The English band Dr. Z was formed in London in 1969 as a quartet. After an unsuccessful single, they shifted their musical style in early 1971 towards keyboard-dominated progressive rock. They continued as a trio led by keyboardist and singer Keith Keyes, who also holds a doctorate in music, alongside bassist Rob Watson and Bob Watkins on drums. They secured a record deal with the legendary Vertigo label and recorded their only album that same year at London’s Island Studios, produced by Patrick Campbell-Lyons. It impressively showcases the individuality and musical quality of the three musicians: Keith Keyes’ virtuosity on the keyboards, Rob Watson’s inventive bass playing and Bob Watkins’ technically brilliant drumming.

The core concept of the lyrics consists of an occult philosophy concerning the soul, which is divided into three parts after death: Spiritus, Manes and Umbra. Spiritus represents the good, ascending to heaven, Manes is the evil, descending into the underworld and Umbra is the shadow, which remains on earth as a spirit. The beautiful design of the elaborate three-part gimmix fold-out cover was created by Colin Fulcher (aka Barney Bubbles). Reportedly, only 80 copies of this keyboard-heavy progressive album were sold by Vertigo. That probably makes Three Parts To My Soul one of the hardest releases to find on the Swirl label. But it is a great album!