MOLLY HATCHET The Deed Is Done
Gott Discs GOTTCD033 (2006)
1984 and the album that really saved Molly Hatchet, and introduced them to MTV at the same time.
The previous 3 albums had had their moments (the classic epic Fall Of The Peacemakers) but overall had been lacking. This album cleared away the cobwebs, flushed out the stodge. While some critics labelled it AOR, it's actually just more polished (thanks to a change of producer), well worked, clean shaven. Think what Eliminator did to ZZ Top, only better.
With a full time keyboard player on board (John Galvin, still in the current line-up), vocalist Danny Joe Brown (RIP) on top form and guitarists Dave Hlubek and Duane Roland both blistering, it's a great album.
'Satisfied Man' and 'Stone In Your Heart' are must hears, the latter a hit and a wonderful Hatchet moment, and 'She Does' features some very well worked saxophone.
'Man On The Run' is classic Southern Rock and the touches of slide with Riff West's bass playing making for a great song.
Covers of 'Heartbreak Radio' and 'I Ain't Got You' fit in well too.
Sadly Geoff Barton's sleevenotes don't always get to the point and make a few factual errors. Classic Rock writers make out they know best but it isn't always the case.
That shouldn't detract from the fact this classic album is once again available.
****½
Review by Joe Geesin
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