This is the third and final LP by the British progressive rock band Van Der Graaf Generator, formed in 1967. The line-up consisted of singer and guitarist Peter Hammill, saxophonist, flautist and singer David Jackson, keyboardist, bassist and singer Hugh Banton and drummer Guy Evans. Bassist Nic Potter left the band during the recording sessions due to the excessive touring schedule, but still contributed his bass playing to three tracks. On the remaining two tracks, Banton took over on bass in the studio. The quartet recorded the album in several stages in the mid-1970s at Trident Studios under the direction of producer John Anthony and sound engineer Robin Cable.

Robert Fripp of King Crimson made a guest appearance and played some brilliant guitar solos. The dark progressive rock is extremely intense and full of tension. Even if it gets a little weird at times, this is an integral part of the whole concept. This record is without doubt the highlight of the band’s early creative phase. It was released in December 1970 on the renowned Charisma label with cover art by Paul Whitehead. Unfortunately, despite its professionalism and technical brilliance, it did not receive the attention it deserved. The sombre musical moods and the depressive lyrics by frontman and main composer Peter Hammill apparently stood in the way of wider acceptance.