):

Full Album (only to hear on YouTube): http://youtu.be/uiV3EJ7WuwM


1. "Juggernaut": 

Following a methodical organ and bass-led introduction, this first piece adopts a Middle Eastern flavor with a series of piercing slide guitar chirps. The Moog line that follows is similar to Aquatarkus. In fact, I'm inclined to think of "Juggernaut" as "Tarkus, Jr." The bulk of the piece features dazzling organ runs, heavy electric guitar, and frenzied drumming. The vocal passage that appears nearly nine minutes in is reminiscent of early Genesis.

2. "40 Second Thing In 39 Seconds":

This oddly titled track is a brief synthesizer in tremolo mode, followed by deep tones. It is unfortunate that it was not developed into a full-bodied piece.


3. "Ariel's Flight":

The longest track begins in a dissonant fashion, seemingly borrowing from ELP's debut. The lead guitar makes use of a slide and volume pedal. For a while it takes on a pace similar to the Apocalypse in 9/8 segment of Genesis' "Supper's Ready."

4. "Crimson Dagger".

More organ and electric guitar working in tandem over a rapid rhythm section begins the closing opus. Midway through, it assumes a lighter, charming visage, topping it off with the best vocal performance on the album. 



Members:

Martin Ruddy - bass, vocals
Christopher Spong - drums
Craig Massey - vocals, organ, moog
Glenn Howard - vocals, guitars
Chatty Cooper - percussion


Source: YouTube