Though originally from Ohio, Mad River had relocated to northern California to be a part of the psychedelic scene of the era. I was first exposed to the LP via a friend way back in 1990 or so. It was just too early in my collecting career to comprehend it. Having initially come from a heavy metal perspective - and by then fully ensconced into the world of 70s progressive rock - 60s psychedelia was beyond my reach. And so I wrote it off. Here we are 30 years later, and the reviews clearly point to a pioneering album - way beyond the usual psych fare. And they are correct. Now that I listen to 60s music as much as 70s it becomes apparent that Mad River was an exceptional album for its era. And quite bold for a major label release. So my friend had been right all along, though his perspective had been from the 60s. And that helps with this album.
Ownership: LP: 1968 Capitol. Single sleeve. Recent acquisition (2022) from JL. The CD remains the primary, but it's cool to have an original.
CD: 2013 BGO (UK). Recent acquisition (2020). Super CD that also includes their second album Paradise Bar & Grill. Full liner notes, photos, etc... The second album is more like country rock, not atypical of the San Francisco scene of the time. It's not without merit though, with some fine instrumental passages, and is perfect for bonus tracks. Not really worth owning by itself for my tastes.
6/30/20 (new entry); 9/30/22 (LP addition)
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