Shady Grove 1969 Album

Quicksilver Messenger Service

For the third release famed journeyman session piano player Nicky Hopkins fills in for the departed Gary Duncan and becomes a new focal point for the Quicksilver sound, as he would stay in the group for a few more albums after this one. Truth be told, it's a rather patched-together affair, with songs from friendly outside sources used (Nick Gravenites and Denise Kaufman from all-female band the Ace of Cups, who had the same management as QMS), but even with the new elements it still retains some of the mysterious feel from the first two records. Plus, it adds in Hopkins' prodigious musicianship. His "Edward, the Mad Shirt Grinder" brings a final curtain call down on the album in entertaining fashion.