Chirco-Visitation (1972)

There's no doubt that for every album reviewed from the obscure and forgotten bands of the '60s and '70s, there are hundreds upon hundreds (if not thousands) of albums and groups lost in the depths of time. This is one of those strange and obscure bands about which we can offer little information today. Hailing from Westchester, near New York, it was led by drummer Tony Chirco and backed by a dozen musicians, including vocalist Anvil Roth, guitarist John Naylor, drummer Ted MacKenzie, bassist Bruce Taylor, and keyboardist Steve Foote. Their only recording, made in a New York studio, is an ambitious and complex album, featuring a dynamic rhythm section with a touch of spirituality, fuzz guitar riffs, interesting arrangements, and a clever blend of rock passages and avant-garde sounds. However, despite the music containing characteristics of progressive rock, with its well-structured and conceptual themes, it never becomes pretentious, incorporating wind instruments that lend it certain jazzy textures and complexities. Ultimately, it's another one of those little gems lost in the vastness of rock music.