BBC Radio 1 Live In Concert

This concert finds Caravan just prior to recording their sixth studio package, the spoonerism-inspired title Cunning Stunts (1975). Co-founders Pye Hastings (guitar/vocals), David Sinclair (keyboards), and Richard Coughlan (drums) are joined by For Girls Who Grow Plump in the Night (1973) era addition Geoffrey Richardson (violin/guitar) and former Curved Air member Mike Wedgwood (bass) for a live taping of BBC Radio 1's In Concert program at the Paris Theater on March 21, 1975. After a short spoken introduction from BBC Radio host Pete Drummond, Caravan commence their roughly hourlong/four-song set with an energized reading of the Waterloo Lily (1972) suite "The Love in Your Eye." Although the arrangement doesn't stray too far, the jamming is unquestionably inspired, with Richardson and Hastings switching blistering solos throughout. The bandmembers likewise demonstrate their trademark flair for dramatic dynamics, especially during Coughlan's brief but impressive concluding contributions. "For Richard" -- the most senior entry, dating back to If I Could Do It All Over Again, I'd Do It All Over You (1970) -- is taken at a noticeably accelerated tempo. Richardson's sinuous violin and Sinclair's moody synthesizer give the update an indescribably ethereal vibe. Looking forward, "The Dabsong Conshirtoe" would surface as the centerpiece of the previously alluded to Cunning Stunts long-player. The multi-movement epic is a perfect outlet for Richardson's hearty leads that, when traded with Hastings' fretwork, provide a lovely pastoral quality to the longer instrumental passages. Sinclair tastefully weaves some well-chosen keyboard textures that enhance, rather than distract, from the complex melody. "Hoedown" dips into the For Girls Who Grow Plump in the Night tune stack for a suitably energetic closer. The propulsive syncopation is no problem for the band, which effortlessly maneuvers through the tricky time signatures. Short but sweet, Live in Concert (1991) demonstrates what a strong band the mid-'70s incarnation of Caravan continued to be, and is a highly recommended spin for enthusiasts and the curious alike. ~ Lindsay Planer