Happy The Man-Crafty Hands (1978)

"Crafty Hands" was the second release from the American progressive rock band Happy The Man, and along with their debut album, it is considered one of the masterpieces of American avant-garde rock. If their previous album had already demonstrated their impressive talent, with this second album, the band, led by keyboardist Kit Watkins, indisputably confirmed that status. In addition to Watkins, the rest of the band consisted of Stanley Whitaker (guitars), Ron Riddle (drums), Rick Kennell (bass), and Frank Wyatt (keyboards and wind instruments). However, here they present a work that is even more balanced, expansive, and contemporary than its predecessor, with complex instrumentations synchronized with constant rhythmic shifts. Despite the virtuosity of all its members, the sound is mainly dominated by the guitar, especially the opening track "Service With A Smile", the Crimson-esque "I Forget To Push It", the vocal track "Wind Up Doll Day Wind", the tremendously relaxing "Morning Sun", the haunting and introspective "The Moon, I Sing" or the heir to the Canterbury sounds "Open Book".