Nektar [Import]

Product Description
The First Album from the Prog Rock Brits that Found Success in Germany at the Star Club.

Nektar,Nektar,Bellaphon,Prog-Rock/Art Rock,Rock

Average customer rating: "Confusion"? Not if you get the remaster with bonus tracks! Great Nektar album Nektar CD - Remember The Future WHAT?? PROG ROCK?? Incredibly Dated/Overrated !! Food of the Gods

Remember the Future Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Down to Earth Tab in the Ocean Recycled The Snow Goose Moonmadness ASIN: B00006G89B Release Date: 2002-08-05

Tracks:

1. Remember the Future, Pt. 1
2. Remember the Future, Pt. 2
3. Remember the Future (West German Edit)
4. Let It Grow [#][*]
5. Lonely Roads [#][*]

Album Description

Remastered 2002 reissue of the British progressive rock act's 1973 album includes two previously unreleased bonus tracks 'Let It Grow' (radio promo only single edit. Previously unreleased on CD) & 'Lonely Roads' (radio promo only single edit. Previously unreleased CD).

Album Details

Digitally Remastered Edition of the Classic Nektar Album Augmented with Two Bonus Tracks: "Let it Grow" and "Lonely Roads" that were Previously Only on Radio Promo Only Singles.

Customer Reviews:

"Confusion"? Not if you get the remaster with bonus tracks!.......2007-07-16

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various music supplies and recordings from the 60's and 70's.

The answer is yes. Those that pose the question if I get a remastered copy of Remember The Future with the bonus single edit can I hear Roye's guitar? Thankfully, the latest version sounds the way the original album was intended for the listener.

This is one of the finest examples of progressive music ever crafted. Nektar's uncanny ability to mix their style of rock and roll with intense improvisational pieces is once again unveiled here.

Roye Albrighton's guitar-playing is stunning, Mo's bass is tremendous, Ron's drums excel and Taff picks his stops on the keys. The vocals are flawless.

Although thought of as two long pieces Remember The Future Part 1 and 2, the album has plenty of subdivisions to keep the journey exhilarating. Take a trip back in time
Life evolving growing higher
Not just space that bluebird sees
in the sea a new domain

The opening passage sets the tone for the bombardment of your senses. Lyrical and instrumentation can rarely reach this level. As we travel further the words intensify.

I was the first to see it all when the rainbow
crossed the bridge at dawn
Forty billion miles I came to tell this
Tale already told

When side two emanates from the speakers listen carefully to the section the band refers to as ""Bluebird" > "Smile" > "Lonely Roads." It's diversity and complexity is nothing short of extraordinary.

There are record albums and there are masterpieces preserved for the future to help us remember it.


Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

Great Nektar album.......2007-05-22

This 1973 release is a very pleasant album of spacey, psychedelic rock with great melodies and a slightly symphonic prog feel. Regarded by many fans as their finest album, The Remember the Future suite (Part 1 = 16'40"; Part 2 = 18'58") is well arranged and there is some good individual and ensemble playing throughout. The musicians on this album include Allan Freeman (synthesizers, Hammond organ); Roye Albrighton (electric guitar; lead vocal); Derek Moore (Rickenbacker bass guitar; vocal); and Ron Howden (drums; percussion; and vocals). The vocal harmonies are excellent and really stand out as a distinctive feature of Nektar's music.

Musically, the suite alternates between more "rocking" sections with hard edged electric guitar riffing atop an ostinato played in unison on the bass guitar and organ and more relaxed and spacey sections. I am reminded somewhat of the German prog band Eloy circa 1973-1974 during the psychedelic jams on Remember the Future - the group really cooks on these jam sessions.

The sound quality of this recording is excellent. This is especially noteworthy because there are a few copies of this album floating around that are pretty poor sounding. Trust me, stick with this Bellaphon release. The bonus tracks consist of two radio promos that consist of excerpts from the Remember the Future suite. Both are pretty good and do not sound like fragments.

All in all, this is a great album of psychedelic rock with some symphonic prog flourishes here and there. Recommended along with Recycled (1975) and two Eloy albums including Inside (1973) and Floating (1974).

Nektar CD - Remember The Future.......2007-01-16

I have been waiting for many years to locate this on CD and I'm thrilled to get it and am very satisfied with the quality. The band has a sound unique to a particular era. It's not everyone's cup of tea, but for a fan like myself, it's an essential piece of my music collection.

WHAT?? PROG ROCK?? Incredibly Dated/Overrated !!.......2006-10-20

WELL..
Seems the entertainment industry will REMASTER ANYTHING just to resell it.
DON'T get too excited about "Remember The Future".
I owned this recording in the 70's.
Purchased Recently and found it very D R Y!!

SAVE YOR MONEY
If you feel you really need this, look in the cut-out bins
and find it for $1.00

STEP BACK INTO THE 70'S
It's one of those "You had to be there" recordings,
Unless you are still living in the early 70's...

INCREDIBLY DATED!!
Period dated wah-wah guitar with tracks flowing into one another..
Every track on this recording is light, thin, practiclly hollow...
A bit TOO hollow for the high-end audio gear of the 70's!
Can't really rate this album as "Prog Rock". Can't be compaired to prog like Pink Floyd, Brand X or even "Maggot Brain".
Can't rate it as "Head Music" like Steve Harley either...

MATERIAL CONTENT
Does not contain any melodic riffs or lyrical content that would stick with you. Hippy orientated cover art is interesting however DATED.

GREAT MUSIC for pets and/or plants!
Don't play it at your party-
Will put all to sleep OR it will confuse
everyone that is younger than yourself!

Food of the Gods.......2006-06-18

Artemis and Apollo must be spinning Remember the Future on their Olympian stereo system right now because this is surely the purest distillation of Nektar's quirky but timeless genious. Alternately, rocking, spacey, psychedelic, funky, jazzy, Remember the Future features Roye Albrighton's hot guitar over a tight rhythm section and Taff Freeman's textured keyboards. As always, the singing is melodic and the arrangements beautifully constructed. And while some might snicker at the somewhat juvenile theme (an extraterrestrial bluebird who shows a boy the past and future history of the human race?), it's at least done in earnest. I rarely give any album five stars, but this is my desert island Nektar album (the one I wouldn't be without), so I'm justifying five stars in this case for perversity's sake. Great cover art, too, for those who care about such things.

Average customer rating: A must for all Nektar fans

Door to the Future: The Lightshow Tapes, Vol. 1 Nektar Manufacturer: Dream Nebula ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Sunday Night at London Roundhouse Pure: Live in Germany (2pc) Live at NEARfest Magic Is a Child The International Story ASIN: B0009SPXNC Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

1. Devils' Door
2. Nelly the Elephant
3. Cast Your Fate
4. Anyway/Sorrow
5. Little Boy
6. Odysee
7. Fidgety Queen (She's So Heavy)
8. Ron's On
9. Show Me the Way
10. I Need Love/Tommorrow
11. Tommorrow Never Comes/Path of Light
12. Recognition/Let It Grow/Termination

Album Description

This special release features 5 previously unreleased tracks and quite different alternative versions of well know favorites such as 'Fidgety Queen'. All tracks are live editions from Germany in 1974 when the progressive rock band Nektar were at the peak of their success. Eclectic. 2005.

Album Details

The First Official Nektar "Bootleg" from Eclectic Discs. This Special Release features Five Previously Unreleased Tracks and Quite Different Alternative Versions of Well Know Favourites Such as "Fidgety Queen". All Tracks Are Live Editions from Germany in 1974 When Nektar were at the Peak of their Success in Germany with a Number One Album in "Remember the Future". Sound Quality is Good for a Live "Bootleg" but Obviously Not as Technically Perfect as a Studio Album.

Customer Reviews:

A must for all Nektar fans.......2005-09-22

Believe it or not, despite the release date given by Amazon.com, I've had this CD for 6 weeks.
Anyway... This is a welcome glimpse into a live performance by a much under-appreciated band. It is actually an amalgam of several concerts within a fairly narrow time frame in the band's history. Given the fact that the recordings were almost 30 years old, there's only so much 21st century tinkering that can bring them up to today's level of expectation. That being said, it's still thrilling to hear these guys just before their popularity ascendancy. Three definite features that should help the potential buyer commit to a purchase are: hearing songs in their infancy before the committment (in those days) to vinyl; hearing songs that have never been recorded before; and reading Mick Brockett's liner notes about the band & the songs. Luckily for us this fellow was compulsive in recording details.
One note of curiosity: in extending his thanks to the band for their assistance in the production of this recording, he did not mention Allan "Taff" Freeman. Wonder why...
Great purchase!
Sorry, can't give it 5 stars. If I did no one would take me seriously.

Average customer rating: Nektar's best? As Good As Yes But Better Than ELP Another Take on Tab Great music, pathetic CD engineering The best of the CDs?

A Tab in the Ocean Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Remember the Future Nektar Journey to the Centre of the Eye Recycled Down to Earth ASIN: B0000072I1 Release Date: 1992-01-01

Tracks:

1. A Tab In The Ocean
2. Desolation Valley
3. Waves
4. Crying In The Dark
5. King Of Twilight

Album Description

Digitally mastered 1987 reissue on Bellaphon of their 1972album for Bellaphon. Five tracks, including the title cutand 'King Of Twilight'.

Customer Reviews:

Nektar's best?.......2004-01-07

Possibly--it's sure close to being their best. Bought this one way back in the mid seventies shortly after it came out and still like it quite a bit. Roye Albrighton's hot guitar is all over this one and the whole disc achieves a kind of ambient calm that's lacking on other Nektar records. Unlike some of the other reviewers, I've always found the open-ended reverb-heavy mix of this album quite distinctive, almost...oceanic?

As Good As Yes But Better Than ELP.......2002-03-17

This is one of those great prog-rock albums that nobody has ever heard... It's one of those few that are perfectly arranged and have solid theme that works with no flaws. The lengthy title track is actually better than Yes's "Close To The Edge" (Nektar is a little harder than Yes). The movements were thought through carefully and it never gets boring no matter how many times you listen to it. Sadly, in it's CD incarnation it hasn't gotten it's dues. The mixing is shoddy, and the quality is sub-par. Maybe one day this will be re-issued in the U.S. (I doubt it) and have better quality.. Not to mention a more decent price.

Another Take on Tab.......2002-03-03

Okay, here is the story on the many versions of Tab. In addition to the cd I own four vinyl copies (yes folks, there's one born every minute) and perhaps can provide some insight.

Tab was released originally in 1972 on the notorious Bellaphon label. Sometime later Tab was distributed on the United Artists (UA) label (remember them?).

In 1976 Tab was released on Passport. The Passport version differed from the previous iterations as it was remixed by Mo Moore (Nektar bassist) and Larry Fast (Synergy). Additionally, the Passort version was the first domestic (USA) release of Tab, the other two of course import.

The complaints about Tab's poor mastering most likely can be attributed to those whom are familiar with the 1976 Passport version. Although Bellaphon butchered Nektar's 'Remember the Future' cd, Bellaphon's mastering of the Tab cd is almost identical to the vinyl 1972 Bellaphon release. Is this a good thing? In my opinion - no. The hope I had was that the 'Tab in the Ocean' track (side one) would get cleaned up on cd as the bass and drum sounded muddy on vinyl and it still sounds muddy on the Bellaphon cd release. All the other tracks on Tab (side two) sounded clean on vinyl as they do on the Bellaphon cd release.

Still with me? Okay, so the folks familiar with the Bellaphon or UA vinyl versions might actually be pleased with this cd version, unless they are also afflicted with the same muddy drum and bass perceptions noted earlier in this review.

Now for the audiophiles that have the Passport vinyl version. The Passport version sounded considerably different than its predecessors. My guess is Passport version Nektar fans will be dissatisfied with the sound of the Bellaphon cd. Although the Passport version sound was certainly cleaner, it also contained flaws (IMHO). For example, guitarist/singer Roye Albrighton's vocals seem to sound sped up throughout Tab, almost Mickey Mouse like, when compared to the Bellaphon or UA versions. I'll stop here, don't want to sound like I'm nit-picking, but you would think Moore and Fast would have got it right.

In regard to vinyl my preference (slightly) would be the Bellaphon or UA releases over Passport. Initial impressions are hard to over come. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

In summary I would recommend this cd because most importantly the source material is very good in regard to the Nektar catalog. If 'Tab in the Ocean' would be remastered on cd again (hopefully with supervision by everyone in Nektar) I would purchase it again. Yes folks, there's one born every minute.

Great music, pathetic CD engineering.......2000-06-24

What a terrible, terrible disappointment this is. In my opinion, this is where Nektar reached their true potential, and the first side of this album, the title track, was their masterpiece. 'Tab' is a really powerful piece, musically and lyrically as well. From the opening organ riff and guitar power chords, through the longer spacey passages and recurring lyrical themes, concluding back to the original theme and exploding in a massive crashing guitar crescendo with the ocean waves pulling the listener out to sea. This was truly an amazing work and it still sounds pretty good on my scratchy old record.

A lot better than this bungled mess of a CD sounds. Whole guitar and keyboard passages are GONE, or reduced so far to the background they can't be heard. Rhythym guitar sections are cranked up while the lead is hardly discernable. The CD has a thin, 'amphitheatre' sound that wasn't there on the vinyl. When I first listened to this (with great expectations, I might add), I thought one of my CD player connections had come loose. All in all, this is just about the poorest 're-engineering' effort that I have ever heard. Given this, I simply cannot recommend it.

Please, please Bellaphon, give it another go. This is simply too fine of a recording to be butchered like this.

The best of the CDs?.......2000-06-15

This Nektar album is one of their all-time best. Unfortunately, this CD release, like the others, suffers from poorly digital mastering. I would say not as bad as "Remember The Future", but still enough to make a difference from the original release on vinyl in 1972. This CD release has been given a more "live" sound to it. That is to say that you may feel as if the music is being performed in a big hall of some kind. Not directly annoying, but it still makes the sound more "blury" than neccesary. And of course some guitar parts are barely noticable, which on the original was more in the front of the mix. This is no reason not to get this release, but please hold on to your vinyl copies too, just in case this is the only CD release of this album. Nektar's music alone speaks for itself. Let there be no doubt about that! For everyone who likes thematic progressive rock; this is a must!

Average customer rating: Great debut Great album A fine first effort A Good First Effort This is it,a lost prog-rock masterpiece!

Journey to the Centre of the Eye Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Nektar Down to Earth Remember the Future ...Sounds Like This Magic Is a Child ASIN: B0000072I3 Release Date: 1993-08-10

Tracks:

1. Prelude
2. Astronauts Nightmare
3. Countenance
4. Nine Lifeless Daughters of the Sun
5. Warp Oversight
6. Dream Nebula, Pt. 1
7. Dream Nebula, Pt. 2
8. It's All in the Mind
9. Burn Out My Eyes
10. Void of Vision
11. Pupil of the Eye
12. Look Inside Yourself
13. Death of the Mind

Album Description

Full title - Journey to the Centre of the Eye. 1971 album for Bellaphon. 13 tracks, including 'Astronauts Nightmare', 'Burn Out My Eyes' and 'Death Of The Mind'.

Customer Reviews:

Great debut.......2005-04-01

Nektar is often thrown in the Krautrock bunch, even though in reality they were a British band, but residing in Germany. Journey to the Centre of the Eye was their debut and the only weak spot of the album is the rather flat production, but the musical quality more than makes up for the shortcoming. This album is a collection of songs all segued in to one another, intended to be listened to as a whole. This tended to the more psychedelic end of the prog rock spectrum, much like Pink Floyd. I can also easily recommend this album to those who like the early Eloy albums like Inside and Floating, and they too explored that similar kind of early '70s Hammond organ/guitar-oriented prog at that time. Journey to the Centre of the Eye seemed to be inspired by the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey (the cover even looks like it was taken from the movie, of course it wasn't). The concept was about space travel, and the view of the universe through the eye, only to view the destruction of the Earth. Nektar had never been big Mellotron users, but this was the album that uses the most of it (it's not plastered with it), and while Allan "Taff" Freeman was the keyboardist, apparently it was bassist Derek "Mo" Moore who handled the Mellotron (the album mispelled "Mellotron" as "Melotron" with just one "l"). The rest of the band consisted of Roye Albrighton on guitar and Ron Howden on guitar. All, except the drummer handle vocal duties. It's really hard picking out my favorites, but here goes: "Astronaut's Nightmare", the strange experimental spacy piece "Warp Oversight" (which has more in common with the likes of Ash Ra Tempel here), "The Dream Nebula Part I and II", "It's All in the Mind", "Void of Vision" and "Pupil of the Eye". "Burn Out My Eyes" starts off rather mellow with some nice use of tron flute, and as it goes on, there's nice vocal harmonies. "Pupil of the Eyes" remind me of Inside and Floating-era Eloy, even Roye Albrighton (I believe) sounds like Frank Bornemann here (without the Germanic accent). But remember back in 1971, Eloy were still a politically-oriented hard rock band with Erich Shriever and Helmut Draht (with Frank Bornemann only playing guitar), and one self-entitled album on the Philips label. So I'm pretty convinced Nektar was an influence in Eloy's sound during the Inside and Floating period. Throughout, aside from the Pink Floyd-influence, another band I can't help but be reminded of is Camel, and that band had yet to exist. And while I thought the instrumental passages meandered a bit at times, and of course the production really needed a lot of help, it still proved how Nektar was one of those prog rock bands that got it right the first time (whereas such well-known groups like Yes or Genesis took about three albums to get it right). To me, this is an essential album in your prog collection.

Great album.......2003-12-17

This album is Nektar's 1st album from 1971. Its a very psychedelic album and, in my oppinion, its by far Nektar's best album. None of their other albums compare to this one and sound like this. Nektar should have kept their style the way it is on this album on their later releases. But they became much more commercial sounding. I highly reccommend this album to any fan of psychedelic or progressive rock. I also recommend the 2nd album, A Tab In The Ocean, from 1972.

A fine first effort.......2003-05-16

I have had this CD for about five years now. It is very psychedelic in places--somewhat similar to Syd Barrett era Pink Floyd. However, as that era of Pink Floyd was somewhat geared towards being a singles band, there was none of that here. All of the tracks segue into the next. My only complaints are that it is so trebly and lacking of bass. Also, why did Bellaphon follow the album version to the letter by leaving "The Dream Nebula" separated into two halves? That destroys the song in my estimation. I remember the initial CD release of ELP's "Brain Salad Surgery" did that on the "Karn Evil 9" suite. But when they remastered it, they fixed it--no fading out. Surely, if Bellaphon ever sees fit to remaster this again, they could cut the treble down, add more bass, and especially, let "Dream Nebula" play through uninterrupted.
If you can look past these flaws, it's still a great album. I started here with Nektar, but anyone new to them may want to begin with "Remember the Future".

A Good First Effort.......2002-09-22

I could not resist contributing a review of this album, if only to contradict the two previous reviewers who opine that this is Nektar's best album. Let's put it this way: there are probably 1,000 less talented art/prog/space-rock bands for whom this album would be a masterpiece. For Nektar, it is literally and figuratively just getting started. Think of this in relation to Remember the Future as something like Yes's first album as compared with Close to the Edge. The songs have some punch, the melodies are well wrought, the vocals are fine, the guitar work is excellent - but for all that, it is not even as good as Nektar's second effort, A Tab in the Ocean. Also, though the sound is pretty good for the time, it is deinitely the muddiest of any Nektar album (I'm juding by the vinyl - I have not heard the CD version, but it has not been remastered yet). My advice is, if you are already a Nektar fan, buy the album for sure; if not, start with Remember the Future (make sure you get the 2002 remaster, not the previous icky one) and then get their other two classic albums, Down to Earth and Recycled. With all of Albrighton's brilliant guitar work, including Journey, I think his best work is on the live album Sundy Night at the London Roundhouse. (This is available on CD, but according to the Nektar web site it is going to be released as two separate expanded albums, including the entire Roundhouse concert and an expanded album of the studio jam). By the time you have digested all those you should be ready to fork over money for Journey, Tab, and Man in the Moon (a great comeback album, reminiscent of Asia's best work.) One of the most underrated bands of the 1970's, Nektar has been in my pantheon of rock greats for almost 30 years.

This is it,a lost prog-rock masterpiece!.......2000-04-15

This is an extraordinary tribute to one's senses!Endulge yourselves in this masterpiece.Melodic,dramatic,mysterious,this is a prog-rock group that should be considered seriously if you like bands like King Crimson and Van Der Graaf Generator.I think Roye Allbrighton may have been an influence on verve guitarist Nick Mccabe.I can say that I find this album is worth sharing my thoughts,more than my Captain Beefheart review.It has some themes of sensory overload this is always a treat.It's a good cerebral album,perfect to understand true power in music! WARNING NOT FOR THE FAINT AT HEART!

Average customer rating: Raw but fun

More Nektar Live in New York Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Nektar Live in New York Evolution ASIN: B0000072I6 Release Date: 1993-01-22

Tracks:

1. Fidgety Queen
2. That's Life
3. Show Me the Way
4. Marvelous Moses
5. It's All over Now
6. Astral Man
7. Remember the Future, Pt. 1
8. Remember the Future, Pt. 2
9. King of Twilight

Album Description

Includes bonus track. Vine. 2005.

Customer Reviews:

Raw but fun.......2000-11-29

Ok, its not the best sound quality, the performances are not note perfect, and its really a bunch of pieces thrown together rather than a full show (after the first track, the band says 'good night'(!). But its still a great listen for those times on the freeway when you want something to rock on to but still hold on to some of your "progressive pretensions".

I think this CD is preferable to the other live in NYC CD due to the inclusion of most of Remember the Future, Nektar's stand out classic.

Average customer rating: Don't buy it! Nektar is tart and sweet on this recording Imaginative Progressive Classic. Thanks Jim-Bob Nektar not at their best, but still good

Recycled Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Remember the Future Down to Earth Nektar A Tab in the Ocean Journey to the Centre of the Eye ASIN: B0000072I8 Release Date: 1991-12-31

Tracks:

1. Recycle
2. Cybernetic Consumption
3. Recycle Countdown
4. Automation Horrorscope
5. Recycling
6. Flight to Reality
7. Unendless Imaginations
8. Sao Paulo Sunrise
9. Costa del Sol
10. Marvelous Moses
11. It's All Over

Album Description

Digitally mastered 1987 reissue on Bellaphon of their 1975 album for the label. 11 tracks, including 'Unendless Imaginations', 'It's All Over' and 'Recycle'.

Customer Reviews:

Don't buy it!.......2003-11-18

What kind of idiots make an album about recycling? These guys must be really stupid, I bet they sound like crap. My advice is, don't buy it!

Nektar is tart and sweet on this recording.......2002-04-23

Considering the value of this music, I am still moved by its creativity, content, and emotional cohesiveness. Nektar at their best forged a unique ensemble sound. Quick-jump changes in mood, tempo, and intensity combined with a superb production environment compel the listener to embark on a journey with the band, a journey to the whispered hopefulness of the final track, which oddly enough seems overlooked as one of Nektar's most unique and daring tunes on record, opting for a less-is-more closing. Listen to the album through good headphones, and the enjoyment is magnified. I like Nektar's refusal to parade chops in the place of emotion and passion--this is a passionate and heartfelt work. Frankly, some of Yes' tunes are virtuosic, but fail to arouse my spirit like Recycled does.

Granted, the first half of the recording is superior to its brother...nevertheless, the whole recording keeps me captivated.

Imaginative Progressive Classic........2002-03-23

Nektar never really made the impact that other prog bands like Yes, Genesis or King Krimson did. When you listen to Recycled you have to wonder why. From today's standards most prog rock seems a bit trite, nevertheless, Nektar created a timely piece here that speaks to the issues of the day and does it with some very inventive music. Back to the Future is one of my favorite Nektar albums but I think Recycled shows a greater maturity of sound and style. It's such a waste of time to compare music of this genre and say one is so much better than the other. I appreciate all the progressive bands for stepping outside the mainstream and giving us great alternatives.

Thanks Jim-Bob.......2002-02-19

Recycled is a good representation of prgressive rock, about as good as it gets. In fact, Nektar is a great band that is highly under-rated. They went to Germany because it was one of the main venues for progressive rock not because they couldn't make it in England. Germany is still one of the more progressive electronic music centers of the world.

Noho, were you paid by Larry Fast to write your review? Larry Fast, although a great electronic keyboardist, was not the only keyboard player on the Recycled album. How do you really know what keyboard parts are Larry's and what parts are Taff's?

As for the use of choral arrangements. The choral arrangements on this album are among the better examples I have heard over my many years of rock music listening. To their credit, Nektar did not over do the choral arrangements for this project the ohter bands have.

I agree with Jim-Bob, I had a copy of this record when it first came out in 75-76. I was happy to see it released again on CD.

If you are not a big fan of progressive rock but feel like experimenting, this and Nektar's Remember the Future albums are great buys. If you love progressive rock this album is a must for your collection. FEG

Nektar not at their best, but still good.......2000-10-22

This was a good album, but some of the earlier reviewers are correct, it was not up to snuff to the prior two records, but I still loved it. I have not heard the CD version yet, but the LP is great! A Tab in the Ocean and Remember the Future blow this away, but this album is well worth the purchase and the listen. If you enjoyed those albums, you will enjoy this one, though the production values seem to have suffered somewhat and for what reason, I have yet to figure out. Anything by this group blows away ELP, Yes and any other progressive rock group, by a long shot.

Average customer rating: "Show Me The Way" to the CD remaster with bonus tracks! and she said "Can you turn that junk DOWN,please?!" AS GOOD AS I REMEMBER Fabulous, and one of my Favorite Nektar albums A nice follow-up to REMEMBER THE FUTURE

Down to Earth Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Remember the Future Tab in the Ocean Recycled Journey to the Centre of the Eye Nektar ASIN: B0000072I2 Release Date: 1992-01-01

Tracks:

1. Astral Man
2. Nelly the Elephant
3. Early Morning Clown
4. That's Life
5. Fidgety Queen
6. Oh Willy
7. Little Boy
8. Show Me the Way
9. Finale

Album Description

1974 album for Bellaphon. Nine tracks, including 'AstralMan' and 'That's Life'.

Customer Reviews:

"Show Me The Way" to the CD remaster with bonus tracks!.......2007-07-14

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various music supplies and recordings from the 60's and 70's.

After one of the finest progressive rock masterpieces "Remember The Future" the guys from Nektar had to decide the direction of their next project. Do you continue with the theme record and the longer tracks or attempt something different? Nektar went with the alternate route and along with "Sounds Like This" comes their most underrated achievement.

1974's "Down To Earth" with Hawkwind friend Robert Calvert acting as ringmaster for the progressive circus is a tremendous listen. "Astral Man" is in its proper place as the album opens. Offering the perfect combination of catchy instrumentation with a great vocal, the three-minute tune would be superlative on stage as well. "That's Life" is a work of art. The beauty of the song comes alive each listen. "Fidgety Queen" is in your face Nektar rock and roll with no apologies needed. "Oh Willy" can be thought of as a shorter version of "A Day In The Life Of A Preacher" from "Sounds Like This." In short form it still takes hold of your body. The album builds momentum and by the time the eighth track rolls around "Show Me To Way" you are elevated to an even higher level of musical brilliance. Make sure to please purchase the remaster with 6 alternate versions and some Robert Calvert ringmaster outtakes!

If you are looking for the first Nektar CD to purchase any order of "Remember The Future", "Recycled", or "A Tab In The Ocean" will surpass your expectations. Once you have absorbed the wizardry, next should be "Journey To The Center Of The Eye", "Sounds Like This", and "Down To Earth." Those would cover the original Roye Albrighton catalog. "Magic Is A Child" with Dave Nelson stepping in takes a different approach but still a must own. You then will have several reunion choices and Roye solo projects to engulf.




Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

and she said "Can you turn that junk DOWN,please?!".......2006-07-28

we were on the way to get 'white pizza'(no tomato sauce) in a ritzy cul-de-sac and on the way i thought, Well, since i don't have a car myself, and she does, i'll just plop my NEKTAR tape into her player and won't she be enticed,'eh?
so i did and about two minutes into the Gently Slip Away
she noticed the album
really noticed it and said
"What kind of Crapola are you playing on my brand new tape player, anyhow? and can you turn it down, please? like NOW?"
that didn't bode well at all
the album that opened my head
(we didn't see each other much after that blunt trauma, as you can well imagine....)

AS GOOD AS I REMEMBER.......2005-04-18

It has been many years since I even thought about Nektar. My first encounter with the group was with this album, "Down To Earth". I saw them some thirty years ago in a half sold out movie theater in Garden City. They were phenomenal.

The album is just as good, if not better than I remembered it to be all those years ago. It's a concept album, it's a prog rock album, it's melodic. it's great. You can hear their influences and yet the music is uniquely their own.

Fabulous, and one of my Favorite Nektar albums.......2005-03-05

Totally original and self contained musical environment. For those who want to understand what "progressive" means, listen to this and other great Nektar albums. THese guys pratically invented the concept. This particular album is in my view at least, one of their 2 best. Remember the Future of course broke all the molds for the time, but this one, was a true concept album. Most of their others were either good or great, but this one is fabulous.

They were experimental, radical and conservative at the same time. Listen to this collection, and hear zillions of styles. And then look at the year of its creation, and think about what else was being recorded back then. Lots of clone radio music, and some adventurous ideas, but not much this out there. Genesis even started to tighten their range in this period.

This is awesome music, for any student of the era.

A nice follow-up to REMEMBER THE FUTURE.......2005-02-05

Actually....my guess is, these tracks came from the same writing session as "Remember"....the nice thing about Nektar...after they clicked on a sound and style that proved successful...instead of running them into the ground with a slew of clone followup albums (ie. as with bands like JOURNEY, BAD COMPANY, JETHRO TULL) they moved on to new unchartered territories....Isn't that what "progressive rock" is supposed to be all about???? (key word here is PROGRESS) If you dont move on and explore....it isn't progressive...'nuff said on that.

Once again reference is made that these guys are a Beatles influenced band....I would have to say....the Beatles influence here, as with all their albums...is very minimal...THEY SOUND LIKE NEKTAR...Now...for good or bad reasons....that kind of originality and honesty to ones own style should not go unnoticed....sadly in a day when clone bands seem to all jump on media bandwagons..to sell records...and get rich..some bands place a higher regard on staying true to their art and convictions....how can you go wrong with a band like that????

I'm really glad to know these guys survived and are still around.

Average customer rating: it is a re-edition Kicking my ( )!

Nektar Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Journey to the Centre of the Eye A Tab in the Ocean Remember the Future Down to Earth More Nektar Live in New York ASIN: B0000072I7 Release Date: 1991-12-31

Tracks:

1. Do You Believe in Magic
2. New Day Dawning
3. Wings
4. Cast Your Fate
5. Cryin in the Dark
6. King of Twilight
7. Burn out My Eyes

Album Details

The First Album from the Prog Rock Brits that Found Success in Germany at the Star Club.

Customer Reviews:

it is a re-edition.......2002-04-17

this record is an cd import re-editon of the original vinyl called "sound like this" released in 1973; it's the third lp of Nektar , lessknowned but so good.the picture of this re-edition cd is not the same than the original vinyl; i prefer the original picture because it's more psychedelic !buy this record, it's a good progressive rock.

Kicking my ( )!.......2000-06-18

This is their 8th album released in 1976. Unfortunately, it is already out of stock, but is still around... local used cd store etc. It is definitely worth getting! They are, in my personal opinion, strongly influenced by the Beatles (can seen from their cover song of Norweigian Wood), sound like Wishbone Ash and Uriah Heep. They totally rock... kick my ( ) all the time! Very good album!

Average customer rating: I was there too - great show - poor mix Nektar - 'Live 2002' (Classic Rock Productions) 2-CD I was there... Better than you might expect! A welcome blast from the past

Greatest Hits Live Nektar Manufacturer: Classic Rock Legends ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Progressive | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music ASIN: B00006RHQS Release Date: 2002-10-22

Tracks:

1. Tab in the Ocean
2. Desolation Valley
3. Remember the Future, Pt. 1
4. Nelly the Elephant
5. Man in the Moon
6. It's All Over
7. Now

Tracks:

1. Recycled
2. Day in the Life of a Preacher
3. Remember the Future, Pt. 2
4. Crying in the Dark/King of Twilight
5. Fidgety Queen

Album Description

Double CD recorded live at the sold out New Jersey 'Nearfest 2002'. Highlights include 'A Tab In The Ocean', 'Desolation Valley', 'Nelly The Elephant' & 'A Day In The Life Of A Preacher'. Classic Rock.

Customer Reviews:

I was there too - great show - poor mix.......2005-12-14

I was at this show as well and although the sound could have been better, it was great night of music. That said, as a cd, this mix is muddier than many bootleg concert recordings I have, so I cant give it more than 3 stars.

Nektar - 'Live 2002' (Classic Rock Productions) 2-CD.......2005-02-17

The CD's title is incorrect,on the front cover,it reads 'Greatest Hits Live'.That's ironic because I never knew Nektar had any hits.Nonetheless,'Live 2002' is a great audio document of a moment in music history that many prog fans never thought would happen.Nektar with all five original members not only reunited to cut a new album,but toured AND came to play several dates upon U.S. soil.This is the third Nektar release I've ever had.Quite impressive.'Live 2002' took place at the annual New Jersey progressive Nearfest event.The setlist could've been a little better,but that's okay.Sound is great.Notice that maybe guitarist Roye Albrighton's vocals have lost a tad of it's range.But,what do you expect after nearly thirty years?Most of these cuts come from the lp's 'A Tab In The Ocean'('72),'Down To Earth'('74)and 'More Live In New York'('78).Even a couple that appear to be exclusive to this live release,"Recycled" and "Crying In The Dark/King Of Twilight".At least two hours of irresistible British progressive here.Line-up:Roye Albrighton-guitar&vocals,Mo Moore Bass-guitar&vocals,Alan Freeman-keyboards&vocals,Ron Howden-drums and guest Larry Fast-synth.Should appeal to fans of ELP,Focus,early Genesis and King Crimson.Recommended.

I was there..........2004-07-29

I'd waited nearly 30 years to see Nektar with Roye Albrighton. (I'd seen the Dave Nelson version, and though they were good, I wanted to see the "real thing.") Thanks to an old dear friend I was one of those lucky folks who scored a ticket during the 45 minute frenzy before they sold out.

The concert was, frankly, a bit of a mess; for about the first 40 minutes the mix was so bad you couldn't hear Albrighton's guitar. When they finally fixed it I was amazed; they were as good - to my ears - as they'd been on the '70s live albums like LIVE IN NYC. Awesome playing by all involved.

So when I had the chance, I ordered this CD. I popped it into my car stereo and, minutes into "A Tab in the Ocean," I had to pull over. I was crying happy. To have a document of such a peak moment is just wonderful.

But what about people who didn't see the show? Is this CD for you?

It has its mix problems too - mainly what I call "muddiness," a lack of good separation between the various instruments and vocals - but it's far superior to the hall mix in Trenton that day. Everything is clearly audible. The selection of tracks from the performance is impeccable (I only regret that they left out "Marvellous Moses"), and the playing is just superb. Yes, there are clams, but no trainwrecks. The four core members of Nektar, suplemented by two female vocalists, a percussionist, and synth wiz Larry Fast, whipped through two-plus hours of material from the classic Nektar albums, plus just one(!) song from the newest album, THE PRODIGAL SON. It's all good.

This wouldn't serve as a good introduction to Nektar, because of the sound, but for someone who knows the music and wants to hear it played live, this is great stuff. And if you're trying to decide whether to see them on their upcoming tour of the US with Caravan, this should help you make up your mind. (You'll go!)

Better than you might expect!.......2003-05-13

I must offer a rebuttal to the previous review here. While this recording is first and foremost for the established Nektar fan, it also serves as a decent introduction to the entire Nektar catalog. In general, it's always preferable to hear live renditions by a band at their "peak" which could be argued in Nektar's case to be somewhere between 1973 to 1976. Unfortunately, there aren't any high quality live recordings from this era, to my knowledge. The "Live In New York" and "More Live In New York" recordings from 1977-78 are the only legitimate recordings on the market, and they are of pretty low recording quality. This current set from 2002 sounds MUCH better!

I also take issue with the statement that Roye Albrighton's voice is "not what it once was." After 20-plus years, who's is? But he does hit most of the high notes quite nicely and the singing is certainly not a weak point here. Compared to a lot of rock singers at this stage of their careers, his voice is holding up quite well.

The musicianship of all involved is quite strong. These guys have clearly been active, and they have worked these classic songs into nice shape here. There isn't much rust that you can hear. Particular credit goes to Ron Howden, who sounds wonderfully crisp and muscular on the drum kit.

The energy and enthusiasm of the concert certainly comes across. Tickets for this concert sold out very quickly and you can tell the audience was excited to be there. These CDs are the next best thing we have if we weren't one of the lucky few.

A welcome blast from the past.......2003-01-10

I waited a long time for this release & I was fairly well satisfied. For those fans of Nektar I would strongly recommend this CD. The musicianship & frenetic energy is still there. What is not there is quality production. Voices maddeningly fade in & out or are so far in the background you begin to wonder if this was a bootleg. Roye's voice is not what it once was. You can hear him holding back from those old high notes. There should have more auditions for their choice of back-up singers. Finally, I would have also wanted to see more band photographs.
No matter. Nektar was one of my old college-day favorities. It was a pleasure listening to them again. "Fidgety Queen" alone was worth the price. Helluva show stopper!

Average customer rating: Magical Nektar Nektar made it happen again! Complex and rewarding

Magic Is a Child Nektar Manufacturer: Bellaphon Germany ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Progressive Rock | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Rock | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Journey to the Centre of the Eye Nektar Down to Earth Recycled Remember the Future ASIN: B0000072I5 Release Date: 1992-01-01

Tracks:

1. Away from Asgard
2. Magic Is a Child
3. Eerie Lackawanna
4. Midnight Light
5. Love to Share (Keep Your Worries Behind You)
6. Train from Nowhere
7. Listen
8. On the Run (The Trucker)
9. Spread Your Wings

Album Description

Nektar's 1977 studio album is presented for the first time remastered from the first generation master tapes. By the time of its recording guitarist Roye Albrighton had departed the fold to be replaced by Dave Nelson. Featuring stand out tracks such as 'Away From Asgard', 'Listen' and 'Magic is a Child', the Dream Nebula reissue also includes a bonus track in the form of an alternate version of 'Train to Nowhere' featuring contributions from King Crimson guitarist Robert Fripp. Bellaphone. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

Magical Nektar.......2005-12-14

Though not quite in the same class as "Remember the Future" or "A Tab in the Ocean," "Magic Is a Child" is in retrospect quite a good album. It contains artmetal mayhem ("Away from Asgard" and "The Trucker"), several nice ballads (the title track and "Listen") as well as the ethereal "Train to Nowhere" (my personal favorite track on the album) and the rocking "Spread Your Wings." Roye Albrighton's presence on guitar is definitely missed, but Dave Nelson, perhaps unexpectedly, turns in a fine performance. Great cover art, too!

Nektar made it happen again!.......2000-05-29

I bought this album many moons ago,with some trepidation, as Nektar was adding a new lead guitar to the ensemble, in the personage of Dave Nelson. The tackety tack sounds of Albrighton had always been characteristic of Nektar to me, as much as the sureal keyboards and wild light show. Not to worry! Nelson and Nektar delivered again. This album is not as thematically cohesive as the run that preceded, (notably Back to The Future and Recycled) By the way-I agree- no to NOHO! See Recycled reviews! Nelson and Nektar deliver superbly with "Listen" and "Spread Your Wings" among the most amazing cuts they ever delivered. I have to say that I was delighted not to miss Albrighton and this album remains on my most played list. This is especially true when I require an intense guitar KA session. Pink Floyd fans take note- Nektar is worth your time and investment. Larry Fast kicks in with another amazing guest appearace. I can almost taste what I really liked about the 70's again, and it sure wasn't disco Rock on with Nektar!

Complex and rewarding.......1999-02-13

This album has been unfairly written off as too much of a commercial pop attempt for the average Nektar fan. A shame, really. Some of Nektar's best music can be found here. They run through several different styles here, from a classic Nektar prog-rock track ("Away From Asgard"), to ballads (the title track), to the sort of hard-driving music that is perfect for late-night long-distance drives ("Eerie Lackawanna"), to a song about CB radio and truck drivers(!). As usual, Larry Fast of Synergy turns in a great performance as guest keyboardist.

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1. No Substance [Import]
2. No Substitutions: Live in Osaka [Live] [Import]
3. One Nil [Import]
4. Piano Bass Drums [Import]
5. Pleasure To Burn
6. Poised to Meet the Maker [Import]
7. Progression in Balance Vol.1
8. Rest of the 80's [Import]
9. Rise [Enhanced]
10. Rockabilly Guys: Best of

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