May Blitz - Second Of May

Year of Release: 2003
Label: Akarma Records
Catalog Number: AK 265
Format: LP
Total Time: 36:50:00

After the demise of Bakerloo, James Black (guitar, vocals), Terry Poole (bass) and Keith Baker (drums) formed May Blitz, however the Second of May (1971) album featured a different lineup than their self-titled release. Black remained the cornerstone of the band and Poole and Baker were replaced by Reid Hudson (bass, vocals) and Tony Newman (drums, vibes, percussion).

This is a fine album with hints of blues with progressive elements pushing it beyond a basic rock sound. It is similar to their self-titled debut yet the atmosphere is different due to the changes in the band. I would not say that this is complex and intense progressive rock, but it certainly was a precursor to what many bands would be creating soon thereafter. Side 1 offers high-energy tracks with long sweeping instrumental passages, while side two cranks it down a few notches, showing the band in a more mellowed out state with a folky bluesy feel. A think the variety on this recording is exceptional. It is indeed a shame that this band did not continue to record, as they were excellent.

This is a highly collectable piece. I saw a listing on the GEMM site for this title (which is handy reference for collectors) for a second hand LP no less, for a whopping $228! Although all the other listings where in the $20 range. This is valid proof of their ability to attract listeners and collectors alike to this day.

Tracklisting:
Side One: For Mad Men Only (4:11) / Snakes And Ladders (4:47) / The 25th Of December 1969 (3:07) / In Part (6:00)

Side Two: 8 Ma Grim Nits (4:20) / High Beech (4:56) / Honey Coloured Time (4:09) / Just Thinking (6:00)

Musicians:
James Black - guitar, 12-string, vocals
Reid Hudson - bass, vocals
Tony Newman - drums, vibes, percussion

Discography:
May Blitz (1970/2003)
Second Of May (1971/2003)

Genre: Progressive Rock

Origin UK

Added: January 27th 2004
Reviewer: Keith "Muzikman" Hannaleck
Score:
Hits: 1938
Language: english