Procol Harum
Procol Harum (formed 1967, London, England) is arguably the most successful âaccidentalâ group creation â that is, a band originally assembled to take advantage of the success of a record created in the studio â in the history of progressive rock. With âA Whiter Shade of Paleâ a monster hit right out of the box, the band evolved from a studio ensemble into a successful live act, their music built around an eclectic mix of blues-based rock riffs and grand classical themes. With singer/pianist Gary Brooker and lyricist Keith Reid providing the bandâs entire repertory, their music e ...read more
Procol Harum (formed 1967, London, England) is arguably the most successful âaccidentalâ group creation â that is, a band originally assembled to take advantage of the success of a record created in the studio â in the history of progressive rock. With âA Whiter Shade of Paleâ a monster hit right out of the box, the band evolved from a studio ensemble into a successful live act, their music built around an eclectic mix of blues-based rock riffs and grand classical themes. With singer/pianist Gary Brooker and lyricist Keith Reid providing the bandâs entire repertory, their music evolved in decidedly linear fashion, the only major surprises coming from the periodic lineup changes that added a new instrumental voice to the proceedings. At their most accessible, as on âA Whiter Shade of Paleâ and âConquistador,â they were one of the most popular of progressive rock bands, their singles outselling all rivals, and their most ambitious album tracks still have a strong following. They differ from most of the progressive rock bands of the 70s in the relatively prominent blues component to their sound, which is largely due to the voice and piano of leader Gary Brooker. In the early years, Matthew Fisherâs organ and Robin Trowerâs guitar combined for a unique sound. « hide |
