CLARK HUTCHINSON/RETRIBUTION SML 1076 (-70) UK

  Multi-instrumentalists Mick Hutchinson and Andy Clark started as members in the UK underground outfit Sam Gopal's Dream, whereafter they formed the band Vamp 1968 with drummer Viv Prince (earlier in Pretty Things), which eventually reshaped into Clark Hutchinson, here with Del Coverley on percussion and Steve Amazing on bass. For more on the band check post on their first released LP "A=MH2"   https://monolover.blogspot.com/2013/03/clark-hutchinsonamh2-dnr-2-69-uk-mono.html and the follow-up to this - "Gestalt" -  https://monolover.blogspot.com/2012/09/clark-hutchinsongestalt-sml-1090-71-uk.html . They were a lot into drugs during this period and, according to Hutchinson, lost a record deal because they were so speeded they couldn´t play. I had contact with him some years ago. He showed to be a nice and funny man, still playing lots of good guitar, but didn't remember much about the recordings and issues back then. To my taste this album is very good garage. I get the impression of a live studio gig filled with improvisations, few overdubs and minimum production, all performed with great skill. The audio is direct, has that "being there" feeling I like so much. Best track is "Free To Be Stoned" - the ultimate drug epic - simple and catchy, yet raw and with tons of great guitar. This is a vinyl I never let go. 1970 vinyl issued also in US (Deram DES 18055), Gemany and Israel (PAX ISK 1082). EU CD on Repertoire Records (PMS 7088-WP). First UK had label as shown here in a laminated cover. (DÄRR*)