"Nice & Greasy" is an appropriate title for this album. Not only was
the familiar progressive rock sound in place, the soulful and funky
vocals of Chris Farlowe continued to influence their sound as it did
on "Made In England." Although their sound was getting more blues
influenced it continued to progress despite the changes. It was indeed
absolutely nice n' greasy, albeit maturely.
This is the fifth Atomic Rooster album I have listened to and I have
experienced great pleasure doing so. What I found attention-grabbing
and entrancing was listening to the various incarnations of the group
with the incredible keyboard player Vincent Crane steering the Rooster
ship. His Hammond B-3 organ was ever present and always influential
in the final outcome of each song, with this album being no exception to that rule.
"Voodoo in You" is a shining opportunity for new guitar player Johnny
Mandala to show his wares, and he really seizes the moment by giving
Crane some great biting chords to wrap his spirited keyboard playing
around. "Take One Toke" leads off side two in a big way. It's the
best track on the album, combining the strengths of each band member
effectively and mightily without any compromise. Crane was never one
to negotiate his music in any way, and this final effort for this
lineup gave their fans another classic Atomic Rooster LP to covet
and cherish for the years to come. Personally, I think this version
of the group was the best, mainly because of Chris Farlowe's vocal
prowess. He added so much soul and heart to the group. What I found
so remarkable is that they kept their core sound intact while going
with the flow of changes smoothly, which in turn kept the old fans
happy and gained new ones along the way. This music always leaves
me wanting for more. Thanks to these great reissues the interest in
the group has be enlivened and they have got the kind of respect and
reverence that they always deserved.
Side One
1. All Across the Country (Crane) - 5:05
2. Save Me (Crane) - 3:15
3. Voodoo in You (Avery)- 7:05
4. Moods (Crane) - 4:23
Side Two
1. Take One Toke (Crane) - 4:58
2. Can't Find a Reason (Crane) - 4:25
3. Ear in the Snow (Crane) - 6:12
4. What Ya Gonna Do (C. Farlowe) - 5:20
