MANFRED MANN'S EARTH BAND

Dear old Manfred has already several albums behind his back with the original "Manfred Mann" group prior to this one. It was a successful pop band from the mid sixties who has produced several hit-singles ("Ah Ah Said The Clown").

This album is not yet as proggy as some of his later and great work (mainly "Solar Fire" of course). On this album, the band dig in some R&B and soul music ("Captain Bobby Shout"). Very close to some "Vanilla Fudge" numbers. Great moog solo and repetitive riff. One of the best here.

"Tribute" is also a pleasant instrumental, somewhat psychedelic as well. There are some basic rock songs featured on this debut ("Please Ms. Henry" or "Prayer") which aren't really catchy.

The soul / bluesy influences are noticeable and over invading to my taste during several tracks ("Jump Study"). Still, a nice guitar solo is punctuating this song. But the piano based Part Time Man and "Up & Leaving" are very weak.

You shouldn't bother too much with this debut album. The Earth's Band, will score significantly higher later on. Two stars.