Legendary 60’s band have their first two classic albums re-released on one disc by UK based Track Records. The line-up was Dickie Peterson (bass/vocals), Paul Whaley (drums) and Leigh Stevens (guitar) and when their debut album was released it must have been mind blowing! Nothing like it had been out before - heavy blues rock with awesome power riffing.

The infamous cover of Eddie Cochran’s ‘Summertime Blues’ (a top ten US hit) starts the CD off in style and bar the underlying riff, bears no resemblance to the original. Blue Cheer are very intense and heavy, Dickie Peterson has a strong vocal and guitarist Leigh Stevens really goes ‘out there’ in his soloing. ‘Doctor Please’ is real trip rock - you would need outside ‘influences’ to come-up with this! ‘Gypsy Ball’ from ‘Outside Inside’ wouldn’t look out of place on a Uriah Heep album. They also cover the Stones ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction’ bringing it into a psychedelic sphere along with crashing drums. Sterling version of the blues classic, ‘The Hunter’ as well (later covered by Free) - plenty of guitar and distorted bass on here.

These two albums have lost none of their power and rawness over the years. An essential part of any rock collection and an influence on Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Motorhead amongst others.

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Related>> Dickie Peterson Interview

Related>> Live In Japan CD review

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Review by Jason Ritchie