Recordings

Released as a semi stopgap collection in mid-2001 during a period of general inactivity, outside of some concert appearances here and there, compiles the various B-sides and extra tracks from singles taken from and , adding a couple of unreleased goodies as well. It's obviously for the hardcore fans more than anyone else -- those wanting an introduction to the band will find it of interest but not the best place to start. Those hardcore fans, though, will find it a very enjoyable release, with the previously unavailable songs of definite interest. which starts the album, is one of the band's subtler epics, an eleven-minute number with all the multitracked vocals and wistfully burnt imagery any fan of classic English prog could want. originally planned for itself, is (in part) a wonderfully jaunty little number which could have come from mid-eighties , 's contributions on hammered dulcimer an inspired touch. The remaining tracks reappear from the various singles, though sometimes in different form. originally surfacing as a demo, gets a full instrumental band version here, while the majestic opening blast from , turns up in its full fourteen minute length, the second part having only appeared before on a separate single. The full features past guests the , both of whom also turn up on an unexpectedly successful fusion of everything from heavy tribal drumming to saxophone. There's an attractive range of stylistic experimentation on display with the various B-sides and extra numbers, ranging from the minimal, near-ambient exploration of to the building rocker ~ Ned Raggett