The non-LP single "Scene Through the Eye of a Lens" b/w "Gypsy Woman" not withstanding,
Music in a Doll's House (1968) is the debut full-length release from the earliest incarnation of
Family, featuring
Roger Chapman (harmonica/tenor sax/vocals),
Rick Grech (violin/ cello/bass guitar/vocals), Rob Townsend (percussion/drums), John "Charlie" Whitney (guitar/pedal steel guitar/keyboards), and Jim King (harmonica/keyboards/soprano sax/tenor sax/vocals). Their highly original sound has often been compared to
Traffic, which may be in part due to the production skills of
Jimmy Miller and
Dave Mason, the latter also contributing the organic and rootsy rocker "Never Like This." Additionally, neither band was overtly psychedelic or progressive, contrasting them from the other burgeoning combos such as
Soft Machine,
Pink Floyd, and
Caravan.
Family's deceptively involved arrangements are coupled with an equally unique blend of
Chapman's commanding vocals driving through the jazz and folk-rooted tunes. "The Chase" is a spirited opener that immediately establishes their unmistakable vibe, which is furthered on the sides "Old Songs for New Songs" and the aggressive rocker "Peace of Mind." The antithesis can be heard on the rural-flavored "Mellowing Grey" and "Winter," or perhaps the almost blatantly trippy "See Through Windows." In 1996, See for Miles issued
Music in a Doll's House along with Family Entertainment (1969) on a double-disc anthology, including the previously mentioned pre-LP 7" "Scene Through the Eye of a Lens" b/w "Gypsy Woman," both of which have been released on compact disc for the first time here. The package additionally boasts a 40-page booklet and hardback CD jacket, while the audio has been digitally remastered utilizing Super Bit Mapping. ~ Lindsay Planer