Almost precisely two years ago I wrote the following after finding the CD in a thrift shop: "I know pretty much zilch about early Bob Seger. His later Silver Bullet albums were (and are) ubiquitous in America's radio and music culture. They now call it "Heartland" music, which is a cousin of my own Midwest reference when talking about hard rock, AOR, and prog acts from the region. Except Seger's music is based in country and blues. But this album is definitely different, as any review will indicate. Actually the title track does foreshadow his later work, as does a couple of other songs on Side 1. It's Side 2 that is fascinating starting with 'White Wall' and ending with 'Doctor Fine'. A mix of trippy and hard psychedelia, which matches the cover (an awesome one at that). Not going to hold onto this (surprisingly scarce on CD), but probably would keep the LP if I ever see it."
---
So that premise was put to the test last night. As you can probably tell since I'm featuring it, the LP did take it to another level. A second listen helped as well and resulted in a +1. With a title like Ramblin' Gamblin' Man and a cover of a holy pretty blonde pledging allegiance, one could be forgiven thinking this might be a country album (though the day-glo blue on a glacier plate would be unique in that space). One look at the back cover will dispel that notion however. If it were all like the first side, the album wouldn't make the cut. The title track is OK and A3 is annoying. A2 and A4 are the highlights. Side 2 is where the money tracks are. In fact, other than the closer, this side could be considered a 60s psychedelic classic. '2+2 = ?' is exactly what collectors around the world are paying top dollar for in the 45 market. This is not the Bob Seger you know. As one RYM reviewer hilariously notes: "The psychedelic skeleton in Bob Seger's closet."
Ownership: LP: 1980 Capitol. Single sleeve. Love both sides of the cover. Finding this in the wilds has proven to be tough but I scored this one dirt cheap (minty too) at the Denver Record show last week (2023). This would be the last vinyl pressing before the modern era.
10/22/21 (CD 2.11); 10/20/23 (new entry)
No comments:
Post a Comment