Reviews Written by SteveH

Revolutionary

Pros: Finished off Cream

Cons: Their second album is even better.

Big Pink finished off the self-indulgent, psychedelic soloing rock of bands like Cream.

The Band was the best ensemble of musicians in rock. They started playing rockabilly with Ronnie Hawkins, moved on to RnB and rock. They honed their chops in endless nights in honky-tonks, juke joints and dives. Then they backed Dylan on his world tour when he went electric.

By the time they recorded their first album they were seasoned pros who knew exactly what they were doing. They had 3 great vocalists, the best musician in rock in Garth Hudson on keyboards and sax, and one of the greatest songwriters in Robbie Robertson. Beginning to end, this is one of the best albums ever recorded. Check out Robbie's subtle guitar work, Garth's majestic organ work on Chest Fever, Richard Manuel's touching singing on Lonesome Suzie. Everything works, everything's in its place. Close to perfect. ...