SPLIT

Probably one of the best conceptual rockpieces of all time Split parts 1 - 4 is one of those pieces you still discover little nuances, new intrepretations of TS McPhee's splendid guitar work even after 38 years! TS still plays at least 2 parts on his live gigs. The passages between the various parts reflect the impact the breakdown was having on his mind - panic, disorder, fear, discontent, revulsion mirroring the exit from part 1 into part 2; serenity, calm before more panic, confusion and disorder reflecting the move to part 3. Part 4 appears initially to reflect composure and harmony before a return to frenzy right at the end and the thoughts left in the listeners' minds will there ever be a return to that serentity. Well, my interpretation any way!

Cherry Red is the Groundhogs signature tune. I believe it's the track they played on Top of the Pops! Great heavy rock, five minutes of sheer energy and vitality before a more melodic 'a Year in the Life'. Junkman does need a set of instructions for the last couple of minutes, but still great stuff - interesting interplay between acoustic and lead.

And to finish off a return to earlier days for TS - the blues - the classic 'Groundhog Blues' - a far cry from the thought provoking Split and the energetic Cherry Red, but poetry in motion from the great man.