Record Reviews

BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY ~ BE A BROTHER / HOW HARD IT IS ACADIA 8194 (Barcode: 805772819429) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2008 3rd and 4th albums by the legendary US West Coast band Big Brother And The Holding CompanyFind albums by this artist, which is sadly most famous for giving the world their lead singer – America´s most incredible female artist Janis JoplinFind albums by this artist. After recording a couple of albums with the band for the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label, Janis was persuaded to leave them and start a solo career, a move which musically turned out to be most unfortunate. Although at the early stage Big Brother, led by guitarist and the group´s main songwriter Sam AndrewFind albums by this artist, were perhaps not the most seasoned and high profile band on the spot, they fitted Janis like a glove with their raw energy and enthusiasm, providing her with the best possible vehicle for her vocal extravagancies. Faced with the prospect of their lead singer, who was absolutely irreplaceable, most bands would have called it a day, but Big Brother decided to hang on and went to record a couple of excellent albums, presented here. They expanded the lineup to a sextet, featuring three lead guitarists (Andrew, Peter AlbinFind albums by this artist and David SchallockFind albums by this artist), and armed with a set of great tunes (mostly written by Andrew) they dared to expand into new musical ventures, way beyond the early Blues-centered tunes. With traces of Psychedelic influences, harder Rock riffs and even proto-Prog moments, these two albums are amongst the finest attempts, sadly remaining almost completely ignored and forgotten for years. Having them both back in circulation is a treat and a great opportunity to get acquainted with some lost treasures of American music. Wholeheartedly recommended!

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