Salamander - The Ten Commandments (A 1971 Psychedelic Diamond)

This is a band whose concept album is based on the Ten Commandments. Each track deals with a different commandment. The album, which was produced by Miki Dallon, was dominated by Bob Leaper's orchestral arrangements, but there are also some good melodies, strong vocals and organ work and powerful drumming. The best tracks are those where the orchestral arrangements are more discreet: "He Is My God", on which the melody sounds like King Crimson in places; "Images", which features strong vocals, good drumming and organ work; the mellow and melodic "People" and "False Witness", a good progressive piece with some fine guitar leads and powerful organ.

Salamander's "Ten Commandments" is a most interesting
album. Produced in 1971 (but released on CD by The Laser's Edge), it
has all the markings of a post-60's progressive release. Its sound is
heavy on the Hammond organ and the album is fully orchestrated. Ken
Golden from The Laser's Edge compares the organist to Jon Lord which is
not accurate, as Alister Benson lacks the technique of Lord. I would
compare Salamander more directly to Rare Bird's sound, with the
addition of orchestration.

The lyrics are at times direct, and at times vague. (Should we get
philosophical on the issue of adultery? The Bible is clear on this
topic.) However, it is well worth a listen if you like this early 70's
type of sound. I must give them credit for approaching this topic back
in 1971. I know of no other releases by them. A new group from the
90's goes by the same name.

01. Prelude Incorporating He's My God's (7:15)
02. Images (3:24)
03. People (2:50)
04. God's Day (2:27)
05. Honour thy Father and thy Mother (1:38)
06. Kill (3:31)
07. Thou Shalt not Commit Adultery (3:07)
08. Steal (4:20)
09. False Witnwess (3:54)
10. Possession (3:15)

Post by ChrisGoesRock