Oz Knozz - Ruff Mix CD (expanded)
SKU
18-PROGAOR 15
"First legitimate CD reissue of one of the best US private press hard rock/progressive rock albums of the 1970s, from the master tapes. “Ruff Mix” mainly grooves in Hard Rock territory—the second track 'Peanut Butter Yoni' sounds a bit like Judas Priest with a proto-Metal feeling; but the album also has elements of Progressive Rock, Horn Rock and Pomp Rock.
Like most bands of the era, the idea was to throw out a few different styles to see if something would stick, the theory being that a major label would hear the private album by chance and sign said band so they could open for Led Zeppelin or Foghat's next US tour or something like that.
What separates Oz Knozz from others is a strong compositional component, the band have plenty of original ideas and muster superb instrumentation. The guitar work ranges from hard and powerful to melodic and bluesy and is supported by some great keyboard, including awe-inspiring organ and synth waves. The three-part 15-minute 'Doodley Squat’ suite features heavy dual keyboard parts, crunchy guitars and expressive vocals; the result is a terrific Hard Prog track with lot of energy.
For many, the standout track is the groovy and infectious horn rocker, which sounds as dated as the movement itself and easily could have been from 1969. High energy and impressive songwriting. Love it.
Limited collectors edition expanded with live in 1976 bonus tracks that were never recorded for the album. Booklet includes liner notes about the album by band leader Duane Massey and rare photos. File Under: 70's Heavy Progressive Rock.
For fans of: Bloodrock, Hard Stuff, Tempest, Night Sun.”
- LabelPROGAOR
- UPC3121594192838