Prodigal

Description

Prodigal is an album by the British garage rock band The Gospelfolk, released on Emblem Records in 1969. The album was recorded by band members Walter Paterson and John McLarty at Emblem Sound Studios with McLarty producing.

The Gospelfolk features John (John McLarty) on vocal and rhythm guitar; Walter (Walter Paterson) on vocals, bass and rhythm guitar; Billy (William C. Campbell) on vocals, lead guitar and bass; Edmund on vocals, bass and organ; and William (William Dickson) on percussion.

All about a young man who left his father – To see the bright lights and join the big time – How he spent all his money on wine and loose women – How he’s come home without a dime – His pop says give him a coat and a ring for his finger – Empty the ice box and call his friends – Let’s all have a party forgive and forget – Young man your home I thought you were dead

This is a selection of music played by The Gospelfolk. It may challenge you, make you think, or, turn you on.

The songs on this album have been written by the group and during the last two years have been used in live performances in youth clubs etc. in Central Scotland. We dedicate this album to those people who have given us their support throughout that time.

(Our special thanks to the Catacomb Club Bellshill where the front cover photograph for this sleeve was taken) [Excerpt from the sleevenotes]

A major ‘60s garage/psych rarity here. Even the embarrassingly inept Emblem production values cannot stifle the raw punk enthusiasm of these five young men from Scotland. Within the genre that includes the likes of Them, The Troggs, The Chocolate Watch Band, The Standells, and all those other bands that appear on Nuggets compilations, The Gospelfolk have provided a solid Christian response. A track by track analysis is in order here. The title cut uses a classic ‘60s punk Farfisa organ motif as it tells the story of the prodigal son’s return. The psychy raw fuzz and dissonant organ of «Emily» follows, sounding like Velvet Underground playing in your closet with the door shut. The massive reverb of «No Sad Tomorrow» makes it a garage rocker’s dream, while «Be In Time»’s savage fuzz riff comes across as a sanctified electric «Wild Thing». «Cosmopolitan World» is swinging jangly pop, then on to the rudimentary basement jam of «Thank You Lord». What remains are the album’s four ballads and oddly enough the strongest cuts on the LP, all vibrant with the warmth of raw electric guitars, solemn organ, and endearing harmonies. Exceedingly rare with a couple copies having sold for over $1200. Wonderful cover of the band playing in some cheesy hole-in-the ground. [Ken Scott, The Archivist, 4th Edition]

LP tracklist:

Side One
A1. “Prodigal”
A2. “Emily”
A3. “Forever”
A4. “No Sad Tomorrow”
A5. “Someone Who Cares”

Side Two
B1. “Cosmopolitan World”
B2. “This Love”
B3. “Thank You Lord”
B4. “What Have I Done?”
B5. “Be In Time”

Note: Exceedingly rare, limited to a pressing of 99 copies a couple having sold for over $1200. The album cover shows the band playing at The Catacomb Coffee Bar in Bellshill.

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