VANILLA FUDGE [AKA: YOU KEEP ME HANGING ON]

One of the first prog rock records I ever bought, this one. And that was because I heard Kim Wilde's million selling version of Keep Me Hanging On on the radio. That is about 25 years ago or so. Vanilla Fudge also did a version of this song and it is on this album. I therefore bought this album.

I believe this album is a mix of cover songs (including The Beatles very own Ticket To Ride and Eleanor Rigby) and own songs (?). Vanilla Fudge's version of Ticket To Ride, which opens this album, is pretty standard. Their version of Eleanor Rigby is radically different though and an aquired taste. Eleanor Rigby is also one of my alltime favorite songs (it is one of the best ever pieces of music written) and I have to admit I prefer the original version. What Vanilla Fudge has done with Eleanor Rigby and the other songs here is to introduce more soul and zest into the songs. They have added the Tamla Motown sound (the vocals) and some heavy organs. Both performed by Mark Stein. Which adds a heck of a lot to songs like Eleanor Rigby and You Keep Me Hanging On. The latter one is the best song on the album and a very powerful song which can be compared to Joe Cocker's version of With A Little Help From My Friends (Woodstock version). I believe this album was pretty revolutionary when released. Vanilla Fudge became a very big band at that time and it's drummer Carmine Appice have played with Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath and all the great bands from that time and to this date. I believe he is still touring with, among others, Vanilla Fudge.

This album is a bit of a shock to the system for most here. The sound and music is very much proto-prog and unique. Vanilla Fudge was an unique band and pioneers in their own right. The result of their work was among others; progressive rock. Just listen to this album and you will understand.

The quality of the music, when taken out of it's historical context, is very good. This album has it's flaws, but it still stands up to the scrutiny of 20/20 hindsights anno 2011. I happens to like this album when dusting it off (it was like a snow storm in my office). It is recommended to those who love the early sound of progressive rock. Those who also love heavy prog will find a friend in this album. The blueprint for heavy prog was also laid down on this album.

Good stuff !

3.5 stars