ELECTRIC SAVAGE

I first came across Colosseum II in the late 70's after seeing them on "Sight&Sound In Concert" on the BBC. I was blown away by the incredible musicianship and in particular the guitar virtuosity of Gary Moore,who I'd known previously through his on-off relationship with Thin Lizzy.

This is the second of three Colosseum II albums and though not as satisfying as the later "Wardance" is far better than the first album "Strange New Flesh" which I would only recommend to CII completionists.

This is high-powered Jazz Rock with the accent on ROCK ! A great feature of the album is the keyboard/guitar "jousting" between Airey and Moore particularly on "The Scorch" and "Desperado".The musicianship is outstanding with John Mole ably keeping it all together with his smooth Fender Jazz Bass and the drum maestro Hiseman just going for it on every track-check out his showcase "All Skin and Bone" if you need proof of his talents.

However it is ultimately Gary Moore who gets the MVP award.His speed and accuracy are incredible and whilst Lament and Intergalctic Strut showcase his Guitar God credentials,tracks like "Put It This Way" and" Desperarado" display his all-round talents.

This is a very good album,especially if you ignore the only vocals track,"Rivers".Colosseum II would ultimately hit the pinnacle with "Wardance" then disband under the pressure of touring as the Lloyd-Webbers "Variations" backing band.