INTERACTION - THE JODY GRIND ANTHOLOGY

Interaction is by far the best way to discover the hidden talents of this obscure band from 1969/70 (unless of course you prefer to pay vast sums of money for the rare original vinyl albums). This collection brings together the band's only two albums plus a trio of "bonus tracks". There is nothing rare as such in the bonus tracks, two simply being single edits and the third an alternative version. With the absence of unreleased material, this double CD release is relatively brief, the first disc containing only the first album and thus coming in at under 40 minutes.

The music is refreshingly original and dynamic especially on the first album "One step on" (and more especially the two opening tracks of that album). If ever a band placed their best number right up front, it is here on the 18+ minute title track. The combination of organ, lead guitar and brass arrangement all contribute to an immensely powerful sound which drives along with energy and enthusiasm.

The second album saw a complete change in the line up, with the exception of band leader Tim Hinkley. Hinkley pulled the band is a more orthodox rock direction, the numerous 7 minutes tracks being more straightforward in structure and devoid of the brass arrangements which distinguished the first album. The music remains well performed and accomplished, but in general it lacks the spark which propelled the magnificent debut.

In all, a great way to discover this sadly forgotten band from the early days of prog.