Proud, Pip
A Bird In The Engine
In the late 60s, Pip Proud recorded two of the oddest records ever to come out of Australia: 'Adreneline & Richard' and 'A Bird In The Engine', before vanishing into obscurity for the better part of three decades. Often called the "Australian Syd Barrett," Proud actually released his second album in 1969, a year prior to 'The Madcap Laughs', and developed his indigenous psychedelia in virtual isolation. 'A Bird In The Engine' is even more rare than his debut. From the extraordinary 'Eagle-Wise' to the remarkable title track (which includes the uncredited performance of a friend hitting a cardboard box with a microphone), Proud's unrestrained genius is laid bare, a delicate tension of simple melodies and maddening form. While other compilations of Proud's music have been released in recent years, this is the first time 'A Bird In The Engine' has been reissued in its original format. Recommended for fans of Alvarius B., Donovan and Jandek.