Released in August 1967, this album is a curious artifact... The band had released their debut early the same year, with 2 major hits... But they weren't happy about the record, because they weren't allowed to include their own songs (only 1 original in that debut). In fact, they had no voice at all in the matter. They had signed a contract that gave the record company total control over the band's name and activities.
However, for this second record, the producer - David Hassinger - wasn't active on the sessions, and they had the freedom they craved for... Almost all of the material here featured is original, as they'd wanted... It was their chance!
But, the album achieved only limited success, and the truth is - for the next one - they were again tightly under the wing of the record company, and the producer, who recruited David Alexrod to write and arrange the music for their 3rd record (and pretty much do anything he wanted with the band).
Of course, that was the end of the band, and the original line-up dissolved in the process. The formula was repeated for their next record, and they continued restrained until finally disbanding in 1970.
So - for all matters - this is their only and true effort... And what a beauty it is...
The songs are varied, beautifully arranged and produced, ranging from \"typical\" 60's songs (but really Top-Notch), to more rocking or experimental and daring pieces... A wonderful amalgam that has a timeless charm, that is able to please the most eclectic minds and ears...
I've read somewhere that the lack of success of the album was due to having no single to support it... Well, if you ask me, ALL songs on this record are Great Singles (perhaps with the exception of \"I\", the centerpiece of the record)... and that makes this a Juggernaut of an Album...
Now, I cannot even begin to talk about how much this album is underrated...
This is one of the top-Top records from the 60's... And of all time, if you ask me!
But most people didn't realize it... yet!
Let your ears be the judge!
For now, they remain the KINGS of the UNDERGROUND!
A perfect name for the record and a suitable end to this Series of Obscure Masterpieces... ; )
Tracklist:
1. The Great Banana Hoax 0:00
2. Children of Rain 04:09
3. Wind-Up Toys 06:46
4. Antique Doll 09:14
5. It's Not Fair 12:27
6. I Happen to Love You 14:32
7. Dr. Do-Good 17:47
8. I 20:14
9. Hideaway 25:28
10. Big City 28:11
11. Captain Glory 30:58
12. Long Day's Flight 33:12
CD bonus tracks:
13. Everybody Knows You're Not in Love 36:25
14. You've Never Had It Better 39:30
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