Consortium

Formation and Early Career: Consortium was a British psychedelic rock band formed in 1967 in Birmingham, England. The group initially consisted of members Mick Carless (vocals, guitar), Keith Gemmell (saxophone, flute), Roger Jackson (bass), and Brian Kemp (drums). They emerged during the vibrant psychedelic music scene of the late 1960s, drawing inspiration from bands like Pink Floyd and Soft Machine. Consortium quickly gained a following for their eclectic sound and dynamic live performances.

Musical Style and Influences: Consortium's music was characterized by its experimental blend of psychedelic rock, jazz, and progressive elements. The band incorporated complex arrangements, improvisation, and intricate instrumentation into their songs, creating a distinct and innovative sound. Their music often featured extended instrumental passages, showcasing the virtuosity of each member. Influences from jazz and blues could be heard in their improvisational approach, while psychedelic and progressive elements added a unique psychedelic flavor to their sound.

Recordings and Albums: Consortium released their debut album, "Rebirth", in 1971. The album showcased the band's eclectic style and received positive reviews from critics, although it did not achieve significant commercial success. Despite this, "Rebirth" remains highly regarded among fans of psychedelic and progressive rock. The album features a mix of original compositions and covers, demonstrating Consortium's versatility as musicians. Tracks like "The Day the Train Never Came" and "The Weaver's Answer" exemplify the band's skillful blending of different musical genres and influences.

Legacy and Influence: Although Consortium did not achieve widespread commercial success during their heyday, they left a lasting impact on the psychedelic and progressive rock scene. Their adventurous approach to music-making and willingness to push the boundaries of conventional rock music inspired many other artists and bands in the genre. Consortium's contributions to the evolution of psychedelic and progressive rock continue to be appreciated by fans and musicians alike, with their music enduring through reissues and rediscoveries.

Later Years and Disbandment: After the release of "Rebirth", Consortium continued to perform and record sporadically, but they never achieved the same level of recognition as some of their contemporaries. The band underwent several lineup changes over the years, with Mick Carless being the only constant member. Despite their enduring cult following, Consortium eventually disbanded in the mid-1970s. However, their music continues to be celebrated by fans of psychedelic and progressive rock, ensuring that their legacy lives on in the