ASHKAN/IN FROM THE COLD DNR-1 (-69) UK MONO

 

 Can't find much about this band or the making of the LP. Vocalist Steve Bailey earlier played drums in a gang called "Starfighters" and from the early eighties and on he's contributed to a number of different albums in various genres, mostly as a bass player. Bob Weston became a member of Fleetwood Mac 1972-73 and lead guitarist on the "Penguin" album. This one-off has been much frowned upon by critics and others. I don't understand why. Most of it is borderline disturbing...in a very good way. Shrilling guitars and Baily's hoarce vocals to mostly dark drum/bass background, seemingly recorded on four channels without later meddling makes it a blistering example of pristine hard rock, before make-up and mellowing studio equipment took over. No mercy, just attack. This mono is with all certainy a fold, but sounds great. I like it all, especially when it gets downright evil. Three speciments below. 1969 vinyl issues on Decca in a couple of European countries and in  US on Sire (SES 97017). UK CD on Grapefruit Records (CRSEG 013).  Premiere UK mono had label as shown here in a laminated cover with red rim inner. UK stereo (SDNR-1) came on bright blue label with blue rim inner.  (DÄN*)  (YMÖ*)