Classical Composer Reacts to In Held 'Twas In I (Procol Harum) | The Daily Doug (Episode 573) 

The entire album, Shine On Brightly, and their follow-up album, A Salty Dog, are masterpieces.

Gary Brooker, the co-composer and vocalist with Fisher, passed away just last year. Keith Reid, the lyricist passed away last month. RIP both. What a tremendous musical legacy from this team.

There are many Procol Harum fans, 65 years old & beyond, that really appreciate this one, and I would count myself among them.

The "Grand Finale" section was written by organist Matthew Fisher, and borrows slightly (primarily from the first four bars) from the Minuet in J.A. Haydn's Piano Sonata No 26 in A major (1773).

This has always been one of the most breathtakingly beautiful pieces of music I've ever heard in my life. The band has performed it live many many times over the years and given this piece a legacy of amazing beauty and creativity that is unparalleled. It has always been one of the most meaningful pieces of music to me in my life and I never grow weary of hearing it. Very nice job on your reaction.

This is amazing, I have to thank every single person that requested this for introducing me to it.

I forgot to mention that the live version with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra packs a bigger punch with the orch. & choir. Because they only had one run through before the performance, the band and orchestra don't end exactly at the same time. There live version of A Salty Dog is also worthy of your attention. Either with Edmonton or years later with the Danish Orchestra from 2006. Following the Edmonton recording, they used an orchestra again for the Grand Hotel album. Using an orchestra lost them some fans but made me love them even more. Both Grand Hotel and Fires (Which Burnt Brightly) are worth listening to as well.

A top 10 album of all time. Brilliant. A most underrated band

As mentioned in at least one other thread, the song "Fires (Which Burnt Brightly)" from Procol Harum's album Grand Hotel is fantastic and gets better and better with multiple listening's as does the whole album (the title track and For Licorice John are the other stand out tracks IMHO). Fires features guest vocalist Christiane Legrand of The Swingle Singers fame and Keith Reid's lyrics are exceptionally poetic and poignant and sadly seem to reflect the way to world and humanity seems to be headed these days: Fires (Which Burnt Brightly) - Procol Harum "This war we are waging is already lost The cause for the fighting has long been a ghost Malice and habit have now won the day The honours we fought for are lost in the fray Standards and bugles are trod in the dust Wounds have burst open, and corridors rust Once proud and truthful, now humbled and bent Fires which burnt brightly, now energies spent Let down the curtain, and exit the play The crowds have gone home and the cast sailed away Our flowers and feathers as scarring as weapons Our poems and letters have turned to deceptions"

I listened to this over and over again - convinced it contained the wisdom I needed to navigate my teen years. I finally realized that yes, life WAS like a beanstalk. This was groundbreaking when it came out in 68. Even the Beatles had not constructed such a long and serious masterwork. There had been long jams, sure, but nothing like this. OK, so the sections do not flow together very well, but those sudden jolts are fun too. Great review!

The live version with Edmonton symphony orchestra is also pretty epic, I actually prefer it to the original

When I think of Procol Harum it’s always Whiter Shade of Pale. This amazing piece is driving me to dig deeper into their repertoire! Thanks so much to everyone that requested this and to Dr. Doug for this review. I really enjoyed this one! Someone mentioned their concert with the Danish Orchestra 2006 on here. That’s a great concert I’ve seen on RU-vid worth checking out.

The piano section is one of the most beautiful sections ever

Possibly the first prog epic - and still one of the best.

I often start the day with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra recording of this song. It makes a very good start to the day. I hear so much Bach-influenced themes in this piece (also in A Whiter Shade of Pale).

I never listened to this piece all the way through. Absolutely brilliant. And Doug's exposition about the closing "hymn" - spot on and very enlightening.

Damn, goosebumps at the beginning, tears at the end.

Epic Robin Trower solo indeed. Look up "Whaling Stories" from the "Home" album for a possibly more achieved one, with more urgency too...

I became aware of Procol Harum when I was 14. Still love them and miss them.

GET THE EDMONTON LIVE VERSION!! Doug, you will be enthralled by the integration of the orchestra and choir! Robin Trower had left the band, but the guitarist that replaced him is amazing. One of the best live pieces ever recorded, and Grand Finale will reduce you to tears… 😢

I'm so happy to see someone else react to and appreciate this masterpiece! As a child prodigy pianist (a long time ago!) I was stunned in 1969 to hear them work effortlessly from minor to major chords, literally all over the place as you noticed and it was all magnificent! Even the Rachmaninov opening on the last hymn blended in seamlessly. Gary Brooker was as much a musical genius as any classical composer. Thank you so much for your knowledgeable videos!

Bravo Doug!! An epic track. Welcome to the Procol Harum rabbit hole! Keep diving in you won’t be disappointed!

Thanks, Doug! I've loved Procol Harum for a long, long time, and it was good to see you dig into this one. The live version with the Edmonton Symphony is a gorgeous recording, and maybe a bit more coherent than the studio version, though both have many wonderful moments. The live version came after Robin Trower had left the band, but the guitar work is still quite good. One of the beautiful things about Procol Harum was that Keith Reid was considered a full member of the band, though his contribution was as lyricist instead of as a musician (much like Peter Sinfield in the original King Crimson). This was one of the qualities that set this band apart, along with that unique pianist/organist combo that was a signature of the band.

The live version with the Edmonton Orchestra has un much long and beautiful end !

Finally Doug!!!, thanks to you and we wait for the live version in Edmonton. It will be epic.

The recitation on the first part of Glimpses of Nirvana is by Gary Brooker, the second part ("Held close by that which some dispies...") is recited by Keith Reid. The cembalo on Look to Your Soul is probably played by Matthew Fisher, since there is no organ. I think the piano quotes the Moonlight Sonanta by Beethoven between Gary's and Keith's recitations on Glimpses of Nirvana. At the start of Grand Finale it sounds as if both Gary and Matthew plays pianos, there is one in each channel.

amazing pre-Genesis stuff...

Thank you for reviewing this masterpiece. I was 16 years old when my father gave me the Shine on Brightly album and it changed my life (I’m 49 now) “In Held ‘Twas in I” has influenced every song I’ve ever written to this day. This was an excellent review of the song I really enjoyed your analysis and will definitely tune in for more.

So the song title was the first example of a mashup in contemporary music 😎

Excellent! It's been a few years since I listened to this album, or to their other one, A Salty Dog. And I have to admit, listening to it in the context of your reaction allowed me to hear aspects of this song I hadn't noticed before, even though I've heard it so many times. Great stuff!

Not sure if someone posted yet or not, but: (From Wikipedia): The title of the nearly side-long suite "In Held 'Twas in I" is an acrostic. It is formed by taking the first word of the lyrics in each of the first four movements as well as the first word of the sixth verse in the first movement: "In the darkness of the night..." From movement 1, "Glimpses of Nirvana" "Held close by that which some despise..." From the sixth verse of movement 1 "′Twas tea-time at the circus..." From movement 2, "′Twas Teatime at the Circus" "In the autumn of my madness..." From movement 3, "In the Autumn of My Madness" "I know if I'd been wiser..." From movement 4, "Look to Your Soul"

I've only ever heard Transatlantic's cover of this piece. The grand finale hymn melody is reminiscent of the British national anthem

Little. Suppers ready. Spots. Love this 😀 ❤️ thanks Doug.

Thanks for bringing this lost classic back to life. "Acrostic" - haven't heard that word in a long time.

If you want to know what Procol Harum were really capable of, then listen to the album Grand Hotel, and in particular the track, Fires (which burnt brightly) that has a gorgeous female chorus and a (La-La) solo by French soprano Christiane Legrand, who was the lead singer with the Swingle Singers.

If you miss the question, you miss the point of the story. "Life is like a beanstalk. Isn't it?" First time hearing the original. Edmonton Symphony Orchestra version, hands down.

I was obsessed with this song back in the day, and have heard all the versions of it. My favorite is the live one with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. The Finale is very intense and the guitar solo comes in loud and clear for a tremendous finish! I hope you had time to listen to it. I enjoyed your commentary.

This song (I see the title in Judeo-Christian theological referencing as "In Hell It Was In I") has been rooted in me since the 1960's. I have long wanted to witness a sympathetic composer's reaction to it. Doug, you are that man, with your emotional and music theory exclamations. I'm sure the originating Procul Harum are saying, "Bingo! Thank you, Doug." Watching your reaction was a great thrill for me. Thank you.

I haven't heard this in ages but as we rolled into it I remembered hearing it on the radio. Well done!

Best version is live with Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. RIP Gary...

I always interpreted the Dalai Llama's message as saying there isnt really a meaning to life, you simply grow like a beanstalk. Furthermore a beanstalk does not ponder such things but simply grows without concern. Once you start concerning yourself with such things you are no longer in the present

When I first heard this in 1969, I was a freshman in college and was experiencing what later was diagnosed as “major depression” and this song seemed to encapsulate my feelings at that time.

The version with Edmonton Symphony 'Live' 1972 is the best version. I've listened to this over and over since that time. Love it.

Opened the door for Genesis.

Yes!!! Gonna love hearing the reaction on this one. Procols big masterpiece!

That's a really Cool piece. I'll Listen to it again sometime on a Sunday morning I know Salty Dog, Conquistador and Whiter Shade of Pale by Procal Harum. Always loved their sound, the mix of guitar, organ and Gary Brookers vocals Amazing Stuff..Plus I'm a huge fan of Robin Trowers solo output

I am a little ashamed that I had never given the album version a listen. This is spectacular! I feel it is at least equal to the Live version in Edmonton!

A friend of mine whose sister was a Nun said the grand finale sounded like they were marching up to heaven.

Excellent! I have not heard this before either.

I've been waiting for this one. It's perfect for you. Very arguably the first "prog epic", released way back in 1968. The only other contender for that distinction is "The Fool" by Quicksilver Messenger Service, also released in 1968. Both are still on my playlist, and in my vinyl record collection, over half a centurty later. "The lesson lies in learning, and by teaching I'll be taught...." Keep teaching us about the finer points of music, and keep learner for yourself.

Hi Doug, really enjoying your reactions and break downs of the stuff your putting out. Have you listened to any of The Sensational Alex Harvey bands stuff? Faith Healer, Next, are a couple of tracks you might be interested in.

55 years ago ! Monsters

Doug, be sure to check out Everything Matthew Fisher did after he left the band including Journeys End. That’s his voice on In the Autumn of my Madness. And on Salty Dog he’s singing on Boredom and Wreck of the Hesperus. 18:39

Thanks for introducing me to this song! The only Procol Harum song I'd known before today was Whiter Shade of Pale. I learnt it when I used to take Piano lessons, although it would have sounded better on Hammond Organ. The "circus" part of IHTII reminds me of the Beatles (E.g. For the Benefit of Mr Kite) but also the band Madness. I'm sure Procol Harum and the Beatles influenced them. I haven't found an in-depth analysis of "House of Fun." maybe Doug can do a reaction?

I saw them play this at the Hollywood Bowl with the LA Philharmonic along with choir and lyricist Keith Reid read the opening poem segments…

Procol have some really beautiful pieces and lots of interesting key change sort of stuff. This almost reminds me of "what is is what" by Morgan.

Please please play the live version with the Edmonton Symphony orchestra and choir from 1972. You will not be disappointed

Please try the live version. It flows together much better than the studio version, in my opinion.

SKY OVERTURE by Uli Jon Roth!!!!!🎸

My first exposure to this epic was from Transatlantic, which does pay great homage. I knew they were covering PH, but I had never heard this original version until today. Such good stuff! To me, that final “hymn” as you call it, Doug, reminds me of “God Save the Queen/King, My Country ‘Tis of Thee”. Thanks for sharing Doug!

Finally! :) :: Edit: And just imagine I caught this less than 2 hours after it was posted. :) Procol Harum and Sam Clayton Band sorta made me realize at a relatively early age that I liked music, not songs. The earliest "awakening memory" I have is the sound of the Hammond organ which made its presence known here as well.

Hi Doug, excellent video as always, I just wanted to recommend you a song for your next video that seems ti me you haven't heard yet. It's April by deep purple and it's an under-appreciated piece but magnificent in every possible way.

You REALLY need to check the British band UFO formed in 1968. Start with their song "Rock Bottom" which was released in '74 after the brought in 17 y.o. German guitarist, Michael Schenker, the younger brother of Scorpians guitarist, Rudolf Schenker. With the addition of Michael the dynamics changed drastically & their popularity skyrocketed. It's from this point where they've influenced such groups & musicians like Slash, Iron Maiden & Metallica. There are a couple live performances available. Live or studio doesn't matter. The song will blow you away. Other great songs to follow up with are "Doctor, Doctor", "Too Hot to Handle", "Lights Out", "You Can Rock Me", "Love to Love", & "Too Much of Nothing" just to name a few

I still get chills

i would say the Edmonton live version is considered the definitive one to listen to.... but the studio version is a very close 2nd. It is so uplifting...Has had a dramatic effect on my life. I really feel you understood and got the whole point and meaning of this beautiful piece of music. Really well done analysis. You'll love the live version as well.

All these years I've enjoyed the live take from Edmonton and never took the trouble to listen to the studio version. It's good to hear it along with Doug. :-)

Procol Harum the first concert I went to in 1973. Have loved them ever since.

If you are hungry for some more Procal Harum, Check out another of their shorter epics. Whaling Stories with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.

What an exciting piece of music after all these years....

Amazing!! Like the old Genesis!

Please check Saecula Saeculorum performing live version of the song of the band name with the fabulous violinist Marcus Viana.

I was around for this but this is another band that I never did a deep dive into so haven't heard this one before. I, too, was struck by the spoken word parts being much like some Moody Blues. The vocals in another part reminded me of the Strawbs--and others of Van der Graaf Generator and some groups/styles I can't quite put my finger on to name. Anyway, I'm sure all these bands listened to each other.

Procol Harum is in the top 5 favorite bands of mine. Still get goosebumps. Thanks' Dave.

I don't know how I never heard this. That being said, I sure did enjoy it.

A Salty Dog would be a beautiful full album to cover.....many great and lyrically deep tunes.....

Dear Doug. May i challenge you with a quite strange music suggestion? The piece i was thinking about is :Zoviet*France: Something Spooked The Horses (from the album The Decriminalisation Of Country Music)

Thank you for that.

First time I took LSD in the late 60's was the first time I heard this. It was a watershed moment for me.

You cannot analyze genius, you only diminish yourself! This is epic and is celestial!

Had only heard Transatlantic's version up until now.

The coda struck me as a great wedding march with a little psychedelia tossed in for good luck. And is it just me, or does Brooker remind you of David Bowie singing in his higher registers?

I just saw your review of this. I spent months listening to just this song in high school. I pity young people who do not have music like this to listen to as they grow. Unfortunately, they had to finish it as it had to fit on the record.

Procol Harum are amazing, I love it 👍

And don’t overlook Matthew’s masterpiece “Repent Walpurgis” from their first album.

Long time since I've heard this, Thanks. Beautiful,

I was interested which version would you select. Studio one is tight and solid. Live with Edmonton Orchestra is fuller. Both are fantastic pieces of music. Thanks.

Would love to have Doug mention the producers of each piece ,in this case I think it's Denny Cordell

I can really recommend the song "No Borders" by "Ruskaja". Its very good music with a good message. Its rather unpopular european ( i think austrian) group, bit very cool. Got elements of Rock, Metal ans Ska. Very interesting, Special and cool.

Early Epic! I think VDGG listened for Lighthouse Keepers and KC for GP! Love it!

Hello In those days I havent so much record so I must have heard this record 30 times, masterpiece....

Also some Pink Floyd atmosphere !.....and King Crimson !

Great analysis! This often unpredictable shift to different, non obvious, keys, major and minor, is really typical of Procol music. Something that might shed some light on how this masterpiece was composed is the notion that most of the music was composed by Gary Brooker and Matthew Fisher as SEPARATE pieces, the idea of sticking them together, also adding connecting and returning bits, came after a while. Also, it’s interesting to note that there are in fact three vocalists on the studio version: the usual Gary Brooker, organist Matthew Fisher for Autumn of my Madness (who also played piano and rhythm guitar on that section) and lyricist Keith Reid himself, who speaks the words for the “held close” section. The Edmonton version is pretty good and not too different, they had to arrange a few things differently of course, both to use more the orchestra and to allow for the transition, also Brooker does all the singing, since Fisher was no longer in the band. Guitarist Dave Ball is no Robin Trower but managed. I also recommend the 1997 redhill reunion version, the only good recording with Mick Grabham on guitar and especially magic when Matthew Fisher takes on the rhythm guitar and sings Autumn of my Madness for the first time in almost 20 years. Also Douglas Adams (!!!) does the Keith Reid spoken part. They began to do it again while touring in the 2010s, in fact I’ve heart it live three times in 2013 with orchestra

Hey Doug. You should listen to the Transatlantic version of this song. They released as the last track of their first album called SMPTe, in 2000. My opinion is that they did some improvements on the song. The second part has a melody in singing instead of the narration, they drop out the circus part, and did a more epic ending. It's great!

Glad to see someone React to this at last so well done for that.I think you talked a bit too much over the song but i guess it is a reaction vidio after all.Procol Harum are to me the best band ever and they have many more amazing songs believe me..

So glad you finally got to this early prog suite masterpiece: others from '68 would include 'Ars Longa Vita Brevis' (The Nice), A Saucerful Of Secrets' Pink Floyd (similar choral resolution t this one), and Side 3 of of Electric Ladyland- the 'Rainy Day/Mermaid' suite one might call it...? Then there's the whole of 'SF Sorrow' by The Pretty Things, truly the first concept album..? Townshend thought so and it inspired him to write 'Tommy', which might not unjustly be up for consideration. These videos are like the music course I was hoping to get when I was a young hopeful, sadly English academia just wasn't up it, then or probably even now...

The live orchestral version is very nice, but the guitarist on that occasion is NOT Robin Trower, and that makes a difference. I believe the replacement guitarist is David Ball(?) A fine player, but NOT Trower. As to the relative shortness of the grand finale, it may have had more to do with the limitations of the LP media. Eighteen minutes is a long one, and I believe there was another shorter song that opened side 2 of that album…🤔

I was interested in hearing the studio version of this, as well as a composer's reaction, since I had only heard the live version with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, which I LOVE. But since I had heard that live version so much, I was prepared to be disappointed and I was. The version with the Edmonton Symphony is much fuller and much more powerful. If you haven't already, you should listen to it. I think you'll be impressed. In my opinion, the studio version pales in comparison. I read on another comment that Gary Brooker, Keith Reid, and Matthew Fisher have all died recently. That is a terrible shame. Brooker's vocals and piano and Fisher's organ are wonderful and Reid's lyrics are some of the most vibrant and interesting in all of rock music. As often happens, these guys, and Procol Harum as a whole, as successful as they were, were really under appreciated. They were an amazing band that brought some truly unique slant on rock music.

This piece really comes to life in the ‘Edmonton’ live version, I think. The studio version sounds a bit…. timid?

I believe the hymn is Land of Hope and Glory.

This is one of the greatest pieces of Rock/Classical music of the 60 's. It's a shame you did not show the original surrealist album cover of "Shine on Brightly." A&M records by Procol Harm.(1968) It shows a Naked female dummy's backside & playing an upright acoustic piano in the desert & taken with Eastman Kodak Color Infra-Red Ektchrome. This creates a greenish/yellow cast over the desert scene. The cover you show is also on the CD re-issue, but IMHO does not do the album justice. Thank you for re-introducing this classic timeless track to the public. Procol Harum was very under-rated. PS You mention that the ending was sort of familiar. If memory serves me right, it's influenced by the music of the Great J.S.Bach. Great Job Amigo! ❤