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 The celebrated Akkerman first delivers marvelous funky chords and then launches into an ultra-melodious and rich solo.

 The album could have been released as a single, without these two extended self-indulgences, thus increasing compactness and consistency.

Focus III by the Dutch band Focus offers a distinctive progressive rock experience highlighted by the baroque-inspired instrumental 'Sylvia.' The album features virtuosic performances and a live, natural studio feel but is somewhat diluted by long, indulgent jam sessions. Fans of 70s rock and fusion will appreciate the blend of classical, jazz, and rock elements, though the album's compositional consistency is uneven. A must-listen for those who enjoy technically skilled and experimental music of that era. Explore Focus III to experience a classic blend of progressive rock and jazz fusion from a uniquely talented 70s band!

 "Doot Doot (the song), placed right at the start of the album, is irresistibly captivating."

 This is a truly unmissable peak of the time's commercial new wave.

Freur's debut album 'Doot-Doot' marked an electrifying entry into 80s electronic pop, with the title track standing out as a captivating hit. Though follow-up singles lacked similar impact, the album maintains quality and showcases the band's innovative sound. Their transition to Underworld came after their second album underperformed, but 'Doot-Doot' remains a noteworthy new wave classic. Listen to Freur's iconic 'Doot-Doot' and explore the roots of one of electronic pop's pioneering bands!

 Banks was the one who coined the name Yes among other things, giving his best and building a good reputation with valid live performances.

 With the quartet of Flash, Peter managed to pick up where the early Yes left off: still progressive music, articulated and super arranged but fluid and 'light', seeking groove rather than grandeur.

This review highlights Peter Banks’ significant role in the progressive rock band Flash, focusing on their 1973 album 'Out Of Our Hands.' It praises Banks’ clean yet creative guitar work and the band’s fluid, groove-oriented approach, contrasting it with his earlier work in Yes. The album, while starting slow, ultimately delivers imaginative compositions enriched by strong performances from the rhythm section. The review also notes the modest yet interesting cover art by Hipgnosis. Discover the overlooked gem of progressive rock with Flash's 'Out Of Our Hands'—listen now and appreciate Peter Banks' masterful guitar work!

 The jewel of the album... titled "Cinderella"... it’s country rock at its best, exquisite soft American music.

 Firefall, who managed to keep high, still for a few years alongside the poor Dan Fogelberg, the now faded flag of country rock.

This review praises Firefall's 1976 debut album as a standout example of country rock that avoids clichés. The band is recognized for its talented lineup and rich harmonies, with highlights including the tracks "Cinderella" and "You Are The Woman." It situates Firefall alongside Eagles and Poco as key figures in the genre, noting their continued influence despite being less known internationally. Overall, it's a serious and appreciative look at a classic record. Dive into Firefall's timeless debut and experience the golden era of country rock today!

 Some of the selected performances are real tour de force, stuff close to twenty minutes, excessively elongated by various improvisations and indulgences of the involved soloists.

 The essence of rock is fully captured in these ten minutes of Cactus, a group that couldn’t compose and didn’t know how to sell themselves but that... shows what stuff you have to be made of to thrill people with rock.

This review analyzes the 1971 triple album capturing performances from the 1970 Atlanta Pop and Isle of Wight festivals. While historically significant and featuring legendary artists like Hendrix, the album suffers from poor selection and recording quality. Lengthy improvisations sometimes detract from the listening experience, though standout moments from bands like Cactus shine through. Overall, it offers an atmospheric glimpse into a pivotal era despite its flaws. Explore this iconic but flawed live album to dive deep into the spirit of 1970’s rock festivals and discover rare performances.

 The perception of the sextet as a band of generic American hard/metal rock... is not yet justified here: Hatchet’s first album is pure and tough southern rock.

 'Gator Country' is one of its apexes if you like multi-layered rock-blues guitar.

Molly Hatchet's 1978 debut album delivers powerful Southern Rock with aggressive rhythms and layered guitar work. The album channels the spirit of Lynyrd Skynyrd while carving its own identity. Standout tracks include the guitar-driven 'Gator Country' and a dynamic cover of 'Dreams I'll Never See.' The album remains a significant and inspired work from late 1970s rock, capturing passion and raw energy. Listen to Molly Hatchet's fierce Southern Rock debut and experience the powerful guitar mastery and vocal grit that defined a classic era!

 The collaboration between the virtuoso instrumentalist and the gifted singer works: Morse’s typical guitar themes gain warmth and find completion when complemented by Walsh’s spirited verses.

 To love this track, one must possess a taste for pomp, the redundant, the thundering, in short, one must appreciate Kansas in their deepest sense.

Kansas' tenth album 'Power' marks a clear move towards 80s pop-metal and melodic rock, dropping its progressive roots and violin presence. The addition of Steve Morse on guitar and the return of frontman Steve Walsh energize the sound. The album mixes fiery guitar solos with strong vocal performances, showcasing versatility and accessible rock. Highlights include 'Silhouettes in Disguise' and the powerful closing track 'Can't Cry Anymore'. 'Power' stands out as one of Kansas' most approachable works. Dive into Kansas' 'Power' and experience a masterful blend of 80s melodic rock and guitar virtuosity—listen now!

 Mark’s bass playing is a killer groove, very percussive but not intrusive, combined with warm, relaxed singing—a truly difficult combination to put together, yet achieved with amazing naturalness.

 "Staring At The Sun" suffers from the drummer change compared to the albums that preceded it... Phil’s style is inimitable, fluid, full of dead notes and all those little taps here and there on the kit.

The review recognizes Level 42's musicianship and the unique talent of Mark King, highlighting their versatility from pop to sophisticated grooves. It critiques the departure of original drummer Phil Gould, feeling the replacement lacked groove finesse. The album contains standout tracks like "Take A Look," "Silence," "Man," and "Gresham Blues," the latter a poignant farewell to late guitarist Alan Murphy. Overall, the album feels lighter and less potent than earlier works but remains skillfully crafted. Discover the intricate grooves and heartfelt moments on Level 42's 'Staring At The Sun'—listen now and explore their unique 80s funk-pop fusion!

 The sound and instrumental quality of the three concert tracks is far better than that of the remaining five recorded in the studio!

 It’s the best simultaneous solo of guitars that I know! Truly worth listening to.

Point Blank's fourth album, The Hard Way, focuses on a tougher southern rock style with strong blues roots. The standout live tracks, including a powerful cover of Highway Star, showcase the band's energetic stage presence and guitar skills. The studio tracks also impress, especially with distinctive simultaneous guitar solos. Despite some limitations in the studio sound, the album remains a rare and valuable piece for southern rock fans. Listen to Point Blank’s The Hard Way for raw southern rock energy and exceptional guitar mastery!

 Marshall is an extremely American group if there ever was one, with all the good and bad this might suggest to the personal musical taste of fans.

 "Can't You See" is six minutes of sublime made in USA ballad, with perpetual and tireless charm.

The review highlights The Marshall Tucker Band's debut album as a standout Southern rock record with strong country and blues influences. It praises Toy Caldwell's leadership and unique guitar technique, along with the band's distinctive use of flute and saxophone. Signature tracks like "Can’t You See" and "Ramblin'" are celebrated for their enduring charm and musicianship. The album is regarded as a quintessential American Southern rock work with rich stylistic nuances. Dive into The Marshall Tucker Band's debut and experience Southern rock's finest blend of country, blues, and jazz today!