Edgar Broughton Band

Introduction to Wasa Wasa

Wasa Wasa is the debut studio album by the British band Edgar Broughton Band. Released in July 1969 by Harvest Records, this album captures the essence of the underground psychedelic blues-rock scene of the time. The band, formed in Warwick, England, showcased a raw energy and political stance that resonated within the counterculture movement.

Musical Style and Themes

The Edgar Broughton Band is known for its gritty sound, heavily influenced by artists like Captain Beefheart. Their music blends elements of hard rock, blues rock, and psychedelic rock. The vocals, delivered by Edgar Broughton, feature a growled intensity that complements the band's hard-edged instrumentation. Lyrically, the album tackles themes of anti-militarism and social commentary, as evidenced in tracks like "American Boy Soldier." The opening track, "Death Of An Electric Citizen," sets a powerful tone, while "Dawn Crept Away" presents a harrowing 14-minute psychedelic suite that explores darker themes.

Production Details

Wasa Wasa was produced by Peter Jenner, known for his work with early Pink Floyd. The engineering was handled by Peter Bown and Peter Mew at the prestigious EMI Studios, also known as Abbey Road, in London. The album features liner notes written by John "Hoppy" Hopkins, a prominent figure in the UK underground scene. This connection highlights the band's alignment with the political and social movements of the era.

Track Highlights

Among the eight tracks, "Why Can't Somebody Love Me" presents a more personal and emotional perspective, contrasting with the heavier political themes of others. The diversity of styles within the album showcases the band's ability to navigate between hard rock and more experimental sounds. Each song contributes to the overall atmosphere of the album, making it a unique entry in the psychedelic rock genre.

Lineup and Contribution

The Edgar Broughton Band consists of Edgar Broughton on lead vocals and guitar, Arthur Grant on bass and vocals, and Steve Broughton on drums and vocals. Each member contributes to the raw sound and energy that defines Wasa Wasa. The interplay between the instruments and vocals creates a dynamic listening experience that reflects the band's live performance energy.