 genre: prog
country: switzerland
audio: lossless (ape, cue, log, scans)
time: 44'32" size: 257 mb
Crack in the Cosmic Egg:
From Basle, Switzerland, Circus were one of the key bands in Swiss prog history. Ideally situated near the French and German borders, Circus had much success in Europe, with three studio albums and a document of them in concert (featuring many guest from other top Swiss bands).
Formed in 1972, Circus took time to refine and hone their style, a complex rock with jazz and classical angles, and a rather unique instrumentation. Yes, remarkably, Circus played rock music without any electric guitars or keyboards, instead they used processed bass guitar and wind instruments. Undoubtedly, they were influenced by British progressive rock of the late-1960's/early-1970's, with references to Jethro Tull, King Crimson and (especially in the instrumentation) Van der Graaf Generator.
Their debut was a promising first step, though it didn't quite reveal their potential, being a mite over lyrical. MOVIN' ON however, has become regarded as their classic, featuring lengthy tracks, with complex arrangements, dynamics, superb instrumentals and unusually crafted songs. With this they defined their own style, which was more than the sum of their influences.
The live album, featuring numerous top Swiss talents as guests, featured a whole new set of material, and a move to more rock based works. Two years on, and with a more conventional instrumentation (notably a keyboard player, who joined during earlier live recordings), the third studio album FEARLESS, TEARLESS & EVEN LESS (sans Greidler's King Crimson cum Jethro Tull touches) took them closer to the symphonic prog of Genesis realms.
Circus, later transmuted into Blue Motion. Marco Cerletti now makes jazz and ethnic fusion, playing the Chapman Stick. Fritz Hauser moved into experimental percussion and modern jazz realms.
01. The Bandsman 4:28
02. Laughter Lane 4:13
03. Loveless Time 5:34
04. Dawn 7:54
05. Movin' On 22:23
Fritz Hauser (drums, vibes, percussion)
Marco Cerletti (bass, pedals, 12-string guitar, vocals)
Andreas Grieder (flutes, tambourine, alto saxophone, vocals)
Roland Frei (vocals, acoustic guitar, tenor saxophone)
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