Search - Free :: Tons of Sobs

An incredible debut

J. B Brent | Oak Ridge, Tennessee USA | 01/10/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"TONS OF SOBS by Free was the group's debut, originally released in the U.S. by A&M records (SP 4198) in 1969. This ensemble's trademark clean and economical sound, the rhythm and counter-rhythms among the vocals, bass, lead guitar and drums and a strong selection of original blues-based tunes, make this an enjoyable listening experience for all. "Sweet Tooth," "Wild Indian Woman" and "The Hunter" (which remains part of Paul Rodgers' in-concert setlist to this day) are standout cuts, but the material fits together well throughout."

A must have for a lovers of heavy blues rock.

Dick Palmer | Sweden | 04/07/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Why don't all the good old albums get more recognition? This is
indeed one of those.
The musicians make a good team, Paul Rodgers' voice is certainly one of those bests with a unique carchter and with balance of both intensity and grey despair. Paul Kossof's fiery lead guitar work makes a brilliant bridge between blues and heavy rock riffs. He is certainly not mentioned often enough when talking about guitarists. Simon Kirk the drummer plays vividly and concerned. He is doing more than giving just a rythm. Drums on this album is felt as an
instrument with dynamics and tonality, played both softly or intensively. Andy Fraser too, does more than making standard bass lines.
Because the audio quality is better than albums in general made in 1968 the bass is more clear and just not a diffuse bottom tone maker. Yes the audio is actually surprisingly superb. It does not say whether my version of the album is remixed or remastered or not so I guess they used a clever way of recording. And if it would be
listened at in a remixed or remastered version, don't know if there is any as such, then the audio would fool anyone to believe that the album was not made in 68 but rather in 88 !If you haven't heard of Tons of sobs then do. Although, in order to enjoy it's heavyness you need speakers with better size rather than made for todays standards, made up just for wimpy pop music.My favs are tracks: #2-Worry, #3-walk in my shadow, #6-I'm a mover, #7-The hunter, #9-Sweet tooth."

Blues rock at its best...

Brian E. Burgess | NY, USA | 04/04/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Wow! This cd blew me away. How this group didn't become a top seller like Cream I don't know. In fact you hear bits of Cream's style as well as good old blues in this release. The playing is top notch and tight with fret master Paul Kosoff throwing down some serious licks. This talented guitarist sadly would not see the age of 30 due to substance abuse. Simon Kirke (later of Bad Company fame) lays down some heavy drum work while bassist Andy Frasier is a musical force by himself. When I think of Andy's playing deceased bass player Allen Woody of Gov't Mule fame comes to mind. Phenomenal...In fact the Mule cover some Free songs in concert.To top it all off we get Paul Rodger's amazing vocals and song writing. This is just an incredible stew of blues and rock and should be considered a classic. Amazing covers of Goin' Down Slow and The Hunter just add to the quality of this release. If you are interested in checking something else out by Free other than radio staple and overplayed "All Right Now" you will not be disappointed by this classic 1968 release."