Here's a late 70s Fulci effort that is vintage Giallo. It's not quite as vital as Argento's "Deep Red" but is solid and unpredictable. Take a weekend and watch this along w/similar films like "Perfume Of The Lady In Black" or anything by Larraz. Best viewed after dark in some candle light w/a strong brew handy.
This one flows like a concept album and features some tight playing along w/the vocals of Rod Evans of Deep Purple Mark 1. Find their 2nd release as well. CB's 3rd album changed singers but kept the heavy, progressive playing at a high standard. Hey, maybe 'classic rock' or satellite radio should get a clue and spin this disc sometime!
This is a great album by Pretty Things. No one in North America seems to know who these guys are. Do some research and seek out their catalog if you want some rock and roll that stands proudly next to the legacy left by The Who or the Stones. Savage Eye features some confident hard rock played w/a cocky & almost glammy edge. However make no mistake that this band slays any glam posers who put image before music. A nice comparison could be the brilliant Mott the Hoople.
What's great about it: classy, under-heard hard rock
What's not so great: ignored by 'classic rock' radio
This album is an early EB release highlited by mournful vocals and some caustic lyrics. One can hear the culture of the time in the tone here: Vietnam ("American Boy Soldier"), free love ("Love in the Rain"), etc. Some of the more bizarre moments remind one of Arthur Brown or Jim Morrison. Musically there's no easy label but it is intense and would appeal to fans of early Tull, Savoy Brown, Pink Fairies, et al
What's great about it: against the grain gut bucket rock
What's not so great: unknown on "classic rock" radio, VH1, etc
Plastic People is one of many Birth Control releases you should have if you want some sinister sounding hard progressive rock. I would say fans of Heep, Rooster, Sabbath, Purple, etc would dig BC. They still unleash "Trial Trip" live in concert as per recent live CDs from BC.
What's great about it: underrated German band
What's not so great: no press over here in North America
Neon Rose plays a blistering axe driven brand of hard rock. They compare favorably w/early Priest, Lizzy, or Wishbone Ash. However, I hate comparisons because Neon Rose has their own sound and should be sought out by those who crave something classy, heavy, and unburdened by big label sell-out pressures. I've read that they toured w/Nazareth and Purple, among others, and I bet they gave em a run for their $$$.
What's great about it: Swedish hard rock under the radar
This is a must hear for fans of classy and inventive progressive rock. Nektar sold a lot of albums in the 70s from what I've read, and they should be hyped as much as ELP, Genesis, Yes, etc. This CD sounds great and despite the 2 lengthy tracks one doesn't lose interest or focus at all. Has a positive and symphonic vibe that reminds me of stuff like "Supper's Ready" or "Karn Evil 9". Find their other stuff as well--especially A Tab In The Ocean.
2CDs of live Jack Bruce Band features strong songs and some great jamming. The playing is brilliant and Jack incorporates his jazz roots to the hard edge rock he created w/Cream. Could Jack be the greatest bassist ever? Just give a listen!
Comes w/a detailed booklet w/cool background info.
This allstar band's 2nd LP (now CD) contains some glittering moments (November Song, R&R Machine, Like A Plate). It's not quite as strong overall as "Why Dontcha" but still worthy when compared to a lot of overhyped 70s bands. November Song (spelled incorrectly as 'Sand' in this track listing) could have fit nicely on early Jack Bruce solo work like "Out of the Storm." "Backfire" is pure Mountain highlited by Leslie's gravel-voiced delivery.
What's great about it: nice remaster w/groovy booklet
What's not so great: band fizzled out quick in the 70s
This one and "Tooth, Fang, and Claw" display early guitar driven rumblings that would lead to the legendary stuff Uncle Ted would unleash on the public. These latter day Amboy Dukes LPs weren't as well produced as the CBS Records soon to come but darn it they still have a mean, mountain man attitude. I sense a wild, southern rawk vibe in the air. It would behoove one to play this CD loud while at the hunting camp w/the boys sometime in the depths of a crisp autumn nite. Also required listening: "Loaded For Bear" and "Marriage on the Rocks."
What's great about it: unknown Amboy-era Ted
What's not so great: goes in & outta print all the time