Mountain
Twin Peaks

THE REVIEW

I write this review almost indignantly because no one has bothered to review a group perhaps too underrated, such as Mountain. Their brief career lasted from 1969 to 1971, followed by the reunion in 1973 from which this live recording emerged during that Reunion tour, in Japan in Osaka. 

The album starts with one of their early hits, namely "Never In My Life," rendered much faster and more aggressive by the hefty West. At the end of this performance, the reigns pass to Pappalardi, who sings us the ballad "Theme for an Imaginary Western," which I must say is one of the best tracks on the album. The blues section comes to a halt and we return to hard rock with "Blood on the Sun," notable for a masterful solo by Leslie West during the second minute. Speaking of guitars, the next track is "Guitar Solo," and among the confusing notes, one can discern the Japanese anthem welcomed with a roar, setting off the spectacular "Crossroader" like a rocket, acting as a bridge between the guitar solo and the immortal "Mississippi Queen," which is a bit disappointing as a live version in my opinion. Next is "Silver Paper," the group's more experimental track with flute sections in the middle. They introduce a very famous cover like "Roll Over Beethoven" in a version just over two minutes long. The last two tracks would be the same song divided into two parts due to its excessive duration: I’m talking about the great "Nantucket Sleighride" which collectively lasts a stunning 35 minutes and contains everything and more, bass solos, guitar of course, and even a mini drum solo. Precisely for its excessive improvisation, it might be the best track on the album, which overall is very good.

And to think that a month ago I didn’t even know who they were. They literally amazed me. I rate the album a solid eight and highly recommend it with open arms even if it’s not very easy to find (I ordered it online). See you soon, Debaser readers. BYYYYYYEEE!!!!!!