BOLD (MA) '69

"The Bold" 1969 (ABC s-705)

the LP is an appealing mix of floating dreamy Northeast organ psych a la Freeborne and early rural rock, has some really good psych tracks and is worth checking out. Three wellknown covers lessen the impact but not enough so to ruin the LP. . [PL]

~This Bosstown album probably failed to attract attention because it came a few years after the hype. Looking at the cover and seeing three familiar cover versions, you’d expect something unremarkable, but this is a real find, an original, highly creative album that stands with the best from the city. Lots of cool organ, interesting experiments (including a shimmering guitar instrumental that anticipates ambient music), jazzworthy chops, hooks that sneak up on you. Should appeal equally to psych and prog fans. Even the cover versions are great. Despite being on a major label, this rarely shows up for sale. [AM]

The Bold were an important act locally and actually quite popular. Many of their fans thought the production on the ABC album was weak, and so refused to buy it at the time. They were apparently a way better band live than any of their recordings, although very 'East Coast' in their sound. Bob La Palm and Timothy Griffin went on to found a band called Clean Living whose records are worth checking out if you can find copies. Tim Griffin also played drums in James Taylor's road band very briefly.
(Vernon Joynson / Jonathan Sharkey / Stephane Rebeschini)