A Whiter Shade of Pale

This quotation from Beach Boy Bruce Johnston was sent specially for 'Beyond the Pale' in October 2004

"In May of 1967, I heard this amazing recording on Radio Luxembourg by a 'new' band called Procol Harum. It was called A Whiter Shade of Pale and it stopped me in my tracks! Matthew Fisher's ear candy Bach-ish inspired organ melody, Gary Brooker's great song melody, and Keith Reid's wonderful lyrics along with Gary's lead vocal became an instant pop classic to me! I don't want to overlook Ray Royer and Bill Eyden because they also helped create this remarkable recording. 

"I was fortunate enough to see Procol Harum play live at London's number one club, The Speakeasy, just a couple days after first hearing A Whiter Shade of Pale on the radio. This Beach Boy was in the club that night along with the BeeGees and we were all thrilled to hear a great live version of A Whiter Shade of Pale at the beginning of Procol Harum's race up the worldwide music charts.

"Now, here in late 2004 in the US, take a listen to the re-released classic Procol Harum album Grand Hotel and enjoy the Joe Reagoso respectfully re-mastered sound. Amazing!"

Thanks, Bruce