Nektar releases expanded edition of prog-rock LP ‘Down to Earth’: Review
The British progressive rock band Nektar, while achieving their greatest commercial success in Germany and America, was entirely composed of British members. Their fan base expanded significantly following the release of their fourth LP, Remember the Future, in late 1973. This album, featuring the lengthy title track taking up both sides of a vinyl record, set them apart from other progressive rock acts like Yes and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Known for their emotional, melodic, and rock and roll-influenced music, Nektar’s popularity soared in the U.S. after Remember the Future received extensive airplay on FM radio and reached the top 20 on American pop charts by July 1974. Their American tour during that time was met with large, enthusiastic crowds, especially in regions like New York and the Midwest.
Their fifth studio album, Down to Earth, released in October 1974, continued to build on their success, reaching #32 on U.S. charts and spawning their only U.S. chart single, “Astral Man.” Despite subsequent releases receiving less attention and the group disbanding in 1982, Nektar’s legacy persists. With various incarnations of the band featuring original members performing under the Nektar name since 2000 and expanded reissues of their early albums introducing their music to new audiences, Nektar’s influence endures.
The 2026 reissue of Down to Earth, released through the Esoteric imprint of Cherry Red Records, offers a fresh perspective on the album’s concept. Unlike their previous spacey endeavors, this record presents a more lighthearted circus theme. Featuring a seven-piece horn section and guest appearances from American soul singer P.P. Arnold, Down to Earth showcases a blend of memorable songs with the circus motif. While some spoken segments from former Hawkwind vocalist Robert Calvert may grow tiresome, the album’s compelling vocal work, surprising chord changes, and melodic tunes make for an engaging listen.
The expanded edition of Down to Earth includes a remastered version of the original LP, alternate mixes of select tracks, a live-in-the-studio session, and a previously unreleased concert from April 1975 in St. Louis. Recollections from Mick Brockett, the band’s light show creator, and bassist Derek “Mo” Moore, along with notes from Mark Powell, who oversaw the reissue, add depth to the collection. This reissue serves as a gateway for both long-time fans and newcomers to dive into Nektar’s music and appreciate their contributions to the progressive rock genre.