REVIEW: The Sensational Alex Harvey Band

"Next... The Sensational Alex Harvey Band" is an edgy blues-powered album. With a mixture of genres, this album is sure to please anyone who was ever a fan of the early rock-and-roll songs of the 70's.

His Blues influence are dominant in the songs "Swamp Snake" and "Vambo Marble Eye", while songs like "Gang Bang" and "Giddyup a Ding Dong" provide comic relief with melodies that are reminscent of early Clash styles. "Faith Healer" is a seven minute-long song showing his true range of styles, while "Goodnight Irene" is an excellent rendition of the traditional song. "Say You're Mine" is a twangy country tune, while "Gamblin' Bar Room Blues" combines traditional blues influences with a Bob Dylan lyrical quality to the song.

This album must figure in any audiophile's collection. The version I have includes 5 bonus tracks, with over one hour of music.

Alex Harvey was born in Scotland in 1935, started playing trumpet professionally at the age of 19, and released his first single under the title Alex Harvey And His Soul Band in 1964. Since then, he has sung lead vocals and played both harmonica and guitar for over a dozen albums. Alex Harvey's tragic death in 1982 did not deter the band's cult status, as fans rallied together to support the remaining band members. His last written album, Solider On The Wall is released posthumously.