Although I'm not a huge fan or follower of Supertramp, I did pick this disc up a few months ago after chatting with a few folks on a music forums discussion site and I can say that I'm very impressed by this early era recording by the 'Tramp. Glancing over some past reviews on this record, I've noticed that there is a relative theme and concept that runs throughout the duration of this recording and although I am not submitting this review based on those views, I'm simply going to come forth and talk about the music and songwriting contained therein.

 

Obviously, "Bloody Well Right" is one of the most popular numbers to reference from this recording and is one of my favorite 'Tramp singles. The opening number in "School" contains some dynamic and heartfelt vocals from Roger Hodgson and expertly executed musicianship arranged and performed by the group with some phenomenal keyboard work, courtesy of Rick Davies. "Hide in Your Shell" begins with electric piano accompaniment, backing Roger's distinctive vocal delivery with the addition of harmonies complimenting a strong, well crafted and melodically driven number. "Asylum", which features Rick Davies taking the lead vocals, remains one of my favorite cuts on the record. Beginning with Davies' tinkling of the ivories, this number takes its cue from the previous "Hide in Your Shell"'s organically progressive qualities as this number builds itself up into a major centerpiece within the album. The addition of strings adorns and brings depth to this cut, culminating to epic proportions and the creative duo of Hodgson and Davies is at one its several peaks here.

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"Dreamer" starts off the second side of this incredibly intense release and features a fast Wurlitzer keyboard melody pattern and is another notch within the Hodgson/Davies songwriting team; rendering a number that again, contains elements of progressive brilliance among the members of the group. "Rudy" is the second major track of significance, sharing its epic musical qualities with that of the prior track, "Asylum" in its written structure and performing arrangement. Led by Rick Davies lead vocals and colored with synth, guitar and saxophone accompaniments, this cut is another pivotal moment within the context of the album. During the track's middle section, there is another gradual build of exciting proportion, featuring Davies and Hodgson trading vocal lines while strings enter into the song's solemn coda, making a quiet finish to a number that offers many twists and turns, expertly written and executed throughout.

 

"If Everyone Was Listening" is lead by Roger's distinctive vocals and contains a number that is quietly brimming with power and beauty as accentuated by the group's collective dynamic. Ending with the masterfully written title cut, sung by Rick, the overall impact of this record is one of absolute wonder within the wealth of songwriting and musicianship displayed by the group and remains a special treasure in my CD collection. It certainly was worth a chance in acquiring and it just might spark me into checking out other releases such as "Crisis, What Crisis?" and "Even in the Quietest of Moments".

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Rating Grade- A