HALL OF THE MOUNTAIN GRILL

Well, after hearing their earlier efforts with a more rough edged sound, (e.g. silver machine et al), it is good to see that they are concentrating on refining it a bit with a bit of subtelty (sorry of the spelling). This seems a bit odd in a way, considering that Lemmy would form Motorhead about 12-18 months after this album is released (and they were far from subtle). However, this album has rather sharp high and low points (sonically), which sort of impinges upon the enjoyment a bit.

Psychedelic Warloards opens the track, and gives a strong indication of the direction of the album, concentrating on the psychedelic aspects of their music more than the rock, however, i find that the melody line of most of the song a bit monotonus (Da da da da da daaaa etc got to me afta a while). Winds of change is a good wind down from that, being a pleasant instrumental intelude without sounding like a filler. The psychedelic/mellow interplay is repeated with the other 2 tracks of side 1, somehow without sounding like it is repeating itself. Youd better believe it is a groving pumping track that has a rather curious vocal aspect. Dave Brock sings most of the lyrics, giving Lemmy 2 goes at singing the song title in the song... y not i guess. The filler of the title track gives way to the harder edged Lost Johnny, with Lemmy having a go at vocals, with the most 4/4 track on the album, thou somewhat haunting for what i am used to (I listened to motorhead b4 hawkwind, so this takes a bit of gettin used to). Goat Willow is another pleasant ambient filler to set the mood for Paradox, which has a rather weak introduction before it launches into the chorus.

Overall, a good, almost easy listening album for a chill out session after a heavy night out, rather than a dreg out album for those on mind bending drugs. An enjoyable listen, with good harmonic interplay (generally) and strong use of the keyboards interaction with the rhythms. It works well, but also seems incomplete and indecicive at points. Not essential in any way, but if u have a copy, enjoy it.... Its worth that much for sure.