Following Amelia : the 1972 recordings & more

"Now an acknowledged classic amongst country rock fans 'In Search Of Amelia Earheart' was competing with the likes of the Eagles, Jackson Brown and Joni Mitchell upon its release in 1972 and the album got lost in the shuffle somewhat. Glowing reviews did not turn into substantial sales but now thanks to this comprehensive 50th anniversary re-issue it's a chance to have its moment in the sun. An understated collection with no obvious hit single, the songs - amongst Matthews' best - veer from sensitive ballads to bluegrass flavoured country and reward repeated plays, with Sandy Roberton's sympathetic and crystal clear production highlighting the depth of the arrangements and vocal accompaniments perfectly. From the heart-breaking opener 'For the Second Time' - an underrated gem that shimmers with melancholy - to the eerie country folk rock of 'Call The Tune' it all has a quality that reminds you of the Flying Burritos at their finest - albeit with superior vocals".

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"After leaving Fairport Convention in 1969 (...), one of [Iain Matthews'] most satisfying endeavors was the group Plainsong, a project which ran its entire course during the calendar year of 1972 ... Released in October, the band's debut for Elektra, In Search of Amelia Earhart, was an inspired meeting of wistful folk-rock songwriting and American country twang filtered through the lush harmonies of three Brits and one New Yorker. Much like Matthews' other fine releases of the era, Plainsong's debut made little commercial impact, even though New Musical Express hailed it as "one of the classic albums of 1972" ... [This] elaborate box set offers a remastered edition of their debut along with their long-shelved follow-up and copious bonus materials including John Peel and Bob Harris BBC sessions, an entire 1972 Amsterdam concert, and even newly recorded versions by Matthews and Roberts to mark their 50th anniversary ... Unsung during their brief heyday, Following Amelia is the defining collection of one of British folk-rock's great cult bands".

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