Here's an old CDRWL entry, and I've just obtained the LP. I'll start with the original notes:
One of the more interesting American groups from the late 1960's was a Boston based band called Listening, who released one superb album on the Vanguard label. Cynara is the band that formed from the ashes of Listening. Their sole album is an eclectic mix, just as Listening was, but not near as groundbreaking, rocking, or exciting. The first side is pretty much straight up organ rock, while the flip is filled by two long compositions with a jazz piano/organ lounge feel throughout. Yet another USA major label album from the confused year of 1970.
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I took a different approach last night and listened to this from a jazz perspective rather than rock. After two listens, I determined that's how Cynara works best. There's some similarities here to what Brian Auger was doing with Oblivion Express as but one example. Side 2 is the obvious jazz side, but side 1 does possess similar qualities, though on initial impact you could be forgiven for thinking it's straight up hard rock. It's a very odd release, and it has no commercial potential whatsoever. How cool is it, though, that Elvin Jones is the drummer on the last and longest track?
Ownership: LP: 1970 Capitol. Single sleeve. Found this along with the Bang at an antique shop in Florence, Colorado (2023). Still hasn't been reissued in any form. Good news is it's not an expensive album if you're in the market for one.
7/9/14 (CDRWL); 3/6/23 (new entry)
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