Search - Oz Knozz :: Ruff Mix

Why has no one reviewed this awesome album?

all love based paths lead to God | Planet Earth | 01/07/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I was reviewing another album by Children of Bodom, in which I compared their music to Oz Knozz and Manfred Mann. Then on an impulse I looked up Oz Knozz and was surprised to see no reviews!



Ruff Mix was one of the most sought-after rare albums of the 70s and early 80s. Very unique, and highly original, this album was the first to showcase lead keyboards in a heavy format. The closest I can compare to would be Manfred Mann (circa Roaring Silence, Angels, Afrika) and THAT, my friends, is quite a heavy compliment!



Ruff Mix is just that - a rough mix. The vinyl had that raw sound. Not sure if the cd has been polished up. But, no matter. The music is what's important, and the music does NOT disappoint! I promise that this is NOTHING like anything else you've heard!



Initially, only something like 5000 copies were made of the first pressing. Thanks to lots of airplay on the once-great KISS radio station in San Antonio, Ruff Mix became one of the most sought-after rare albums. I was one of the lucky few who had an original copy. But alas, I later sold it, much to my regret. :-(



So, I am thrilled to find it is now available on cd! This album still holds its own quite well, 30 years later. It is compellingly emotional and the keyboards are exquisite! Heavy by the 1970s standards, might not seem so heavy now, but still ROCKS!



Also check out: Late-70s era Manfred Mann and Children of Bodom (who obviously grew up on Manfred Mann and Oz Knozz and then metalized it)."