Indelibly Stamped

by

Supertramp

Edit

Supertramp's second album is not particularly memorable when compared to their later stuff. In fact, it apparently led to the withdrawal of their mentor and backer due to its lack of commercial success. Other original band members also left and went their own way (however, as we later saw, from the ashes of adversity a mighty sonic force arose).

However, the key thing to remember here is that you're listening to a young band brimming with ideas and potential (well 'youngish' as Rick Davies was already about 27 here). It was 3 years later with the release of 'Crime of the Century' in 1974 that they bloomed. Also, only two band members who took them to great commercial success and critical acclaim are featured here (albeit Davies and Hodgson; the creative engine of the band).

This album has a heavier rock sound compared to the more esoteric and dreamy first album. The first track actually sounds a bit like Status Quo...! Ironically, I think their first album from the previous year - the eponymously titled 'Supertramp' is a more listenable and interesting album.

If you're a fan of the band, then this album is still a must for your collection - even if it is the acne-scarred youth of what was to come later. It's a bit like listening to the birth pangs of a mighty creative force.