Paul Brett Sage

There are two great things about Paul Brett Sage. First is the absolutely brilliant “3D Mona Lisa,” a pulsating, conga-driven rocker. The second is the name of the band’s flautist, Nicky Higginbottom, a truly excellent moniker for just about anyone who plays an instrument. The rest of the band’s debut, first released in 1970 on Pye Records, is a pleasant collection of largely acoustic-based folk rock. The album kicks off with a bang, the aforementioned “3D Mona Lisa” proving to be one of the era’s more promising singles. “Trophies of War” and “Mediterranean Lazy Heat Wave” are like-minded numbers—guitar-heavy pop rock with plenty of melodic hooks and catchy choruses—while “The Sun Died” and “Reason for Your Askin’” are mellower, more introspective affairs. I tend to dislike woodwinds in my rock and roll, but the quartet’s subtle use of the flute on songs like “Little Aztec Prince” and “The Tower” is surprisingly effective. Unlike many of the artists featured here at The "I-Own-Every-Record-You’d-Never-Buy” CD Consumer’s Guide, Paul Brett Sage was not a one-album studio project. Two additional lps didn’t enhance the band’s commercial fortunes, however, and they broke up in 1972.

Notes: I’m of the opinion that “3D Mona Lisa” should have been a huge hit. Decide for yourself: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKnxzEm5eTY. Also, check out the band’s MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/paulbrettssage. Recommended: “Little Aztec Prince” from the self-titled debut and “Custom Angel Man” from Schizophrenia (1972).