Druid

Druid's Debut: Toward The Sun

In 1975, British progressive rock band Druid released their debut album, Toward The Sun, through EMI Records. The album emerged after the band won the Melody Maker's national "Rock and Folk" contest in 1974, which led to a recording contract. Druid hails from Hertfordshire and was recorded at Morgan Studios in London, a location known for its high-quality sound production.

Musical Composition

Toward The Sun comprises seven tracks that exemplify the symphonic prog style reminiscent of bands like Yes and Renaissance. The opening track, "Voices," spans 8:13 minutes and sets the tone for the album with expansive melodies and intricate arrangements. Lead vocalist Dane Stevens delivers high-register vocals that draw comparisons to Jon Anderson. His performance is complemented by Neil Brewer's punchy Rickenbacker basslines, which evoke the sound of Chris Squire.

Andrew McCrorie-Shand adds layers of depth with his use of Mellotron and synthesizers. His contributions are particularly notable in the album's more elaborate compositions. Cedric Sharpley's drumming provides a dynamic backbone to the music, showcasing his skills which he would later bring to other famous projects, including Gary Numan and Tubeway Army.

Production Details

The album was produced by Bob Harris, a well-known BBC broadcaster and presenter of The Old Grey Whistle Test. His influence is evident in the polished sound of the record. George Nicholson served as the sound recording engineer, helping to capture the band's intricate soundscapes effectively.

Track Highlights

Among the standout tracks is the buoyant title track "Toward The Sun," which reflects the band's melodic sensibilities. The album also features two lengthy symphonic epics on its second side: "Dawn Of Evening" and "Shangri-La," both exceeding ten minutes in length. These pieces highlight the band's ability to weave complex musical themes and showcase their instrumental talents.

Druid's Toward The Sun stands as a representative work of the 1970s symphonic rock movement, marking the beginning of their journey in the music industry. The album was released in the UK in 1975, catalog number EMI EMC 3081.