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Rating: Released only in 1991, more than twenty years after the breakup of the Chicago band, the live album I'm about to review represents the most significant release of the band, which ceased to exist after only two studio albums.
Founded in 1967 by George Edwards, H.P. Lovecraft draws its name from the famous writer, bringing his mystical themes into several songs. The quintet showcases a psychedelic sound, enhanced by two splendid voices and a complex organ work.
"Live May 11, 1968" begins with an arrangement by Edwards of the traditional "Wayfaring Strangers", which exceeds 10 minutes of improvisation, allowing a glimpse of the album's overall vibe and the group's mystical attitude. It is followed by the covers "The Drifter" and "It's About Time", the latter being one of the best tracks on the album. At this point, the band reveals its Lovecraftian nature with "The White Ship", the most representative song composed by the group and a true masterpiece, inspired by the writer from Providence's tale, and "At The Mountains of Madness", which features interesting bass work.
The record then proceeds with another three covers (two by Fred Neil and one by Randy Newman), not as interesting as the previous tracks but still fully enjoyable, then the journey through the depths of the Lovecraftian universe ends.
In conclusion, this live is a small masterpiece, deserving at least a couple of listens, a testament to a little-known band yet capable of evoking atmospheres worthy of the writer it is inspired by.
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