T Rex Expanded Edition

The album sits, somewhat uncomfortably, between the last Tyrannosaurus Rex album, 'Beard of Stars' and the T.Rex rocker 'Electric Warrior'. As such, it is difficult to describe. Certainly the production is far more polished than 'Beard' but, at the same time, many of the tracks are rather sparse and intimate. However, taken on its own merits, rather than in comparison to, this is a great album. I particularly like the softer songs 'The Visit', 'The Time of Love is Now', 'Root of Star' and 'Suneye'. Bolan's lyrics are much clearer than the earlier stuff. On the downside, I don't like either of the re-worked tracks 'One Inch Rock' or 'The Wizard' (far too long). Also, what has happened to the beginning of 'Childe'? Numerous bonus tracks are included on this re-master - 'Ride a White Swan' plus its b-side, the definitive version of 'Summertime Blues', make it worthwhile. I am however unconvinced that the re-mastered version here sounds that great (it's all a bit hard and congested compared to the old vinyl, especially 'Swan' - although this sounds equally poor on the boxed set). If you're new to Bolan, this probably isn't the best place to start - it's not a 'pop' album. But it is an essential album, its highlights being some of the best songs Bolan ever wrote.