TEAR GAS-TEAR GAS-

The second album from this Scottish outfit, originated from Glasgow bears the Foundation what later would become The Sensational Alex Harvey Band. Released in 1971 this is a Hard/prog/Heavy rock album with few memorable higlights but yet an interesting mix of songs Worth to explore.

Known as “Mustard” in the beginnig, this album cemented their reputation in the underground scene. Former member Wullie Monroe left the band. Ted McKenna from the freshly collapsed Dream Police replaced on bass. Eddie Campbell quit for whatever reason and was not instantly replaced. Alex Harvey got a guestspot as musician and there are uncredited keyboard from Ronnie Leahy on different places on the album. The album was released on the Regal Zonaphone label and has a great production to it. A solid soundframe appears but the songs never reach the mountain peak, though the material is above avarage. This is probably the main reason for the lack of sales succes.

Whatabout the drummer, Ted McKenna?? This bloke is a Heavy input with avarage striking and familiar delivery. Nothing great to bring home to the kitchen table and a weak fit for this outfit. Perhaps Another drummer would have pushed the band into another level of performance?? Hard to say, but here´s nothing that will go down in history as in great performance.

This album is for the one who just can´t get enough all those pre/hard/prog/Heavy albums from the early´70´s. As a historical timepiece this is a great rock album and Believe me when I say that there are worse albums out there. I just can´t give a go ahead on purchase but please explore, especially “Love Story”…Outstanding tune…  🙂

VINYLRATING/GRADE

-5-OK!-WORTH EXPLORING-