THIS WAS

This Was is an old classic and it's very enjoyable. This great band's first line up from 1968 were already playing an interesting fusion of blues, rock and jazz. They were yet to develop what I consider the best of the typical early JT sound which would come by the next album. However, what they came up with here was a solid effort. I have no doubt that they would have been an exciting band to see live as they were a very talented bunch of young musicians.

Best songs include the starter "My Sunday Feeling" a bluesy song with flute and the real classic "A Song For Jeffrey" which has an addictive rhythm and cool harmonica.

There are several jam style instrumental pieces on the album. "Serenade To A Cuckoo" is a jazz number with solo sections from both flute and guitar while "Dharma For One" gives the drummer a chance to show his stuff. "Cat's Squirrel" is also a nice upbeat bluesy track.

Overall, a very good start to this ever changing band. The line up would already change after this album and the sound also. In my opinion the following "Stand Up" is a better album with folky touches thrown in to the mix. This Was, though is still a very nice debut. 3.5 stars.