review by daniel

This is one of those obscure classics that richly rewards the effort you made finding it. Comus played dark, gothic and demented folk-rock that sounds like nothing else. The instrumentation is purely acoustic and includes guitars, bass, flute, hand drums and violin. There are no ordinary drums or electric instruments present (Glen Goring is credited for electric, as well as acoustic, guitar but I frankly do not recall actually hearing it). Several singers, both male and female, contrast each other creating a twisted and schizophrenic atmosphere. The lyrics fit the demented nature of the music well since they deal with rape, murder and insanity, without straining after effect.

Highlights include the equally frantic “Song to Comus” and “The Prisoner”. The latter closes the album in a fantastic way that really leaves an impression. The vocalists tell a story about a man who is put in a mental institution, while they at the same time sound as if they belonged there themselves. The song ends with them chanting “insane” over and over. Great. Do not be afraid if you find yourself screaming “then they gave me chock treatment” for hours after that (it is perfectly normal).

Unfortunately, the first side of the album is significantly weaker than the magnificent second side. If side A would have been as good as side B this would have been a masterpiece. It is still a very good album, though.