This is the first of two collections of material Caravan recorded for the BBC, spanning the years 1970-1974. Caravan is one of the most versatile of the Canterbury family of English psychedelic and progressive rock, capable of winsome, witty pop songs as well as complex but melodic extended workouts. Songs for Oblivion Fishermen features examples of both styles. Half the disc features the band's original lineup with highly rated bassist Richard Sinclair. For the seasoned Caravan enthusiast, the repertoire is somewhat predictable, including standards "If I Could Do It All Over Again, I'd Do It All Over You," "Hello Hello," "In the Land of Grey and Pink," and "Memory Lane Hugh." To the band's credit, it does not attempt to recreate its studio recordings note for note, adding interest for longtime fans. Also included are two songs that were never released on Caravan's studio albums, "Mirror for a Day" and "Virgin on the Ridiculous." Newcomers could find this collection a good first pick, as it provides a warm welcome to the band's sound and approach as well as a good cross-section of its catalog. Songs for Oblivion Fishermen is a valuable addition to Caravan's discography. Jim Powers.
Disc 1: Hello, Hello If I Could Do It All Over Again, I'd Do It All Over You As I Feel I Die Love Song Without Flute Love To Love You (And Tonight Pigs Will Fly) In The Land Of Grey And Pink Memory Lain Hugh Hunting We Shall Go/Backwards Love In Your Eye (13:52) Mirror For The Day For Richard (15:03) Virgin On The Ridiculous