Systems of Romance

Here’s a little something different for any more open-minded readers of the blog. I’ve flirted with ambient and neofolk-esque material before on these back pages (mainly by way of Les Joyaux de la Princesse), but haven’t develed in completely. But here’s a rare pioneering gem from a band that predates the movement, and serves as a huge inspiration to any future projects, especially Current 93.

Comus formed in England, taking their name from both a Greek God and respective John Milton piece. The band received an early boost from David Bowie, who picked the band to open for the singer back in 1969. Two years later, the Comus’ debut album, First Utterance appeared. Blending psychedelic music with folk rock, and adding a bit of dark edge, the band has since inspired the likes of Current 93 (who covered the album’s opener and single) as well as a legion of Black Metal bands.

Comus released one more record before disbanding. Released three years later, it was a far more commercial, yet still captivating affair. However, the band has since reunited in 2009, and are planning to release a new record as soon as it is completed.

With that said, here’s the information for the band’s haunting 1971 debut.

Comus- First Utterance LP
1. Diana
2. The Herald
3. Drip Drip
4. Song to Comus
5. The Bite
6. Bitten
7. The Prisoner

*download it here*

This entry was posted on May 11, 2009 at 6:32 pm and is filed under 1960s, 1970s, 1971, comus, freak folk, neo-folk, psychedelic, reformed . You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.