Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Something's Gonna On...


John Fred & his Playboys tend to be remembered mainly for the hit'Judy in Disguise', one of my favourite singles from the late '60s. Sadly ignorant of his actual albums I went looking and usenet kindly provided, as it usually does.
34:40 of John Fred, their second album, was released in 1967 (iTunes suggests it might more accuractly be titled called 34:20...) the year before he hit big with that aforementioned hit. There's a few covers on the record (Otis Redding, Animals, the Beatles), but they deliver well enough. This album was evidently a flop back in '67, which perhaps might not be too surprising considering the other notable albums released that year. This is fairly straight forward rock and roll. Highlights are 'Sun City' and 'Down To The Boogalo'. Definitely worth checking out.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Bring Me My Shotgun



Bring Me My Shotgun: The Apartment Demos is an acoustic set of early recordings from the late Ron "Pigpen" McKernan of the Grateful Dead. Recorded in San Francisco in 1966, the quality isn't bad considering the home recording. Blues, gospel and soul were always Pigpen's best contribution to the band, and this is what you get here, just him and his guitar. It's not essential listening to a casual listener but fans of the Dead, particularly Pigpen's contributions, will definitely enjoy it. Pairs well with a glass of Southern Comfort and a dark room.