LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

2 in 1 CD
a—? Originally released in 1975 and 1976 on the Chrysalis label and now available for the first time as a 2 on 1 CD. The name "Sassafras" is derived from the word for an American/Mexican tree root, used to make perfume, dyes, beer and tea! a—? Legendary Welsh Boogie Rockers Sassafras were founded in 1970 and originally comprised the trio of vocalist/guitarist Ralph Evans, guitarist Dai Shell and bassist Ricky John Holt. The band split up the same year but then reformed with former cabaret singer Terry 'Beefy' Bennett and former Love Sculpture drummer Robert 'Congo' Jones. The band toured extensively, often as headliners, and this hard work, combined with numerous radio broadcasts, paid off with a deal from Polydor Records in 1973. a—? The band went through a succession of drummers and lineup changes - Rob Reynolds, the former Universe and Dragonfly sticksman, initially occupied the drumstool. After their debut album, bassist Holt was replaced by ex-Universe man Steve Finn - although Holt returned shortly after. Universe are well-known for their guitarist Paul Chapman - who went on to play with Skid Row, Lonestar and UFO. a—? As well as obtaining a useful TV slot on the Old Grey Whistle Test, the band continued to tour extensively with Stackridge, Black Oak Arkansas, Ace, American Gypsy and Ten Years After. Robert Jones left before the first of the albums featured here, replaced by Chris Shirley - who then left to join Hobo, being replaced by Dick Owen for a short spell. Jones then returned for the 'Riding High'album! a—? Bennett eventually left to form Kracatoa which later featured Ray Philips from Budgie. a—? The band is still gigging and these days the line-up features Bennett, Shell, Williams, Jones, Ray Jones, Marco James (keyboards) and Gary Davies (drums).
Track listing: WHEELIN' 'N' DEALIN' 1. Wheelin' 'N' Dealin' 2. Highway Skies 3. Hamburg Song 4. Moonshine 5. Peanut Man 6. Box Car Hobo 7. Ohio 8. Soul Destroyer RIDING HIGH: 9. Riding High 10. Nothin' To Lose 11. Bad Blood 12. See Through A Mountain 13. New York Collapse 14. Small Town Talk 15. Long Shot Lover 16. The Band Refuse To Play 17. Keep Rock'N'Roll Like It Used To Be