Murphy Blend-First Loss (1971)

Murphy Blend was the band responsible for one of the best albums released on the legendary German label Kuckuck, a subsidiary of Polydor. This quartet consisted of Wolf-Rodiger Uhlig (organ, keyboards, and vocals), Wolfgang Rumler (guitar and vocals), Andreas Scholz (bass), and Achim Schmidt (drums). "First Loss" was recorded at Union Studios in Munich between October and December 1970. On this single album, Murphy Blend showcased a masterful fusion in which Uhlig used his keyboards to incorporate classical themes into his heavy progressive style, undoubtedly influenced by his three years of studying classical music at the Berlin Conservatory. The songs were melodic, textured by strong guitar and organ riffs. The album contained six original tracks (mostly written by Uhlig). It's difficult to single out highlights, as all the material is truly superb, from the opening track "At First" to the brilliant "Speed ​​Is Coming Back", a dramatic cut of blues guitars and dark organ, and the chilling "Past Has Gone", which closes out a superb first side. Opening the second side, we find "Prädudium/Use Your Feet", perhaps the track that best showcases their classical influences, while the title track is a tour de force that provides ample opportunity for all the band members to shine instrumentally. The album ends with "Funny Guys", a kind of tribute to John Sebastian Bach, which adds a touch of color to this phenomenal work by these German musicians. Unfortunately, Murphy Blend disbanded shortly after recording this album. Later, Andreas Scholz participated in the progressive group Blackwater Park in 1971, while Wolf-Rudiger Uhlig would do so as a guest musician on the third album of the legendary German band Frumpy, "By The Way", in 1972.