I only know Roy Harper from his guest vocal contributions to Pink Floyd’s “Have a Cigar” and Led Zeppelin dedicating “Hats Off to (Roy) Harper” from their third album to him. Of course, I know of him, but I've never consciously listened to his records. “Sophisticated Beggar” is his debut album, and it had its 45th anniversary this year. It is beautiful, often dreamy, acoustic music by just one man and guitar backing. And, it has aged well. It doesn’t sit alongside some of those hippie folk records of the ’60s that clearly belonged in that time and sound dated today. Roy Harper’s songs are as timeless as those by Simon & Garfunkel. They even are reminiscent of them, but cut out the pop music side, concentrating on the meditative side instead. Harper’s wonderful, evocative lyrics are backed by the excellent guitar picking of Bert Jansch, among others. At times, Harper is a bit reminiscent of his contemporary and also folk singer, Donovan. “October Twelfth” simply must have been Roger Waters’ inspiration for “Grantchester Meadows” (off "Ummagumma”). “Mr Station Master” and “Committed” include a backing band, while the other songs are just guitar and Harper’s distinct voice. A true folk rock gem that should not be overlooked any longer.

by artistxite