Clouds Once Upon A Time - The Collection (3-CD)

Clouds was an influential Scottish prog rock band formed in Edinburgh in the mid-1960s. Under their original name, 1-2-3, the band gained attention on the London underground scene, particularly at the Marquee Club in 1967. Their sound was ahead of its time, combining influences from classical, jazz, and rock, without a lead guitarist, with Billy Ritchie taking center stage on keyboard. Ritchie's flamboyant, frontman-like organ playing later inspired keyboardists such as Keith Emerson.
In 1968, under the guidance of Brian Epstein's agency NEMS and Terry Ellis (who later co-founded Chrysalis), they changed their name to Clouds. They were the first band to be signed to Chrysalis Records and were among the early pioneers of progressive rock, even before many better-known acts in the genre. Although they only existed for a short time, Clouds are now considered pioneers of the progressive rock movement. Their innovative structure, particularly Ritchie's role as lead keyboardist, paved the way for bands such as Yes, ELP, and Genesis.
Once Upon A Time – The Collection: Includes their three studio albums, The Clouds Scrapbook (1969), the band's debut album combining psychedelic pop with early progressive rock elements, Watercolour Days (1971), their second album presenting a more refined sound, and the album Up Above Our Heads (1970), released only in the US.
The set includes 23 previously unreleased tracks from the archives, as well as a wealth of additional rare material. With singles, B-sides, and previously unreleased demos, it provides a complete picture of the band's short but influential career.
At the heart of the set is a booklet featuring new essays by all three original band members: Billy Ritchie, Ian Ellis, and Harry Hughes, along with previously unreleased photos and rare ephemera. The whole thing is housed in a CD-sized hardcover case with a booklet.