GROUNDHOGS Scratching The Surface
BGO BGOCD701
After several years on the road, as a band and supporting the
legendary John Lee Hooker, some unsuccessful singles, the Groundhogs
recorded this debut set in 1968, live.
With the white blues boom at its peak, the Groundhogs were already a
name band and this album quickly cemented their reputation. Led by
singer and guitarist Tony McPhee, this earthy blues/rock set
featured 9 uptempo and often gritty numbers, augmented by
Mike `Womble' Batt's production.
The sound is bolstered by Steve Rye's harmonica, and the rhythm
section of Pete Cruikshank and Ken Pustelnik are solid throughout.
Rockin' Chair and Married Men stand out, showing what a truly great
blues guitarist McPhee is.
A good debut, which set the template for the early 70s classics. A
damn good start.
***½
Review by Joe Geesin
Book review
DVD review
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