Even a crazed Kinks fan such as myself could be forced to admit that the years 1972-1975 were not the band’s best.

Judged purely by the albums they released, it could easily be presumed that Ray Davies had become maniacally self-centered and isolated from his audience. The concept of “Preservation” served as a crutch to support Davies’ megalomania, but put into a live context, this material attracted a cult audience in America at a time when rock music almost demanded some type of conceptualism to make it worthwhile.

To my own taste, “Preservation Act 2” holds up much better than Part 1 simply because you can actually comprehend the concept here. Characters develop and a story actually unfolds on Part 2, as if Part 1 was nothing more than a prelude. Also, appoint that is often forgotten is that “Preservation Act 2” contains some pretty great songs. If you aren’t familiar with it, here’s an opportunity to make up your own mind.

Featured tracks include;

Announcement 1

Introduction to Solution

When a Solution Comes

Money Talks

Announcement 2

Shepherds of the Nation

Scum of the Earth

Second-Hand Car Spiv

He’s Evil

Mirror of Love

Announcement 3

Nobody Gives