Space Opera - Holy River

Amazing. Such an underrated album. Like a progressive rock Byrds

This song sounds like Byrds-informed Country Rock meets Sensations’ Fix’s Kraut/Italian Prog hybrid.

What an absolute jam. OPN Fact Mix 162 brought me here.

I bought this album after hearing this song in '73. The entire LP is so far ahead of most anything from that era. Strong hints of the Byrds and CSNY. I still have the album even now.

does anyone know what tuning the guitars are in on this one?

is this bands name related to the scientology concept of space opera?

You CAN go back in time

It seems like the contemporary band Surface to Air Missive have taken some cues from this album!

Magical, timeless tune.

Admitedly I dont know much about 70s country rock but does this song sound waaay ahead of the time? Like, the other songs are really good but familiar Canyon era Country Rock, mixed with some progginess here and there. But then comes this song that sounds like something from the 80s alternative college rock bands. Very indie and kinda math rock sounding.

El Paso's answer to the Byrds, but better!

I saw them play once at the HOP in Fort Worth. Legendary band at that time. It seems they were a perfect bridge from the Byrds to the Eagles. I can only guess they didn't achieve fame because of management or personalities. They certainly had the necessary talent and vision. Too bad. Maybe they'll be famous some day.

im so blown away that this came out in 73

bloody good!!!! WOW!!!!!!!!! sounds like the future.

Perfect song. Unreal.

Indeed...excellent

First heard it in '72. Loved it!

Such a shame that lead guitar's fuzz got mixed so unbelievably loud. This album deserves a remaster, such a hidden gem.

space opera headphones and reefer......those were some nice times

That lead part is a 12 string tuned in 5ths with a fuzz.

A bargain bin gem! Picked it up in the early 80s and was astonished at how I'd missed it first time round. What immediately struck me about this track was the use of Crosby-era Byrds tunings in the electric 12-string. The massed guitar overdub could almost come from 70s Krautrock! A second album was recorded many years later and there is also a collection of pre-1st album tracks available : seek and ye shall find! Sadly, Dave Bullock is the only surviving member of a band cursed by ill-health and the vagaries of the music business!

ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT SONG (... and ALBUM !!!)

outstanding 12 string guitar

Shame this never got any recognition, great tune.

very lovely melody

These guys truly are one of rock's best kept secrets, sadly. A bit Byrds, Big Star, Poco, Gram Parsons, CS&N and even a little early Yes-like at times. 

Brilliant.... I never, ever get tired of listening to Space Opera:)

Love this

The album is so good! I bought the LP for a bargain only a couple of years ago, having no idea what it was. Could hardly believe my ears when I played it. Will listen to it again when I get home from work today. Love from Sweden

May the force be  with them

Probably my favorite Space Opera song. RIP Phil, Scott and Brent. BDB! Keep on trucking Dave!

a lost and forgotten diamond... this is what i call a true masterpiece..

Saw Space Opera reunion in Ft Worth. Thanks for your friendship Phil.