DEATH WALKS BEHIND YOU

Some old f%µers (hope you got it) as I am, do feel some positive feelings in reviewing such an album from AR. Not because it is a masterpiece, no. Maybe because it is more of an album of certain era. The genuine and very early seventies. The best years of my musical life ... (well almost).

The great psychedelia of their debut is still to be noticed during the incredible opener Death Walks Behind You which sets the tone. And the band is really kicking your arse with a wild and instrumental track (Vug). This is the type of song which should immediately turn you on. A fabulous atmosphere, wild sounds. A gorgeous instrumental from another era. Maybe one of the best of its genre. Can't really remember a better one (not even Purple).

These two tracks are really phenomenal and to sustain this quality is almost impossible...

But the Rooster are keeping and rocking on. The whole of this album is a true hard-rock gem. One of the best that has ever been recorded. Of course the best ever was also released that same year (In Rock), but Death Walks Behind You holds several FANTASTIC songs that you should listened to carefully. On the edge of the hard-heavy style. But I loved both of them at the time (yes, I know: I am quite an old freak).

Streets is a true ANTHEM of rock music. You really have to listen to such a jewel of an organ solo to fully appreciate this track. A (nother) jewel. Don't forget that the band had to live with the departure of two key members (of which Carl Palmer) and they just performed incredibely.

This album is awesome, heavy, and gorgeous. It only lacks in true legendary tracks to be compared with the greatest ones of the genre. But you should have a listen to this very good album. It offers such a fine hard rock and intelligent music. Skilled musicians, exploding keyboards. You should listen to the wonderful drum solo during the excellent Gershatzer. An excellent musical experience.

I know that it was impossible to replace Carl, but have a listen to the closing number and its SUPERB drum solo. IMPRESSIVE my prog friends.

Four stars.