Limited Edition 3CD Set all housed in a CD sized hardback sleeve with booklet.
Clouds were a highly influential Scottish prog-rock band formed in Edinburgh in the mid-1960s.
Under their original name 1-2-3, the band gained attention in London’s underground scene, especially at The Marquee Club in 1967.
Their sound was ahead of its time, melding classical, jazz, and rock influences with no lead guitarist, and Billy Ritchie taking centre stage on keyboards.
Ritchie’s flamboyant, frontman- style organ work would later inspire keyboardists like Keith Emerson.
In 1968, under the guidance of Brian Epstein’s NEMS agency and Terry Ellis (who would go on to co-found Chrysalis), they changed their name to Clouds.
They were the first band signed to Chrysalis Records and were early architects of progressive rock, predating many better-known acts of the genre.
Though short-lived, Clouds are now seen as pioneers of the progressive rock movement.
Their innovative structure, particularly Ritchie’s role as a lead keyboardist, helped pave the way for bands like
Yes, ELP, and Genesis.
Clouds “Once Upon A Time – The Collection” features the band’s first three studio albums: “Scrapbook” (1969), “Watercolour Days” (1971), and the US-only release “Up Above Our Heads”.
The collection essentially compiles the band’s early work, showcasing their blend of psychedelic pop and progressive rock elements.
Scrapbook (1969):
This album, the band’s debut, is known for its psychedelic pop sound with early progressive rock influences.
Watercolour Days (1971):
The second album, “Watercolour Days,” demonstrates a more refined and mature sound compared to their debut.
Up Above Our Heads:
This album was released only in the US, adding a unique piece to the collection for international listeners.
Essentially, the collection provides a comprehensive look at the band’s early development, from their psychedelic beginnings to their more polished sound.
At the centre of the package is a booklet featuring new essays from all three original band members: Billy Ritchie, Ian Ellis and Harry Hughes along with never-before-seen photographs and rare ephemera.
All housed in a CD sized hardback sleeve with
booklet.
