Procol Harum

Overview

Procol Harum is a British rock band known for their distinctive sound and significant contributions to the progressive rock and symphonic rock genres throughout the 1960s and beyond. They are best known for their 1967 single 'A Whiter Shade of Pale,' which is considered one of the defining moments of the Summer of Love and has remained an enduring classic rock staple. The band was formed in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, England, in 1967. Over the years, Procol Harum underwent several lineup changes, but the core of their sound has remained consistent, blending classical influences with rock music. Their music often features poetic and surreal lyrics, orchestrated arrangements, and the distinctive voice of lead singer Gary Brooker. Despite the changes in personnel, Procol Harum has consistently maintained a devoted fan base and influenced numerous artists across multiple genres.

Formation and Early Years

Procol Harum was initially formed in 1967 by Gary Brooker, who had previously been part of the group The Paramounts. Seeking to create a new project with a more distinguished sound, Brooker established the band with lyricist Keith Reid, organist Matthew Fisher, guitarist Robin Trower, bassist David Knights, and drummer B.J. Wilson. The band’s name, suggested by their manager Guy Stevens, was taken from a friend's Burmese cat, which was said to mean 'beyond these things,' although this meaning has been contested. Their debut single, 'A Whiter Shade of Pale,' was released in 1967 and quickly rose to international fame due in part to its Baroque-inspired organ melody and enigmatic lyrics. This unexpected hit laid the foundation for their early success and helped establish the band's reputation as pioneers of a new musical era.

Career Highlights

Following the success of 'A Whiter Shade of Pale,' Procol Harum released their eponymous debut album later in 1967, which included the hit single. The band's second release, 'Shine On Brightly,' came out in 1968 and marked a departure towards a more progressive rock sound, featuring extended compositions and elaborate orchestrations. One of the album's highlights was the 17-minute 'In Held 'Twas in I,' which is one of the earliest examples of a rock suite. Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, Procol Harum continued to release albums that achieved critical acclaim, such as 'A Salty Dog' (1969) and 'Home' (1970). The band's music evolved during this period, with lineup changes bringing new influences and directions. Despite various hiatus periods and lineup changes over the years, Procol Harum has continually toured and released music, maintaining a legacy that endures to this day. In 2017, they celebrated their 50th anniversary with the release of a new album titled 'Novum.'

Musical Style

Procol Harum's musical style is characterized by its blending of classical music influences with rock, creating a sophisticated sound that set them apart from many of their contemporaries. This has often placed them in the same category as progressive and symphonic rock bands, although they have also included elements of blues and proto-prog in their music. Their incorporation of orchestral elements, particularly the use of the Hammond organ and elaborate instrumental passages, contributed to a distinctive soundscape that was both innovative and influential. Keith Reid's lyrics often conveyed imagery and narratives that were poetic in nature, adding a layer of intellectualism to their music. The interplay between Brooker's piano and vocals and Trower's guitar work also became a defining feature of their early sound. Procol Harum's ability to merge these elements has not only contributed to their enduring popularity but also to their reputation as pioneers in their genre.

Most Important Albums

'A Whiter Shade of Pale' may have been their groundbreaking single, but Procol Harum's albums like 'Shine On Brightly' and 'A Salty Dog' truly captured the breadth of their artistry. 'Shine On Brightly' showcased the band's propensity towards progressive rock with its expanded song structures and revolutionary use of the studio as a creative tool. Meanwhile, 'A Salty Dog' is often lauded for its ambitious orchestral arrangements and thematic depth. The album contains a title track that has become a fan favorite, evidencing the band's unique ability to combine accessible melodies with complex musical ideas. Their fifth studio album, 'Broken Barricades,' was the last to feature guitarist Robin Trower and illustrated a shift towards a more guitar-centered rock approach while maintaining their signature symphonic signature. Each album represents a stage in their evolution and highlights different aspects of their diverse musical capabilities.

Legacy and Influence

Procol Harum's influence can be deeply seen in the evolution of rock music, especially in the progressive rock genre. Their success with 'A Whiter Shade of Pale' positioned them as innovative leaders during a transformative period in popular music. Bands such as Genesis, Yes, and King Crimson have cited Procol Harum as an influence, particularly in their use of arrangement and thematic exploration. The band's longevity, despite the changing tides of the music industry, has allowed them to continually attract new generations of fans. Their commitment to musical integrity and exploration has also earned them respect among musicians and critics alike. Moreover, 'A Whiter Shade of Pale' has achieved an iconic status that transcends generations, having been covered by countless artists across a variety of genres. The timelessness of Procol Harum's music ensures that their legacy will continue to be celebrated for years to come.