Reach For The Sky

"Reach For The Sky" by the Sutherland Brothers is an album that stands out in their discography for several reasons. Released in 1975, this record captures the duo's unique blend of folk rock, offering a variety of melodic and introspective tracks.

One fascinating aspect of this album is its production by Muff Winwood, the brother of Steve Winwood from the band Traffic. Muff's involvement brought a polished yet organic sound to the album, which was crucial in highlighting the duo's vocal harmonies and lyrical storytelling.

The album features the track "Ain't Too Proud", an exemplary piece showcasing the Sutherlands' ability to weave pop sensibility with folk storytelling. However, the most notable song from "Reach For The Sky" is arguably "Arms of Mary". This track became a significant hit, reaching number 5 on the UK Singles Chart and gaining popularity across Europe. Its success was pivotal in defining the Sutherland Brothers' career, introducing their music to a broader audience.

Moreover, "Reach For The Sky" reflects the transitional music atmosphere of the 1970s, where genres were fluid and musicians often experimented with new sounds. The Sutherland Brothers were no exception, and this album exemplifies their effort to blend rich lyrical content with accessible melodies.

The Sutherland Brothers, alongside Quiver, with whom they often collaborated, were known for their energetic performances, which translated well onto their studio recordings, leaving a notable mark on the folk rock scene of the era.