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NMM Review: Live in Cape ‘n’ Hogan
By Andrew Burns Live in Cape ‘n’ Hogan was the first collaboration between Tom Cape of Humble Pumpkin and Graham Hogan of Random Cat. It was recorded at the end of 1969 as Tom Cape ended his well documented association with cult leader D. Beau Harrison. It’s release in 1970 was pretty understated, treated by their record company as a curious side project for both men. The stylistic difference from either of their previous works adding to that sense- this was neither Tom Cape’s familiar psychedelic, elusive pop, nor Graham Hogan’s blues inspired British rock. This was folk-rock, soaring harmonies, melancholy and beautiful. But while this new direction was challenging for the A+R men it captured the zeitgeist perfectly and despite that slow burn it became the colossal international seller we now recognise, securing Cape and Hogan’s position in the pantheon that is home to all legends of popular music. So- has it stood the test of time? Emphatically so in the opinion of this reviewer. Despite Hogan’s influence it does stray very close to what might be considered Americana today (not necessarily a bad thing, just not to everyone’s taste), but the quality of the songwriting is evident for all. Cape’s poetic sensibility is more than obvious in the lyrics, but his more esoteric proclivities have been reined in, harnessed and rooted in reality by Hogan’s grittier, English, Northern perspective. The harmonies and production are beautifully layered and there are always new sonic treats to be found. As with all their albums Cape+Hogan are credited as joint producers, but it is widely acknowledged that arrangement and production value is Hogan’s gift to the partnership. From the first time I heard this album- I snuck into my older sister’s bedroom to play it on her beloved record player while she was out, very quietly so as not get caught- I was hooked. It remains my favourite of all their work, though I love everything they have ever done. Rumours persist of another album though both men are in their 70’s, but given their current war of words in the Twittersphere this would seem optimistic. I will wait eagerly, but in the meantime I am more than happy to continue listening to this gem.
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AuthorAndrew Burns really should know better and has so many more important things to be doing than writing this drivel. Please offer him no encouragement either via social media or through the contact page Archives
September 2017
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