Search - Atomic Rooster :: In Satan's Name / Definitive Collection

Interesting Retrospective Of A Rock'n'Roll Asterisk

El Kabong | 08/26/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Vincent Crane is a name familiar to people who likely have never heard his music, such was/is his rep as the 800-lb gorilla of Hammond players: Atomic Rooster, born following his departure from The Crazy World Of Arthur Brown, was primarily his showcase through whose revolving doors many, many musicians came and went, some of interest to progressivistas (Carl Palmer, John du Cann), some of note to Britrock fans in general (Chris Farlowe, Pete French, Nick Graham), but none staying long enough to impose a clear direction for this band. Even Crane's rollicking piano and fat, full organ tone set the pace but don't dictate the fractions. This is borne out over the course of IN SATAN'S NAME, a 2cd comp of the first six lps put out by the British Snapper/Recall label (an interesting budget label that specializes in comps of some overlooked bands, PFM, the Ozrics, and post-Mott Mick Ronson being three others.) The first four albums are lightly sampled on Disc 1 (don't worry - "Death Walks Behind You" is there) while Disc 2 is Chris Farlowe-fronted albums 5 & 6 practically in their entirety. You might think this split shortchanges the prog-rock fan, but there's nothing very progressive about any of the incarnations, entertaining though they are: this Rooster doesn't so much cross the road as swerves crazily all over it. Throughout this comp they veer from evil Gothic hard rock a la an organ-heavy Black Sabbath, to more of an early Birth Control sound, finally to an unsteady mix of Capt Beyond & Blood Sweat & Tears. Now, I should stress there's nothing terrible on either disc; in fact, if you're partial to the 69-73 era, there's a lot to like in a minor key. Crane's sound is at its peak of power and confidence; the arrangements are simple but solid; it's all solidly-throbbing rock music of a certain vintage and level of professionalism that satisfies without exactly getting your heart racing (which is probably a good thing, cause if this cd brings back good memories, you're old enuf to be have begun worrying about palpitations anyway); for sure, any diehard Hammond B & C fan will be in hog heaven wallowing in these two hours of Crane-ial surgery. (Alas, a broke, dispirited, heavily-drinking Crane committed suicide at age 45 in 1989 after one too many Atomic Rooster comeback dreams fell through: another of rock's small tragedies that you shouldn't hold your breath waiting for BEHIND THE MUSIC to cover.) In all, this is one I enjoy with an asterisk and a bit of a guilty conscience. Let's call it judiciously recommended to 70s scholars and graybeards who know better than to expect "Selling England By The Pound" here."

Be careful

robert long | holbrook, ny United States | 09/28/2002

(2 out of 5 stars)

"This is not the compilation of John Peel recordings as is stated.....but just a best of cd. These recordings can be found elsewhere and although the card says its a live album....I see no evidence of that either. If you are looking for an inexpensive look at the band its ok....otherwise look elsewhere."

The best band yo never heard!!

robert long | 02/02/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Atomic Rooster is in the same vein as Deep Purple or Uriah Heep. They should have been more popular than they were. The only song I ever heard on the radio was (Tomorrow Night). I was lucky enough to have Death Walks Behind You and Made in England, both are excellent albums. A couple years ago I purchased Nice'N'Greasy since it was the only one available at the time and was pleasantly surprised. All the songs on this 2-disc set are on these three albums plus a few more. You will be doing yourself a favor by purchasing this set at this price. You won't be disappointed. Apparently there are alot of other fans out there or these discs would not be available, so just don't take my word on it. ATOMIC ROOSTER RULEZ!!!"