Expected release 23/10/26
Skye Records was set up in 1968 by Norman Schwartz, Gabor Szabo, Cal Tjader, and Gary McFarland, and it was on this label that Dreams was released. Harnessing a mystifying, unique sound that pays homage to Szabo's Hungarian folk music heritage, Dreams , as its title suggests, has an otherworldly, ethereal feel and a trance- like quality that is deep and meditative. A masterclass in Eastern European folk meets Western psychedelia, all colliding with jazz, the album features a number of tracks penned by Szabo and Gary McFarland, alongside two interpretations of tracks written by the Spanish composer Manuel de Falla. Additionally, there is an epic cover version of Donovan's 'Ferris Wheel', which was also released as a 7" single at the time the album came out. Other highlights include 'Galatea's Guitar', a cinematic psych- jazz beauty, reminiscent of The Doors in places. The tender 'Half The Day Is Night', with its soothing lullaby texture, features Gary McFarland arrangements at full force. The whole recording is solid all the way through, managing to be easy-listening, but never feeling contrived or saccharine. It has a rich underground spirit bubbling in the background, one recorded for times of relaxation rather than rebellion.
Szabo sadly died at the young age of forty- five while visiting his homeland of Budapest. However, he left a legacy through his exceptional music which still enriches listeners today,and will long continue to do so.
Galatea's Guitar
Half The Day Is Night
Song Of The Injured Love
The Fortune Teller
Fire Dance
The Lady In The Moon (From Kodaly)
Ferris Wheel