Blodwyn Pig
Getting to This

THE REVIEW

Blodwyn Pig recorded two albums between 1969 and 1970, their chemistry giving rise to a shrewd blend of blues, jazz, and rock. The mind behind the project was undoubtedly Mick Abrahams, already ex-Jethro Tull (which he left after This Was) supported by a high-level rhythm section, with the likes of Ron Berg on drums and Andy Pyle on bass, and by Jack Lancaster on winds, the creator of the characteristic Blodwyn Pig sound.

"Getting To This" published in 1970 saw the band even more inclined to expand their influences, always maintaining their signature sound but exploring even further, even reaching the reggae of "To Rassman" a short track written by Berg. "Drive Me" lays the foundation for what will be the atmosphere of the album, guided by a powerful guitar and wind riff, then moving to the more ethereal "Variations on Nainos" where the flute is perhaps an echo of Abrahams' past. "See My Way" is another noteworthy composition, with a direct melody and perhaps one of the band's more commercial tracks. The album flows by alternating between harder moments and softer parts, with the interlude of "Long Bomb Blues" a track composed by Mick with the aid of a slide guitar.

"San Francisco Sketches" is a suite divided into four movements, the author is Lancaster, the flute draws an initial melody and then expands into various settings, reaching an a cappella chorus that precedes a beautiful jazz/rock improvisation. Abrahams is the main songwriter and tracks like "Worry" and "Toys" highlight his ability. The album flows smoothly despite the varied influences, up to the concluding "Send Your Son To Die" led by a powerful guitar and sax riff.

Mick Abrahams also belongs to that group of great guitarists and composers who never received the recognition they deserved.