Following the release of several singles and a tour as the support act for The Who in 1969, the band Gracious were signed by Vertigo Records a year later. They recorded their debut album Gracious! (also known as the „Exclamation Mark“ album) in February/March at Philips Studios in London, co-produced by the band and Hugh Murphy (Diabolus, Stray, Jody Grind...). The band consisted of Paul Davis (voc, g), Martin Kitcat (mell, p, hrp, voc), Alan Cowderoy (g, voc), Tim Wheatley (b) and Robert Lipson (dr).
Their first LP was released in July 1970 and became an early British prog classic. Much of the music is quite complex, featuring a varied use of piano, harpsichord and Hohner electric piano. Added to this are Alan Cowderoy’s occasionally psychedelic guitar work and Robert Lipson’s jazzy drumming. Paul Davis contributes harmonious vocal passages in the typical British prog style of the early 70s. A rare Swirl classic and a truly impressive progressive rock album with a simple yet ingenious design by Colin Fulcher!
