Cressida (prog. rock / England)

Cressida, one of the pioneers of progressive rock music made two classic albums in 1970 and then disappeared into obscurity, only to re-form in 2010 to play a memorable one-off gig for the band's many fans who travelled to London from around the world to see this legendary band.

Cressida was an excellent band of early British symphonic progressive scene. Their sound is mostly dominated by the most beautiful and symphonic Hammond organ (dirty, and mellow), piano, bass, guitar, and drums. The instrumental sections are equally good, and tend to be typical of early 70s English prog rock. Thanks to the captivating atmospheres and the technical ability of the musicians. Similar bands include Fantasy, Beggars' Opera, Cirkus, Gracious and Spring. 


Both albums are excellent and very rare now (both were original Vertigo "Swirls"). Their self-titled debut is an early seventies forgotton classic with delicate vocals, gobs of organ and acoustic guitar. Cressida's second "Asylum" is the best. The combinations of instruments used for this album featuring the flute and different keyboard configurations accompanied by acoustic guitar works. This album, though, was by far the better one, with long instrumental passages and more elaborate arrangements.


Members:

Angus Cullen - lead vocals, acoustic guitar, percussion (1968-1970)
Kevin McCarthy - bass (1968-1970)
Iain Clark - drums, percussion (1968-1970)
John Heyworth - guitars, vocals (1968-70)
Lol Coker - organ (1968-69)
Peter Jennings - organ, piano (1969-70)
John Culley - guitars (1970)
Roger Niven - guitars (2011- present)



Cressida (full album): https://youtu.be/IkpyRZ5wJeM

Asylum (full album): https://youtu.be/wa8V1e0U20g

Discography:

- Cressida  (1970)
- Asylum (1971)