Crow (10)

CROW is a tribal psych/space band from Whitstable/Kent, formed in the early 1990s. Their recordings from 1992/93 were only released on cassette in limited numbers which makes them sought-after collectors' items. The band had a classic minimalistic line-up with guitar/vocals (Chris Clark), bass (Mike Ashbee) and drums (Martin Steadman) supported by Mark Dixon who contributes some Didgeridoo. One live and two studio cassette albums were recorded. 'Medicine Wheel' (1992) with the standout track 'Conditioning' has Hawkwind/Ozric Tentacles leanings based on a strong wah-wah and delay guitar technique and tribal drums. 'The Tides Of Apsaroke' (1993) with a clearer production is devided in two parts with more defined contrasts between heavier and atmospheric moments. CROW gigs became legendary for the collaborations with the Fire-Jugglers of the Kent Circus School who provided stirring visual accompaniment to the hypnotic rhythms. Plans to record a CD failed unfortunately. The band played their last live performance in September 1995 at the Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone and split afterwards, after which the members continued in other bands. CROW reformed in 2008 to play on a private birthday party and there are also plans for a tribute show to their former promoter Brian Steele at the Leas Cliff Hall. Hopefully the band will decide to continue and to reissue their songs on CD or vinyl soon.