Although generally regarded as one of
the Incredible String Band's sub-standard efforts,
Changing Horses has an appealing looseness and sense of fun which nicely balances the often over-serious nature of the band's always strange mix of English folk and psycheldelia. With two tracks topping the 15-minute mark in length, some of the record comes off like a rambling, drunken living room jam session. This version of
the Incredible String Band includes two women, Rose and Liquorice, who add some nice, high vocal harmonies to the standard
Mike Heron/
Robin Williamson sound. Rose also contributes some nice tuba-influenced electric bass work throughout the album.
Changing Horses has a distinct lack of memorable songs (with the possible exception of
Williamson's "Mr. and Mrs.," which, because of its raw production, organ and guitar work, bears a striking resemblance at times to
the Velvet Underground) but, due to the group's willingness to take chances, bears repeated listenings. ~ Pemberton Roach