Record Reviews
28 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | BECK, BOGERT & APPICE ~ BECK, BOGERT & APPICE
REPERTOIRE 2330 (Barcode: 4009910233023) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2005
1st and only album by the Anglo-American super-group Beck, Bogert & AppiceFind albums by this artist, comprising of British guitar hero Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist and American rhythm section giants, bassist Tim BogertFind albums by this artist and drummer Carmine AppiceFind albums by this artist. This threesome suffered from bad karma even before it was actually formed: following the demise of the great American group Vanilla FudgeFind albums by this artist, founding members Bogart and Appice suggested to Beck, who just disbanded his own British band at the time, to join them in forming a next band together. Although Beck agreed, a nasty car crash took him out of circulation for a while and Bogart and Appice formed the splendid CactusFind albums by this artist instead. In 1972, when Cactus broke up as did The Jeff Beck Group, finally the missed earlier opportunity arose again, this time to be consummated.
Potentially the trio had everything one might hope for: a virtuoso guitar genius, superb bass player and one of the best Rock drummers, but all the talent didn´t prevent the band from falling victim to personality clashes between the trio members, leading to a breakdown before the band reached its second anniversary. They did manage however to record one album, which shows their potential in full (a second album was attempted, but never finalized).
Great guitar licks, tasty bass and driving drumming are the basic elements behind this recording, which also includes support from a bunch of musician friends. The music is mostly written by the trio, with some adaptations of tunes from other sources. The only drawback of the album is the absence of a strong lead vocalist, but it is nevertheless a true Classic Rock memento. Warmly recommended!
| | Updated: 11/11/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BECK, BOGERT & APPICE ~ LIVE IN JAPAN 1973 / LIVE IN LONDON 1974
RHINO 603497833252 (Barcode: 603497833252) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2023
This Box Set presents two live concerts by the British / American Rock supergroup / power trio Beck, Bogert & AppiceFind albums by this artist, comprising of British guitarist Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist and American rhythm section comprising of bassist Tim BogertFind albums by this artist and drummer Carmine AppiceFind albums by this artist, both members of the legendary groups Vanilla FudgeFind albums by this artist and CactusFind albums by this artist. The Box Set includes two 2CD sets, the first with the previously Japan only release of a live recording in Japan in 1973, and the second with the previously unreleased live concert at the Rainbow Theatre in London in 1974. The Box set is lavishly packaged and includes a hardcover book, tour book and a poster. The sound quality is absolutely sensational.
The short-lived trio recorded only one eponymous studio album and disbanded before the second album was completed. The material recorded for the second album remains unreleased. The trio was a classic example of the Rock supergroup phenomenon, which started with CreamFind albums by this artist and dominated the scene in the early 1970s. All three musicians where absolute masters of their trade and superb virtuosi, who continued to develop the Rock Improvisation idiom started by Cream. They co-wrote most of their original material, but included also new interpretations of songs originating from the outside of the group.
Despite their immense talents as instrumentalists, they lacked a lead singer of the scale of their instrumental powers and a composer, who would provide them with material, which would reflect their class, like Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who filled both these functions in Cream. Nevertheless, they still remain as one of the most magnificent examples of Rock’s power trios and the material here is absolutely worth being revisited.
Overall, this is an essential piece of the Classic Rock puzzle, a sublime document of the Rock Improvisation idiom and obviously a great tribute to the legacy of these sublime musicians, two of which are sadly no longer with us. An absolutely essential part of any serious Classic Rock collection!
| | Updated: 11/11/2023Posted: 11/11/2023 | CD 4 Digibook Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEFF BECK ~ BECK-OLA
EPIC 66084 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
2nd album from 1969 and every iota as good as the debut, with identical line-up. Both albums are credited with the initiation of `heavy rock`, but although Beck uses his guitar to play some heavy riffs, but today`s standards this is quite timid. Nevertheless this is magnificent music, played and sung by true visionary musicians and a great reminder of some of rock`s greatests moments.
| | Updated: 01/09/2021Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEFF BECK ~ LOUD HAILER
ATCO 081227944452 (Barcode: 081227944452) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
It is truly amazing to see the vitality and chameleonic ability to adapt displayed by some of the veteran Rockers, who are now in their seventh or even eighth decade. British guitarist / composer / bandleader Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist is definitely one the most impressive examples of the Artists, for whom the passing of time is simply completely meaningless. This latest, as of the time of writing, album by Beck and his new crew, which is decades younger than himself, is a wonderful example not of "surviving" in the music idiom, but of keeping a place in the lead.
Beck combines forces with two young female musicians, vocalist Rosie BonesFind albums by this artist and guitarist Carmen VandenbergFind albums by this artist, who lead together their own group called Bones. They are supported by bassist Giovanni PallottiFind albums by this artist and drummer Davide SollazziFind albums by this artist. Beck, Bones and Vandenberg wrote together nine of the eleven pieces on the album, Beck wrote one additional piece and co-wrote the remaining one with producer Filippo CimattiFind albums by this artist, who is also the producer of Bones.
The music is almost a complete about face to Beck´s extensive flirt with Jazz-Rock Fusion he pursued for several years and comes back to contemporary Rock, at its best. It uses a plethora of Rock sub-genres, including Heavy and Industrial, but sounds incredibly fresh and inventive, unlike most of contemporary Rock music. The vocals are impressive and quite diverse, emphasizing different approach in every song. The lyrics are surprisingly meaningful and often pretty bold, touching on political and social issues, which again is pretty rare in today´s Rock music. The rhythm section does a wonderful work supporting the other musicians amicably and intelligently.
But it is Beck´s guitar playing which is the focus of this album, even if it wasn´t completely intended. He is simply extraordinary on each and every of the tunes on this album, playing a stunning variety of sounds and styles, with each of his whining guitar solos being absolute gems. In many respects Beck reinvents Rock guitar playing here, creating an amalgam of Blues, Classic Rock and Fusion guitar techniques and sound, completely unique and absolutely spectacular.
The album is overall wonderfully played, produced and recorded, and kudos is due to everybody involved. The album failed, sadly, to make a major impact on the music scene, which is sort of expected, as quality these days is reverse proportional to appreciation and success. Well, we the faithful, salute you Maestro!
| | Updated: 14/10/2016Posted: 14/10/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEFF BECK ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 888751056329 (Barcode: 888751056329) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 - 1977 Released: 2015
This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary British guitarist / composer / bandleader Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, originally released on the EpicFind albums on this label label between 1971 and 1977. They are: “Rough And ReadyFind albums with this title” (1971), “Jeff Beck GroupFind albums with this title” (1972), “Blow By BlowFind albums with this title” (1975), “WiredFind albums with this title” (1976) and “Jeff Beck With The Jan Hammer Group LiveFind albums with this title” (1977). Those are the third to seventh albums recorded by Jeff Beck, except the two albums (one studio and one live) recorded by him as part of the short lived Beck, Bogert & AppiceFind albums by this artist trio.
The first two albums included here were recorded by the second incarnation of the Jeff Back GroupFind albums by this artist (the first incarnation recorded the first two Back’s albums “TruthFind albums with this title” and “Beck-OlaFind albums with this title”), which included vocalist Bobby TrenchFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Max MiddletonFind albums by this artist, bassist Clive ChamanFind albums by this artist and drummer Cozy PowellFind albums by this artist. Stylistically these were transitional albums between Rock and Jazz-Rock Fusion, which was Beck’s main interest in the years that followed.
The next two albums present some of Beck’s most admired work as a guitarist, both being purely instrumental and clearly moving deeply into Jazz-Rock Fusion, but with the unique characteristics of his superb sense of melody and fabulous improvisational abilities, which have but a few equals among the world’s guitar heroes. Beck is accompanied by Middleton, bassist Phil ChenFind albums by this artist and drummer Richard BaileyFind albums by this artist on “Blow By Blow” and Middleton and Czech keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, American bassist Wilbur BascombFind albums by this artist and drummer Narada Michael WaldenFind albums by this artist on “Wired”.
The live album is a full-blown Fusion affair on which Back is supported by Hammer and an all American team of violinist Steve KindlerFind albums by this artist, bassist Fernando SaundersFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony SmithFind albums by this artist. Not surprisingly the music sounds not far from Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist.
Overall this is a real treat to all guitar fans and undeniably some of the most exciting music recorded in the 1970s.
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 31/07/2021Posted: 31/07/2021 | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEFF BECK ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS VOL.2
SONY 886976605124 (Barcode: 886976605124) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1980 - 2000 Released: 2010
This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary British guitarist / composer / bandleader Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, originally released on the EpicFind albums on this label label between 1980 and 2001. They are: “There & BackFind albums with this title” (1980), “FlashFind albums with this title” (1985), “Jeff Beck`s Guitar ShopFind albums with this title” (1989), “Who Else!Find albums with this title” (1999) and “You Had It ComingFind albums with this title” (2001). Those are the third, fourth, fifth, seventh and eighth solo studio albums recorded by Jeff Beck. The soundtrack “Frankie`s HouseFind albums with this title” (1992 with Jed LeiberFind albums by this artist), as well as the sixth album “Crazy LegsFind albums with this title” (1993) are missing in this Box Set, as usual for unexplained reasons. The “Flash” album includes a couple of bonus tracks not present on the original album.
The musicians playing on these albums include some of the best players, both in the UK and USA, such as keyboardists Jan HammerFind albums by this artist and Tony HymasFind albums by this artist, bassists Mo FosterFind albums by this artist and Doug WimbishFind albums by this artist, drummers Simon PhillipsFind albums by this artist, Carmine AppiceFind albums by this artist and Terry BozzioFind albums by this artist and many, many others.
Musically Beck flirts on these albums with diverse environments, such as Jazz-Rock Fusion, Pop and Rock. Except for the “Flash” album, which features vocal contributions by Beck and other guests, including Rod StewartFind albums by this artist on one track, the rest of the material is mostly instrumental and displays Beck´s guitar pyrotechnics at their full scale.
Overall, this is a real treat to all guitar fans and a great showcase of Beck’s undeniable talent as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 03/09/2021Posted: 03/09/2021 | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEFF BECK ~ TRUTH
EPIC 66085 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
1st album from 1968 by guitarist extraordinare Jeff Beck, who after exchanging guitar licks in the Yardbirds with Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page opted for a solo career. This is a monumental album, one of the corner stones of modern rock, but unfortunately often forgotten and neglected by fans and critics alike. Beck`s masterful attack on guitar and his brilliant technique, combined with the vocal talents of Rod Stewart make this as important as paraller debut albums by Cream or Led Zeppelin.
| | Updated: 01/09/2021Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANLEY CLARKE ~ JOURNEY TO LOVE
EPIC 468221 (Barcode: 5099746822125) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975
3rd album by one of the most important Jazz / Fusion players / composers Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist. A brilliant instrumentalist on both the acoustic and electric basses, Clark first came to the attention of Fusion fans as a member of Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist’s Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, where he played some of the most innovative bass parts of the genre. His ability to switch between the acoustic and electric bass and his incredible musicality and sense of rhythm made him the world’s leader on his instrument, to be surpassed later only by the mighty Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist (please note Clarke plays fretted bass guitar and Pastorius fretless bass guitar, which are quite different in many ways). This album is considered his best release ever. With a stellar cast including Chick Corea, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, Lenny WhiteFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and David SanciousFind albums by this artist, Clarke presents a series of brilliant compositions, each one in a different style and instrumentation. The absolute highlight of the album is the acoustic trio (with Corea and McLaughlin) dedicated to John Coltrane. Also the “Concerto For Jazz / Rock Orchestra”, performed with a brass section, is an amazing piece of classic Fusion. This is an absolute must for any Fusion / good music fan.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANLEY CLARKE ~ THE COMPLETE 1970S EPIC ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979312227 (Barcode: 886979312227) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1979 Released: 2012
American bassist / composer / bandleader Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist is one of the iconic figures of the Jazz-Rock Fusion explosion, which swept the world in the late 1960s / early 1970s. His distinctive and virtuosic bass lines have set standards, which are followed to this very day, with very few bass players being able to play as technically perfect as he always did and even fewer to be as inventive, groundbreaking and innovative. Although primarily associated with Fusion and the electric bass guitar, Clarke always was (and still is) an exceptional acoustic bass player with a superb Jazz technique and sensitivity.
Clarke first came to prominence as a member of the first lineup of the legendary Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s ensemble Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, where his bass lines shaped the music as significantly as Corea´s keyboard wizardry. Clarke stayed with the original band for several years and remained a Corea´s friend and collaborator in the decades that followed. In parallel to his work with Return To Forever, Clarke started a solo recording career, which produced some of Fusion´s and later also Funk´s greatest moments.
Following the release of his debut solo album on PolydorFind albums on this label, he switched to the NemperorFind albums on this label label (currently owned by SonyFind albums on this label) and later on to the EpicFind albums on this label label (a subsidiary of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). He recorded five albums for Nemperor between 1974 and 1979, the last of which was a live double LP. In the 1980s and early 1990s his albums were released on Epic. This Box Set includes all the five albums released on Nemperor and as a bonus also a live album recorded during Clarke´s band tours in 1976-1977, which was released only in 1991.
Of course the list of names of the musicians, who play alongside Clarke on these albums, reads like an encyclopedia of American music of that period. To mention just a few: keyboardists Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, David SanciousFind albums by this artist and others, guitarists Bill ConnorsFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and others, drummers Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist, Lenny WhiteFind albums by this artist, Gerry BrownFind albums by this artist and others and a myriad of other musicians. Clarke composed almost every note played here, with very few exceptions, and the music is absolutely marvelous and ass-kicking, as it was at the time it was recorded.
Clarke was often criticized for utilizing his vocals on some of these albums, which of course was not one of his fortes, but since the vocals are relatively scarce and in retrospect really not that bad, that point of criticism id completely insignificant in view of the majestic content of the music contained herein.
Every bass player today, consciously or subconsciously, directly or indirectly is influenced one way or another by what Stanley Clarke played over the years, and this Box Set is a great way to celebrate his talent. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 7 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DONOVAN ~ BREEZES OF PATCHOULI – HIS STUDIO RECORDINGS: 1966-1969
PARLOPHONE 5099992860520 (Barcode: 5099992860520) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1966 - 1969 Released: 2013
This marvelous Box Set collects all the studio recordings by the great British troubadour DonovanFind albums by this artist, recorded during his explosive years, which changed the shape of Pop and Rock music as we know it. It includes the five extraordinary studio albums: "Sunshine SupermanFind albums with this title", "Mellow YellowFind albums with this title", "The Hurdy Gurdy ManFind albums with this title", "BarabajagalFind albums with this title" and finally "A Gift From A Flower To A GardenFind albums with this title" which was originally a double LP. All these albums were released by EpicFind albums on this label in the USA and PyeFind albums on this label in UK, often out of sync and with different track lists, as a result of the usual music business BS that prevailed at the time.
These albums feature all original songs written by Donovan and were produced by the British producer Mickie MostFind albums by this artist. Some of the arrangements were written by the great John CameronFind albums by this artist and the list of supporting musicians reads like a who´s who of the British Jazz and Rock scene at the time: pianist John Cameron, flautist Harold McNairFind albums by this artist, guitarists Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist and Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist, bassist Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist, John Paul JonesFind albums by this artist and Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, drummers Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist and Tony CarrFind albums by this artist and many others.
In addition to the five original albums on three CDs, this set includes a fourth CD full of bonus material, which wonderfully fills in and expands the picture of Donovan´s creativity. A well researched booklet with overview of Donovan´s career during those years is also included.
Donovan´s brilliant mixture of Celtic roots, Psychedelia, Jazz and Rock, spiced with his incredibly poetic lyrics, was an absolutely unique phenomenon in the Pop / Rock history and no other artist managed to create such a massive body of brilliant songs within such short period of time. His music is as much relevant today as it was at the time it was created and lost nothing of its beauty, vitality or artistic power over time. They certainly don´t make music like that any more!
The only regret, as far as this Box Set is concerned, is the fact that it does not include the brilliant live album "In Concert (The Complete 1967 Anaheim Show)Find albums with this title", which would have made this set even more perfect.
This is an absolutely essential piece of music history, which deserves an honorable place in any serious music collection!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 08/11/2016 | CD 4 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DONOVAN ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
EPIC 773847 (Barcode: 886977384721) ~ UK ~ Folk-Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2010
This excellent Box Set includes three studio albums, recorded between 1967 and 1968 and released on the Epic label, by the great British pioneer of Folk-Rock and later Psychedelia DonovanFind albums by this artist: "Mellow YellowFind albums with this title", "Hurdy Gurdy ManFind albums with this title", and "BarabajagalFind albums by this artist". Donovan´s unique talent fro writing superb melodies, his brilliant vocal delivery and his openness to new musical ideas made his one of the most important British musicians in the late 1960s. Supported by some of Britain´s best musicians at the time, like flautist Harold McNairFind albums by this artist, bassist Danny ThompsonFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist and many others, these albums are all absolute classics of the era. The albums are remastered and packaged in album replicas (mini-sleeves), housed in a cardboard box, and with the attractive price tag this is a tremendous bargain as well. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | FACES ~ 1970-1975: YOU CAN MAKE ME DANCE, SING OR ANYTHING…
RHINO 081227954239 (Barcode: 081227954239) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1975 Released: 2015
This Box Set collects the four studio albums recorded by the legendary British Rock group FacesFind albums by this artist, remastered and expanded with previously unreleased bonus tracks and also including a fifth CD full of bonus material like B-sides, rarities, etc.
Faces were formed in 1969 by members of the iconic Pop / Rock band Small FacesFind albums by this artist, following the departure of their lead singer / vocalist Steve MarriottFind albums by this artist, who left to form the supergroup Humble PieFind albums by this artist. The remaining musicians: keyboardist Ian McLaganFind albums by this artist, bassist Ronnie LaneFind albums by this artist and drummer Kenney JonesFind albums by this artist were joined by guitarist Ronnie WoodFind albums by this artist and vocalist Rod StewartFind albums by this artist, both ex-members of Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist´s group. The new quintet lineup dropped the "Small" part of the group´s name and became Faces, one of the most successful British Rock acts in the first part of the 1970.
Faces released four studio albums: the debut "The First StepFind albums with this title" in 1970 (which in the US was released still under the Small Faces moniker), the second album "Long PlayerFind albums with this title" in 1971, the third album "A Nod Is As Good As A Wink…To A Blind HorseFind albums with this title" in 1971 and finally the fourth album "Ooh La LaFind albums with this title" in 1973. An ill-fated live album followed before Faces finally disbanded in 1975.
In many respects Faces were the epitome of British Rock. They had everything that a great Rock group needed: superb musicianship, sublime songwriting, charismatic and powerful lead singer, years of experience and tons of talent. All those are apparent while listening to the albums in this Box Set, especially from a retrospective viewpoint. The debut album is still full of the Small Faces idiosyncrasies, but the later albums present a new crystallized identity of a group that has its own voice. The fact that Faces used almost exclusively their own original material is also remarkable. And of course they were paying a tribute to the British Blues, with their music being completely soaked in it.
Another strange observation that struck me while listening to these albums is how similar this music is to the music Humble Pie played more or less in parallel. Perhaps Marriott´s departure was indeed premature and Small Faces might have developed into an environment he might have been comfortable with. In any case we can´t turn the wheels of change back and after all we were lucky to enjoy both of these sublime groups.
The music in this Box Set is evidence of how great the music of the Golden Decade was, consistently strengthened with every reissue of music recorded at that time. The dichotomy between this music and the travesty we call music that is being produced today is simply devastating.
This Box Set is an essential capsule of British Rock history, which should not be missed in any serious music collection. Absolute honey to my ears!
| | Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE IMAGINE PROJECT
SONY 771899 (Barcode: 886977189920) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010
One of the advantages of being 70 is that you don´t need to prove yourself any more. This is of course especially true in case of Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, who lists among the greatest Jazz musicians of all time. He was lucky to age well, with his career still intact and what is perhaps even more important he keeps moving forward and changing his musical directions constantly. Hancock never was one of those Jazz musicians, who refuse to leave the lofty pedestal of Jazz "superiority", ignoring whatever is happening in contemporary music. In the last couple of decades Hancock, in parallel to his Jazz activities, recorded projects which pay tribute to other musical phenomena, including Pop and Rock. His "The New StandardFind albums with this title" album presented a collection of contemporary Pop anthems arranged for a Jazz ensemble, His wonderful tribute to the talents of the divine Joni Mitchell ("River: The Joni LettersFind albums with this title") is another of such projects. This project takes thing even a notch further. Hancock invited a group of musicians from all over the world; each and every one of them representing a different aspect of World Music influenced contemporary music and recorded with them new arrangements to some classic Pop songs. Augmented by some of the best Jazz musicians around (drummer Vinnie ColaiutaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, percussionist Alex AcunaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Larry GoldingsFind albums by this artist, bassist Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist and many others) and recorded in many different studios around the world, this is a magical tribute to contemporary music by a Master musician. I absolutely loved every minute of it and I´m sure many of you will too!
Side Note: I have read quite a few reviews of this album published in the few weeks since its release and unfortunately most of them are completely irrelevant, missing the point by a mile. Many people seem to dislike this album for a variety of reasons, simply being completely ignorant to its concept and qualities. As we say around these parts: "The dogs keep barking and the caravan moves on".
| | Updated: 17/06/2016Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAY BLITZ ~ MAY BLITZ / THE 2ND OF MAY
BGO 153 (Barcode: 5017261201539) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 1992
1st and 2nd albums by UK trio May BlitzFind albums by this artist, led by drummer Tony NewmanFind albums by this artist with singer / guitarist James BlackFind albums by this artist and bassist Reid HudsonFind albums by this artist, which appeared briefly on the scene in the early 1970s and disappeared without a trace after releasing these two albums. The albums are remembered chiefly for the fact that both were released on the legendary VertigoFind albums on this label label and in time became highly sought after collector´s items, but the music is also quite excellent, with many proto-Prog elements and early Heavy Rock characteristics, good songwriting (all original material) and solid instrumental work. In fact it is rather surprising, in retrospect, that the group did not become a popular act, as they have all the potential to do so, continuing the "power trio" tradition of CreamFind albums by this artist and many other vastly more successful groups. Of the three group´s members, Newman (who was already a veteran and previously member of the Sounds IncorporatedFind albums by this artist and Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist´s group, continued to reappear on the many recordings made throughout the 1970s. The other two simply vanished from the scene. In retrospect, these two albums are still very much worth investigating, especially for early Prog fans.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL RODGERS ~ MUDDY WATER BLUES
EAGLE 222 (Barcode: 5034504122222) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2002
British vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist is without a doubt the greatest white Blues singer of all times. Since his days as the front man of the legendary FreeFind albums by this artist and in the five decades that followed no other vocalist managed to demonstrate the same level of sensitivity, virtuosity and feeling even remotely close to those of Rodgers. This stunning album, which as the title suggests is a tribute to the great Blues singer / songwriter Muddy WatersFind albums by this artist, finds Rodgers performing the classic material with flare and his usual brilliance. He is accompanied by a horde of great guitarists, all paying tribute to the great Godfather of Blues: Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, David GilmourFind albums by this artist, Buddy GuyFind albums by this artist, Brian MayFind albums by this artist, Steve MillerFind albums by this artist, Gary MooreFind albums by this artist, Trevor RabinFind albums by this artist, Neal SchonFind albums by this artist, SlashFind albums by this artist and a few others. Anything else said about this music is completely redundant – just grab it when you can as this is one of the greatest Blues albums ever recorded!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SEGUE ~ HOLOGRAMS
LYNX 176 (Barcode: 5906395942671) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019
This is the debut album by the Polish ensemble The SegueFind albums by this artist, which comprises of guitarist Robert WierciochFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Karolina WierciochFind albums by this artist, bassist Marcin EssenFind albums by this artist and drummer Szymon PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist. Three other musicians guest on selected tracks. The album presents seven original compositions by Robert and Karolina (authorship is not specifically stated on the album´s artwork, which does specify the date of the recording either – beginners´ blunders).
The music is a mixture or Jazz-Rock Fusion with a dash of Prog and even Rock, which takes no prisoners and kicks ass from the very first note. Like the saying goes, it is one of those albums which start with a full blast and then step on it!
But let´s make no mistakes here – this is far from being just a show off of instrumental abilities by these musicians, although there are enough blood curdling moments, but a highly organized presentation of musical ideas, based on well weaved melodic themes and highly developed sense of Fusion aesthetics, such as one finds for example on albums by Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist and other Masters of the genre.
Robert is definitely the more Prog / Rock personality here, with his superb guitar work and ability to come up with riffs that don´t let the listener to sit on his behind. Listening to his playing is like watching an imaginary documentary about Fusion guitar Masters. Karolina on the other hand is way more Jazz oriented and her piano and keyboards improvisations have a distinct Jazz tinge and wonderful fluidity.
The rhythm section is able to keep up with the two dominant leaders amicably, doing exactly what this music requires, which is to create a steady and solid background base for the lengthy improvisations. Although perfect in every sense and working like clockwork, it does not reach the same level of extrovert expressionism, perhaps rightly so as this might have been a tad too much on the whole. But fans of funky bass and tasty drum rolls will be definitely fully satisfied.
Overall this is a brilliant, highly refreshing album, especially so in view of the fact that both of these genres show advanced stages of decay. Definitely the best Polish Fusion / Prog album of 2019 and hopefully just the first light of more exciting things to come!
| | Updated: 17/01/2020Posted: 17/01/2020 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROD STEWART ~ THE ROD STEWART SESSIONS 1971-1998
WARNER BROS. 081227985387 (Barcode: 081227985387) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1971 - 1998
I have always had a soft spot for Rod StewartFind albums by this artist, ever since I´ve met him when he was the soloist of the legendary Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist group, before he moved on to front FacesFind albums by this artist. The two albums he recorded with Beck and his first two solo albums are still among my favorite Rock albums which I like to revisit from time to time. Stewart´s sensational career spanning more than five decades is an exceptional story of 20th Century music and he still manages to move his audiences now, past his 70th Birthday. Old Rockers die hard and he is one of those who keep the memory of past decades alive. When Stewart started to record the "Great American SongbookFind albums with this title" series, he was viscously ridiculed by "critics", especially those from Jazz circles, who considered his interpretation of standards to be a profanity. In truth Stewart sang these standards better than most contemporary American Jazz singers.
Stewart proved over time that he fits comfortably into a wide variety of formats and genres within the Rock and Pop idioms. His sensitivity to melody and his ability to play around with his voice are truly remarkable and basically unparalleled by any other vocalist. Therefore his position in Rock history is well deserved and fully justified.
This wonderful Box Set is an obvious labor of love, which happens only thanks to dedicated people, who are willing to spend endless hours and move mountains to do what they think is the right thing. In this case producer Andy ZaxFind albums by this artist, who listened for endless hours to the original recording tapes of the albums made by Stewart starting with his third album "Every Picture Tells A StoryFind albums with this title" from 1971 and right through the album "When We Were The New BoysFind albums with this title" from 1998, collecting all the unreleased material from these sessions and presenting them all here, 63 tracks spread over four CDs, all beautifully remastered.
Stewart sings his heart out all the way through, as he always does, with his beautiful and unique throaty voice never letting the listener down. Mind you these are outtakes, alternate takes and other material which is supposed to be of secondary quality and importance, but you would never guess this is the fact, as they are simply all classic Rod Stewart at his best.
The CDs are beautifully packaged in a digibook format with a great booklet describing the music track by track and including many photographs. Stewart´s fans will find this a must of course, as all this material is nowhere else to be found, but honestly this is great Rock music which all music connoisseurs should find interesting.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROD STEWART ~ THE TEARS OF HERCULES
WARNER BROS. 603497842520 (Barcode: 603497842520) ~ UK ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 2021 Released: 2021
This is the thirty-second studio album by the iconic British vocalist / songwriter Rod StewartFind albums by this artist, recorded with a small team of his usual cohorts, which includes keyboardist Kevin SavigarFind albums by this artist, guitarist Emerson SwinfordFind albums by this artist, violinist J`anna JacobyFind albums by this artist, percussionist Julia ThorntonFind albums by this artist and several backing vocalists. The album presents twelve songs, nine of which were co-written by Stewart and Savigar (one also by Swinford) and three are arrangements of songs by other songwriters. The songs are connected into a continuous stream of sound without the usual pauses between them.
I first fell under the spell of Stewart’s idiosyncratic voice when I heard him fronting the Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist group in 1967 and this “love affair” is still very much on. His long and convoluted career produced many albums of various quality, but his vocals always were, and still are, completely amazing and lost nothing of their uniqueness and power, which is pretty astounding. Personally I most enjoy his early albums and The Great American Songbook series, but honestly Stewart never sung a wrong note in his life. He is a superb interpreter of songs written by other great songwriters, and in my book he stands proudly next to another British Rock icon, Joe CockerFind albums by this artist, both born only a few months apart.
This new album, created amidst the pandemic, is one of the best efforts of his late career. The songs are all solid and well written, especially the ballads, and are a true joy to listen to. On a few songs the contemporary arrangements are a tad artificial, and Stewart still sounds the best just accompanied by a piano, like on the title song. His heartbreaking balladry is still completely unappalled.
Overall, for an artist with six decades of musical legacy, Stewart still sounds as sweet and sour as he ever did and combined with the fine songs he sings here, this album is pure unadulterated musical delight. Hats off!
| | Updated: 18/12/2021Posted: 18/12/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | STREETWALKERS ~ DOWNTOWN FLYERS
BGO 542 (Barcode: 5017261205421) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2002
2nd album by British band StreetwalkersFind albums by this artist, founded by two ex-FamilyFind albums by this artist founding members vocalist Roger ChapmanFind albums by this artist and guitarist John WhitneyFind albums by this artist, after Family disbanded. Strictly speaking, it was the first album released under the Streetwalkers moniker, since the previous album was released as Chapman-WhitneyFind albums by this artist and was only entitled "StreetwalkersFind albums with this title", but in time that album was commonly accepted as the first Streetwalkers album and is referred to as such. Although Chapman and Whitney consciously wished to separate themselves from the Prog image associated with Family when they founded the new band, trying to create a more "straight-forward" Rock band, many of the elements which made Family one of the best and most unique bands were inherited. Chapman´s absolutely distinctive voice and vocal delivery was by itself a sufficient factor to distinguish the band from any other and with Whitney´s subtle guitar work and exceptional talent to write tunes that were both rhythmically and melodically quite apart from most Rock songs made Streetwalkers a great band. They drafted another singer / guitarist Bob TenchFind albums by this artist (ex-Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist group), who was responsible for the Rocky side of things and an excellent rhythm section, which kept the band kicking. Guest keyboardist also participated in the recording to expand the group´s sound. Unfortunately Streetwalkers somehow never really "made it", with their albums selling poorly, which eventually led to their demise, but their recorded legacy remains to this very day as an excellent example of sophisticated British Rock, which combines quality music with great delivery. This is a must to all Family fans, who will find the music a logical continuation to the Family´s output.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | RYSZARD SYGITOWICZ ~ BEZ GRAWITACJI
GAD 029 (Barcode: 5901549197372) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1983 - 1984 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of an instrumental album by Polish guitarist / composer Ryszard SygitowiczFind albums by this artist, which was recorded during several sessions for the Polish Radio and released on a small independent label WifonFind albums on this label in 1985, achieving quite unexpectedly a big success on the local market at the time. This album includes, in addition to the nine tracks that were included on the original album, four bonus tracks originating from the same sessions. The music was recorded mostly in a trio format with bassist Arkadiusz ZakFind albums by this artist and drummers Dariusz SygitowiczFind albums by this artist or Wojciech MorawskiFind albums by this artist. Renowned Polish Jazz saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks and percussionist Adam LewandowskiFind albums by this artist on one track.
The music is a refined instrumental guitar oriented Jazz-Rock Fusion, which is comparable to similar efforts by Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist and many others and by all means not inferior to any of them. Sygitowicz has a great talent to weave wonderfully melodic themes and play them on his guitar with great feel, tone and skill. As a result these tracks sound as great today as they did at the time they were recorded, losing nothing of their validity over time.
Over the years Sygitowicz was a member of several Polish Rock ensembles and a busy session musician, which resulted in his leaving a mark on dozens of releases by numerous Polish recording artists. He is still very active on the local scene after spending some time in the USA in the late 1980s. In retrospect this album is still a highlight of his career and thanks to the splendid work of GADFind albums on this label Records we are able to enjoy this fabulous music again. Guitar connoisseurs and classic Jazz-Rock Fusion fans should have a field day with this gem!
| | Updated: 20/02/2016Posted: 20/02/2016 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | VANILLA FUDGE ~ MYSTERY
MUSIC ON CD 14277 (Barcode: 8718627235720) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2023
This is a reissue of the 6th album by the American Rock group Vanilla FudgeFind albums by this artist, recorded after a fifteen years long gap following the recording of their previous album. It was recorded by the original lineup of the group, which consisted of lead vocalist / organist Mark SteinFind albums by this artist, guitarist Vince MartellFind albums by this artist, bassist Tim BogertFind albums by this artist and drummer Carmine AppiceFind albums by this artist. Two additional guitar players were added: Ron MancusoFind albums by this artist, who plays on most tracks and Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist (under the J. ToadFind albums by this artist moniker), who plays on two tracks. The album presents ten tracks, eight of which are originals by the group members and two are arrangements of Pop songs.
The music world changed dramatically since the release of their previous album and by the time this album was released the music it contained was as out of sync with the then current scene as one can imagine, which meant that despite the fact that the music was first rate Classic Rock, the album had no chance whatsoever to succeed and the album was quickly forgotten.
Overall, in retrospect this is a fine collection of songs splendidly performed by these excellent musicians, and is certainly worthy being cherished by true Rock enthusiasts, who still remember what real music sounds like.
| | Updated: 11/03/2025Posted: 11/03/2025 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | YARDBIRDS ~ BIRDLAND
FAVORED NATIONS 2280 (Barcode: 690897228023) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
Forty years after The YardbirdsFind albums by this artist ruled the British Rhythm And Blues scene for a while and than splintered into several seminal Rock and Prog bands like Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist, Jeff Beck GroupFind albums by this artist and RenaissanceFind albums by this artist, to mention just a few, here they are again alive and kicking. The original founding members Jim McCartyFind albums by this artist and Chris DrejaFind albums by this artist drafted three younger musicians: guitarist Gypie MayoFind albums by this artist, vocalist and bassist John IdanFind albums by this artist and harmonica player Alan GlenFind albums by this artist and reunited the Yardbirds to record this album, which includes several re-makes of classic Yardbirds material and a nice batch of new songs written by the band members. I´m usually skeptical about reunions, being right most of the time, this album however works amazingly well, as if time stood still (which is a good thing) for all these years and The Yardbirds never disbanded at all. Mayo plays some amazing guitar licks and easily joins the Yardbirds lead guitarists list (Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist & Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist), the songs smoke from start to finish and the entire album simply kicks ass. Some spectacular guest guitar players add solos as well: Jeff Beck, Steve VaiFind albums by this artist, Joe SatrianiFind albums by this artist, Brian MayFind albums by this artist and others. Definitely no regrets here – a must!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | YARDBIRDS ~ THE ULTIMATE LIVE AT THE BBC
REPERTOIRE 1464 (Barcode: 4009910146422) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1965 - 1968 Released: 2024
This is a 4CD Box Set, which collects all known live BBC recordings by the seminal British Rock group The YardbirdsFind albums by this artist, recorded between March 1965 and March 1968, presenting ninety tracks, twenty-eight of which are previously unreleased. As usual with BBC recordings, the sound quality (in most cases) is absolutely stunning, considering the equipment that existed at the time.
For some strange reason The Yardbirds seem to be almost completely forgotten these days, but considering the fact that during the first period of their existence between 1963 and 1968 they had among their ranks the three top British lead guitar players of all time: Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist and Jimmy PageFind albums by this artist and they were de facto the origin of Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist. The lineup, which recorded the music on this Box Set, includes vocalist Keith RelfFind albums by this artist, drummer Jim McCartyFind albums by this artist, rhythm guitarist Chris DrejaFind albums by this artist, bassist Paul Samwell-SmithFind albums by this artist and Beck or Page on lead guitar. When Samwell-Smith quit in 1966, Dreja became the bassist and the group continued as a quartet. Clapton is not playing on any of the BBC recordings, despite the fact that some other releases claim the contrary.
Listening to the chronologically organized material is like watching a documentary, which explicitly explains how British Rock developed from the humble roots of copying American Blues and Rhythm And Blues, into a full-fledged British Rock, with exquisite new original material and way of expression, which influenced everything that happened in the years to come. The last track in this collection is no other than “Dazed And Confused”, which of course explains how things proceeded from where the first incarnation of The Yardbirds disbanded.
Overall, this is a brilliant piece of musical document, which deserves to be heard by every serious music lover, in order to comprehend how Rock music developed in UK. Although a large portion of these tracks were previously released already, it’s a neat way to have a complete collection in one Box Set. The package includes a booklet with historical notes, which sadly I find lacking the proper historical perspective, but they do offer a lot of details, which I find less interesting. It is a collector’s treasure trove by all means!
| | Updated: 23/08/2024Posted: 23/08/2024 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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