Billy Thorpe's long-lost space rock opera, Children of the Sun, is finally back in print after over three decades. This album, a deep cut in classic rock, is a testament to Thorpe's artistic vision and the power of collaboration. The story behind its creation is a fascinating one, involving a chance meeting, a shared fascination with space exploration, and a unique musical journey. This article delves into the album's resurgence, the people behind it, and the impact it has had on Thorpe's legacy.
A Space Odyssey Begins
The story of Children of the Sun starts with a party and a conversation between Billy Thorpe and Spencer Proffer. Their shared interest in space exploration and the mysterious aftermath of alien contact sparked an idea. Together, they crafted a fictional story of a friendly alien race, the Children of the Sun, observing Earth's self-destruction. This concept album, with its futuristic sounds and captivating narrative, was a product of their creativity and Proffer's production expertise.
A Musical Journey
Proffer's involvement in the project was significant. He provided the financial backing and spent a year working closely with Thorpe on the album. The result was a stunning listen, a time capsule of 1970s rock music. The album's success was initially promising, but bad timing and the collapse of Capricorn Records led to its short-lived commercial success. Despite this, the album remains a testament to Thorpe's talent and Proffer's dedication to creating great music.
The Reissue: A Labor of Love
The new reissue of Children of the Sun is a labor of love, brought to life by Iconoclassic Records and Jeremy Holiday. The process involved a village of experts, including Proffer, Larry Brown, and Alvin Taylor, who contributed to the album's original creation. The reissue features a full remaster, expansive liner notes, and new interviews, offering a comprehensive look into the album's creation and impact.
Holiday's involvement added a new layer of understanding to the album. Through his work with Proffer and the immersive experience of developing the reissue, he learned about the album's genesis and the fun and dedication that went into its creation. The reissue is a testament to the album's enduring appeal and the importance of preserving musical history.
A Legacy Preserved
The new edition of Children of the Sun is available now, offering a chance for new and old fans to experience the album's timeless appeal. It is a reminder of the power of collaboration and the impact of artistic vision. As Proffer reflects, the album's success or failure was not a reflection of Thorpe's talent but a matter of timing and circumstances. The reissue ensures that Thorpe's brilliant work is preserved for future generations, solidifying his legacy in the world of classic rock.
