THEM HT-1004 (-70) US

 

  Don't be fooled by the name. Four years after Van Morrison left the only original member here would be bassist Alan Hendersson and the rest played by studio musician Jerry Cole (who also worked with Beach Boys, Byrds and Phil Spector's Wrecking Crew) handeling guitars, drums and lead vocals. If so it could as well have been tagged as a Jerry Cole solo LP, but it was probably assessed that the name "Them" would lead to bigger sales. It didn't and listening today it has almost nothing in common with the old band. This is not so much melodic catchy r/b. Instead you get a good chunk reckless garage psych with screamy vocals, pumping drums and scorching fuzz guitars. A couple of the songs are calmer - like the cover of Rolling Stones "I Am Waiting" - but the apt part right-on gritty garage. I wouldn't call it all magic though there are moments that, together with the attack and atmosphere, at least makes it worth while for this old garage lover.  Favorite tracks - the Jerry Cole-penned songs "I Keep Singing" and "Memphis Lady".  Originally only released in US and Canada. EU vinyl reissue on Klimt Records (MJJ 314). UK 2008 CD on Fallout (FOCD 2100). Premier US had label as shown here in a glossy cover.   (YZÄ*)  (VMÖ*)