Not only is Medusa the finest offering from '70s outfit Trapeze, it is one of the decade's most underappreciated hard rock recordings. With a lineup that consisted of future Deep Purple, Judas Priest, and Black Sabbath members, there seems to be proof that at least a few fellow musicians appreciated this 1971 offering. Fans of his later work might be surprised by Glenn Hughes' soulful vocal delivery, especially on the midtempo blues-rockers like "Black Cloud" and "Your Love Is Alright." Guitarist Mel Galley also deserves mention for his sparse approach to classic rock riffing that is catchy and affective.
Even the ballads are focused, memorable, and unique. There are some melodic moments on the closing title track that sound almost as if a '90s alt-rock crooner composed them. Considering that Medusa predates many similar, and more successful, classic rock LPs from the likes of Bad Company, Nazareth, Foreigner, and others, it's a wonder that the record isn't mentioned more when influential albums of this era are discussed.
by Jason Anderson
Tracks
1. Black Cloud (Mel Galley) - 6:11
2. Jury (Glen Hughes) - 8:10
3. Your Love Is Alright (Mel Galley, Glen Hughes, Dave Holland) - 4:55
4. Touch My Life (Mel Galley) - 4:07
5. Seafull (Glen Hughes) - 6:32
6. Makes You Wanna Cry (Mel Galley) - 4:43
7. Medusa (Glen Hughes) - 5:44
Trapeze
*Glen Hughes - Bass, Piano, Lead Vocals
*Mel Galley - Guitar, Vocals
*Dave Holland - Drums
1974 Trapeze - Hot Wire (2015 remaster)
1975 Trapeze - Trapeze (2015 remaster)
1975 Trapeze - Live At The Boat Club
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