Search - David Essex :: Rock on/on Tour

David's debut album and only live disc

02/29/2004

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Demon has reissued all of David Essex's albums for CBS/Columbia in three two-disc sets. This set has "Rock On," Essex's 1973 debut, and "On Tour," a live album from 1976. Sound quality is excellent and the discs come with a 12-page booklet. Musically, "Rock On" hints at Essex's potential. The title song, of course, is a classic, with its spooky vocal effects, enigmatic lyrics and reggae-like feel. Even 30 years on, it has a timeless feel. But as a whole, the album is hit or miss, as if Essex hadn't quite found his own style yet. That said, the tropical "Ocean Girl" is quite charming, and the Dr. John-styled "Lamplight" (his only other American hit) is pretty engaging. But covers of "Turn Me Loose" and "For Emily, Whenever I May Find Her" seem like mere filler. "On Tour" captures Essex in his first concert disc. Originally released as a two-album set, Demon has put the entire recording on one disc. The song selection is solid, but the the studio versions of such tunes as "All the Fun of the Fair," and "Gonna Make You a Star" are much more appealing, making this a for-fans-only-affair. Still, it's nice to hear Essex as the height of his stardom and to hear the roar of the teenage crowd. But if you want the best of Essex, start with one of Demon's other releases before moving to this one."