Rare Bird (album)

Rare Bird is the eponymous debut album by the British progressive rock band Rare Bird. It was released in November 1969 on the Charisma Records label.

The album is notable for its unconventional lineup, lacking guitars entirely. Instead, it features primarily keyboard-driven instrumentation, with emphasis on organ and electric piano, augmented by bass guitar and drums. This distinct sound set Rare Bird apart from many of their contemporaries in the burgeoning progressive rock scene.

Key tracks on the album include "Sympathy," which became a significant European hit, showcasing the band's melodic sensibilities and emotive vocals. Other notable tracks include "What You Want to Know," "Beautiful Scarlet," and the more experimental "Ice Man."

"Rare Bird" explored a range of musical styles, from ballad-like compositions to more complex, rhythmically driven pieces, reflecting the diverse influences of the band members. The album is often considered a significant early example of progressive rock, highlighting innovative instrumentation and arrangements within the genre. Its success helped establish Rare Bird as a notable act in the British music scene of the early 1970s.