England

England, Deroy, UK 1976. £1,000.

Deroy was a Lancashire-based recording service, enabling unsigned artists to release custom recordings to vinyl at their own expense, usually manufactured in extremely limited runs of 99 copies. Although a small label, Deroy released some of the most sought after UK recordings of the 60s and 70s.

One of their most acknowledged releases is this excellent album by London-based power-trio England. Originally formed by guitarist/vocalist Olly Alcock in the Cumbrian town of Kendall in 1971, they embarked on a life on the road. But despite building up a dedicated following, a major-label deal wasn’t forthcoming.

England follows an unconventional line somewhere between early progressive hard rock and pub rock, while displaying fragments of early NWOBHM, which might have made them seem somewhat out of place at the time. But there’s some fine and fluid musicianship here, particularly in Alcock’s stunning guitar work. Opening track The Osprey, is a particular highlight, showcasing a heady blend funky hard rock with complex jazz guitar motifs, topped off with Alcock’s distinctly gravelly vocals. How Does It Feel follows a similar path, while Beauty & The Beast, is an infectious prog party number, complete with sax. Paradise Lost is harder hitting, yet never overdoses on heaviness, much like the rest of the album.

A competent and enjoyable album, which just lacks a little spark. LD

‘Somewhere between early progressive hard rock and pub rock.’