CZERWONY GITARY/SPOKÓJ SERCA XL 0734 (-71) MONO POLAND

 

 

  I think it's strange that so many collectors of psych, prog or symphnic rock neglect stuff recorded in the Eastern Bloc in the sixties and seventies. I guess some are put off by most of it sung in domestic languages, but musically it can be well up there with efforts from UK or US bands and there are true gems still out there to be found. To mention two of my favorites from there and then - the bittersweet East German "Renft"  https://monolover.blogspot.com/2021/09/klaus-renft-comborenft-8-55-396-74-east.html  and the brutal Polish "Trzy Korony"  https://monolover.blogspot.com/2023/04/krzystzof-klenczontrzy-korony-sxl-0779.html . Here's another Polish issue that has the ability to bring joy to any music lover.  Czerwony Gitary (The Red Guitars) was one of the most popular bands in Poland and neighbuoring countries. Formed 1965 and soon became a huge seller and popular live act. They also toured the US and recieved a special reward from Billboard Magazine. Lead guitarist and vocalist during their heydays was Krzystzov Klenczon, who left the group 1970 to form Trzy Korony (check link above). This their fifth album was recorded by the three remaining members. I get a couple of up-tempo cuts, but most of it soft folk psych with a fine blend of odd and melodic. Favotite tracks - the dreamy "Nie Jestes Cisza" (You Aren´t Quietude) and "Gdy Trudno Zasnac" (When It Is Hard To Fall Asleep) plus the soft rocker "Ucze Sie Zyc" (I Learn To Live). No clue if this mono is a separate mix, though it sounds right all the way so it might be. I may not understand Polish, but I do understand music...the universal language. Legally issued in Poland only (also as stereo SXL 0734). Reissued on CD 2003 (Muza 830988 046 2) and on clear vinyl 2021 (Muza SXL 9734). Premiere vinyl came with label as shown here in a thin glossy cover.  (BÅC*)