What makes First Utterance by Comus notable?

This album has gained a cult following over the years, particularly for its bold thematic content and musical complexity. It has influenced numerous artists within the progressive rock genre and beyond, often cited in discussions about pioneering British underground music. Its reissue in later decades further solidified its status as an essential artifact of early '70s experimental rock. First Utterance is Comus's debut album, released in 1971 when the band was still establishing their identity within the burgeoning progressive rock scene. The album emerged as a unique fusion of folk influences and avant-garde experimentation, setting the stage for their distinct style. This record marked the beginning of a short but impactful career for the band.

How many songs are on First Utterance?

First Utterance has 7 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

First Utterance

Comus · 1971

49 min · 7 tracks · progressive rock

Darkly theatrical soundscapes blend folk and progressive rock with unsettling lyrics and haunting melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Diana — The opening track sets a haunting tone with its delicate yet eerie vocals, immediately drawing listeners into the album's dark narrative world.
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The Herald — This lengthy piece showcases the band's ability to blend complex arrangements with storytelling, illustrating both musical virtuosity and lyrical depth.
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Drip Drip — With its unsettling atmosphere and rhythmic shifts, this track epitomizes Comus's unique sound, merging folk-inspired melodies with darker themes.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Diana 4:36
2 The Herald 12:14
3 Drip Drip 10:55
4 Song to Comus 7:31
5 The Bite 5:26
6 Bitten 2:15
7 The Prisoner 6:15

What to play next

Listen next

To Keep from Crying

1974

Full Comus discography Artists like Comus

progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata