Search - Patto :: Hold Your Fire

Underrated 70's Brit-rockers

D. Hartley | Seattle, WA USA | 05/16/2003

(3 out of 5 stars)

"The creative team of Ollie Halsall and Mike Patto mastered nearly every rock music genre within a relatively brief period of time, yet continue to be largely overlooked by rock 'n' roll historians. Following thier original incarnation as psychedelic popsters Timebox, and preceding thier prog-rock stint as Boxer, Halsall and Patto defied genre as "Patto". "Hold Your Fire" was Patto's 2nd release, and features an interesting blend of jazzy chords, bluesy singing and straight ahead rock 'n' roll frequently wrapped in epic arrangements of prog-rock length (note only 8 cuts on the album). The uninitiated may wonder after a first listen: "What's the big deal?" -but Patto's unique blend has a way of growing on you, especially when you notice the "little touches" like guitarist Ollie Halsall's Lionel Hampton-like prowess on the vibraphone. The standout song is "You You Point Your Finger" featuring a heartfelt vocal from Patto and a beautifully fluid and understated Mark Knopfler-style guitar solo by Halsall. Possibly not everyone's cup of tea, but fans of 70's rock and those who can appreciate "musician's musicians" will enjoy."