Axcraft was a mid-'70s band from California around whom legends were built. Originally recorded for Bill Holmes' All American Records label, Dancing Madly Backwards was never officially released but an acetate of the album made its way onto the collector's market, causing quite a stir. The sound of the band was progressive hard rock and many who heard it thought they were a British band. In the genre of such bands as Yes, Gentle Giant, Strawbs, Wishbone Ash, or many more similarly styled acts, Axcraft is now set to take its place in music history with the first legitimate release of this album through Akarma Records.
Contained here are the original five songs (all clocking in at over five minutes!) from the album, together with two bonus live tracks recorded by the band themselves during their heyday. Officially sanctioned by band members and taken from original tapes supplied by band producer Bill Holmes, who also designed the album cover from original designs, this album is a must for any fans of the '70s progressive music. A superb album, it has finally been made available for all to hear and realize what the excitement was all about.
by Keith Pettipas
Tracks
1. So Far Away (C. Austin) - 6:13
2. Astral Love (Dan Gerard) - 7:05
3. 727 Suite (Michael Carroll) - 6:39
4. Firewheel (Paul Skylar) - 5:39
5. Dancing Madly Backwards (Dan Gerard) - 9:09
6. Vahalla (Byron Daugherty) - 7:42
7. Love Is Blue (Byron Daugherty) - 5:20
Axcraft
*Jim McClellan - Lead Vocals
*Dan Gerard - Lead Guitar
*Paul Skylar - Rhythm Guitar
*Randy Ballard - Keyboards
*Michael Carroll - Bass
*Gary Gossett - Drums