"For me, this was when the band were at their height. Oh, and I was in the band at the time." - Lemmy (Classic Rock, April 2006 - quote taken from Wiki)
Equal parts space rock and psychadelic theater, Hawkwind are one of few in that genre to have lasted for more than a few years before massive drug induced burnouts. In fact, they have lasted for a mind-boggling 41 years and put out a massive amount of material - but they are probably most notable for their early albums - 1971's X In Search Of Space, 1973's live Space Ritual and this, 1974's Hall Of The Mountain Grill.
This is the fourth studio album by Hawkwind and one that many critics will claim as their best studio album. It's an absolutely exceptional record and the tracks on its range from atmospheric psychedelia - 'Wind Of Change', 'Goat Willow' - to powerful rock tracks - 'The Psychedelic Warlords (Dissapear In Smoke)', 'Lost Johnny' and 'You'd Better Believe it.'
Hall Of The Mountain Grill also happens to be one of the few records on which Lemmy Kilmister (later of Motorhead) appears on and his contributions are certainly felt, especially on 'Lost Johnny', a track he wrote, sings and plays on.
It's a landmark recording for the band and a very impressive work. It's also pretty dense - I'm always suprised by just how much there is going on here - Mellotron, violin, 12-string guitar, keyboards, fuzzy bass, acoustic guitar, horns, and just about evey space sound effect you could imagine. It's just goddamned awesome. It's an album that shows more of itself the louder you turn it up and good headphones are a must if you want to get every last bit.
Early Hawkwind vinyl albums are pretty hard to find, but their catalog seems to keep getting represses and re-releases, especially Space Ritual, which is usually the only album you will regularly find in their bin. This is the only Hawkwind LP I own and its in fantastic shape, with the original liner sleeve and very little cover wear. The vinyl is in mint condition and sounds just bananas on my stereo. Another great find at Laurie's.
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