Pepper Tree - You're My People (1971)
Pepper Tree hailed from Nova Scotia and was formed in 1967. After a few years of saturating the club scene in Canada, the band finally landed a contract with Capitol Records in 1969. Producer, Jack Richardson, was drafted to produce a single which saw the band charting in their native country. Lineup changes ensued over the next year, until "You're My People" hit store shelves in 1971.
The album was a solid mix of folk, pop, prog and organ driven hard rock. With stellar harmonies and a real wealth of musical diversity, the album seemed poised for success, but for one reason or another that never came to pass. More lineup changes took place over the next two years with Capitol issuing numerous failed singles. By 1973, the band was belly up and members went on to such bands as Rhinegold, Molly Oliver, Hanover Fist, Wrabit, Lee Aaron, Chilliwack and Headpins. Many of them are still active in both performing and producing music.
Dig this relic of a bygone era that still commands the interest of collectors and aficionados worldwide. This stuff is fabulous and you'll be pleasantly surprised with what you hear :)
192kbps @ http://www.megaupload.com/?d=TULXDTV6
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3 comments:
This album is very good. Released in 1971 there are naturally some refrences or traces left from the late 60's and the 'Summer of Love', in some of the lyrics. The music is absolutely brilliant. Clearly very tallented musicians over all. I like the Hammond organ, the fine guitar playing and the general drive/groove in the music.
I really like all the diffrent genre styles combined in the music.
"Airplane" should've been a hit for the band if edited down to a suitable single format. The moving, beautiful ballad "From a Candle" should also have been a hit.
I'm impressed. It's clearly a lost gem.
Many bands in the 60's and early 70's were influenced by the Jesus movement and their own evangelical or 'born again' experiences. Most who were (like the Byrds and Bob Dylan) had their fling at Jesus rock.
Some, like 'America', had members leave to pursue Christian music careers.
Others, presented their faith in code, like 'The Youngbloods' in 'Get Together' (when the one who left us here returns for us at last).
This band created an album that is full of the good message without often referring directly to religion. They speak of the universal truths of good works and brotherly love, and they do it in such a way as to not be offensive. In fact, this is one of the most upbeat albums I've heard.
I like their folksy rock style. While not at the top of the albums J has listed here, this one is none the less a good listen.
Thanks J!
even in canada this is rare, I have several of their singles, but never see the LP. Just bought one on Be-Aye and got a good deal, so I'm going to be listening on wax next week, thanks for offering it digitally. Great, overlooked music.
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