SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: NORMAN GREENBAUM – SPIRIT IN THE SKY

NORMAN GREENBAUM
SPIRIT IN THE SKY
CRAFT RECORDINGS

In 1967, a band with the unusual yet era appropriate name of Dr. West’s Medicine Show and Junk Band had a minor hit with the novelty song “The Eggplant That Ate Chicago” (it lives up to its title). One of the members of that band, Norman Greenbaum, would leave the band and go solo in 1969 and release his debut album that year. The album Spirit In The Sky was, in many ways, typical of the music of the day, country influenced psychedelic rock ‘n’ roll. But one song stuck out and became a worldwide number one hit. “Spirit In The Sky” is the song that turns up on the radio, in movies, TV shows, really everywhere. And it is that rare song that, no matter how many times you hear it, it still moves you and you can’t help but dig that distinct guitar sound.

Greenbaum is a talented artist and the album Spirit In The Sky is full of great songs. Some of them are pure pop, such as the exquisite “Alice Bodine”, which is perfectly arranged and produced. Elsewhere, songs like “Tars Of India” has a bit more of a psychedelic feel to it, with one foot in country music. Like Grateful Dead and Canned Heat, it works. Then a song like “The Power” that has a wonderful Stax horn arrangement. And some songs bring a smile to your face, like “Good Lookin’ Woman” and “Milk Cow”.

Erik Jacobsen (known for his work with Tim Hardin and who would go on to produce Chris Isaak) seemed to understand Greenbaum’s vision and although the album is influenced by the California music scene of the time, the album has a distinct sound. The songs are somewhat bare and not overproduced. Greenbaum has a great voice and never overdoes it or under plays the song. He made sure that the album was contemporary for its time, which means it sounds a little dated today. But that is more than fine, as the album sounds great.

But it is the title track that most people know. “Spirit In The Sky” with obvious Christian overtones, was influenced by a Porter Wagoner television special. There are few rock songs as perfect as “Spirit In The Sky”. The guitar, the driving beat, the beautiful backing vocals, and Greenbaum’s earnest vocals. Oddly enough, Greenbaum was never able to meet the critical or commercial success of that song. This is surprising when one listens to this album, he has talent and can certainly write memorable songs.

Spirit In The Sky has never really been out of print. It has been available on CD for many decades. But the album on vinyl has become scarce and hard to find. Craft Recordings has rectified that and has released this new beautiful vinyl re-release. The title track is also available in stunning Dolby Atmos. Craft Recordings has gone back to the original master, analogue tapes, and as a result the album sounds fantastic while maintaining its original form and sound. Greenbaum is still performing and still enjoying the success of this album and the single. Craft Recordings has provided people with the opportunity to hear and experience the album as it was intended.

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