Galactic Zoo Dossier

Success may have proved too much for Arthur Brown, as his attempts to keep the Crazy World together failed. Along with Drachen Theaker, Brown assembled a new band, provisionally called Puddletown Express, in late 1969. The lineup included saxophonist George Khan, organist Jonah Mitchell, bassist Dennis Taylor and guitarist Andy Rickell, aka “Android Funnel.” A follow-up to the Crazy World was recorded, but ultimately abandoned. (It did see release decades later as Strange Lands, as did the Brown-less Rustic Hinge recordings). Brown then formed Kingdom Come in 1970 with yet another revolving cast, this time involving Dave Ambrose, Rob Tait, Andrew McCulloch, Andy Dalby and Michael “Goodge” Harris. Initial rehearsals from this nascent group were also released decades later. The band-now with Dalby, Harris, Martin “Slim” Steer on drums and Desmond Fisher on bass-held together long enough to record their debut at London’s Olympic and Monmouth’s Rockfield studios. Galactic Zoo Dossier is a highly crafted prog rock classic; and without a doubt, one of the most bizarre albums of the era. The record plays continuously, which should be no surprise; a self-proclaimed “multi-media experience,” the concert stage-with face painting, costumes, props and all-was Kingdom Come’s forte. And the album plays out: “Space Plucks,” co-written with Vincent Crane, contains one of his classic organ hooks, while “Gypsy Escape” illustrates the exceptional musicality of the band. The unmistakable voice of Brown and his R&B influences lend a soulful slant to the proceedings, something rare for English music from this period. Just check out his passionate delivery on “Sunrise.” The album saw release on Polydor in the UK, but despite extensive touring, failed to chart.