*2025 stock* In 1975, Snakes Alive released a rare album with only 50 copies, blending Progressive Rock and Jazz with a mix of guitar, drums, bass, keyboards, woodwinds, and trumpet. Despite its high musical quality, its limited release kept it from reaching a wider audience. A quarter-century later, a pirated CD revealed the band's exceptional performance and intricate compositions. Snakes Alive's roots trace back to the 1972 band Aragorn, which recorded a 43-minute suite inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Composed by keyboardist Oleg Ditrich, who started the work at 14, the piece showcases classical piano, intricate drumming, and elements of Jethro Tull’s folk and progressive styles.
The music’s complex structure, influenced by early 70s British Rock, mirrors the novel’s themes of mystery, grandeur, and intensity. Discovered during the reissue of Snakes Alive, The Suite is now recognized as a hidden masterpiece in Australian Progressive Rock.
Recorded at Clover Studios, Sydney, Australia, September 1973. Mixed at EMI Studios, Sydney, Australia, February 1974. Aragorn is the forerunner of Australian progressive rock/jazz rock band . This 1973 recording 'The Suite' was released 50 years after it was recorded. Made in Korea Packaged in a standard jewel case with clear tray, 4-page booklet, 8-page poster-style booklet and hype sticker affixed to the shrink wrap on the front.
