Conquistador

Loved this back in the 60s.  Released on Procol Harum's debut album in the fall of 1967, we played Conquistador in our band.  Our keyboardist went wild on his Farfisa in the closing section.  The song remained almost unknown, despite our efforts, until Procol Harum released a version with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra in 1972 which became a Top Ten hit.  I prefer the original.  Featuring one of Gary Brooker's trademark vocals and evocative lyrics.

Conquistador your stallion stands
In need of company
And like some angel's haloed brow
You reek of purity
I see your armour-plated breast
Has long since lost it's sheen
And in your death mask face
There are no signs which can be seen
And though I hoped for something to find
I could see no maze to unwind

Conquistador a vulture sits
Upon your silver shield
And in your rusty scabbard now
The sand has taken seed
And though your jewel-encrusted blade
Has not been plundered still
The sea has washed across your face
And taken of it's fill
And though I hoped for something to find
I could see no maze to unwind

Conquistador there is no time
I must pay my respect
And though I came to jeer at you
I leave now with regret
And as the gloom begins to fall
I see there is no, only all
And though you came with sword held high
You did not conquer, only die
And though I hoped for something to find
I could see no maze to unwind