I just had the opportunity to review the most recent release, Sunset Blvd 1969, by Humble Pie and it’ gives a very cool insight into one of the most dynamic blues rockers of the era. Headlined by Peter Frampton, a well known guitar wiz and Steve Marriott, possibly the best blues rock vocalists of our time, this band was spectacular. This is a recording that I have never heard and recorded live at the Whiskey A Go-Go, this catches the band in all of it’ s rawness and very finely recorded on their first US tour.
Opening with the Yardbirds’ For Your Love, this track has a whole new feel. Jerry Shirley sets a cool bongo like rhythm and Peter Frampton plays Flamenco stylized acoustic guitar, backed by Marriott on acoustic rhythm guitar. Marriott, always soulful wails the lyrics, complimented by Frampton who plays lush acoustic lead throughout. This is a real cool track and not at all what you’d expect from the band who “Rocked the Fillmore” but it’s quite good. Next up is Johnny Kidds (Think the Who Live At Leeds) Shakin’ All Over. Greg Ridley really puts his fingerprints on this one laying down a distinctly Humble Pie bass line with Shirley keeping it tight. Frampton and Marriott both contribute a lot on vocals and Frampton shows some of his blues chops on guitar while Marriott plays in on harp and keys. Solid Pie. Really getting that Humble Pie Swagger” Shirley on bass leads the way on Ray Charles’ Hallelujah I Just Love Her So with Frampton trading lead vocal with Marriott. Wrapping the release is a exceptional spin on Dr John’s haunting, I Walk On Gilded Splinters. With a strong bass/ drum anchor, Frampton and Marriott explore blues riffs on guitar and Marriott’s exceptional vocals are displayed. Marriott blows his trademark harp style and Frampton on guitar works with Ridley and Shirley, building the anticipation. Breaking into a definite Felix Pappalardi / Corky Laing riff from the time, the band is driving hard. This is a great jam circling back to a heavy ending on the Night Tripper’s classic. Excellent addition to my Humble Pie set.
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