Ssssh.

Ssssh.- Album Overview

Released in 1969, "Ssssh." is the third studio album by the British blues rock band Ten Years After. The album was released by Deram Records and showcases the band's signature blend of blues, rock, and boogie-woogie, characterized by Alvin Lee's fiery guitar work and dynamic vocal delivery. The recording took place at De Lane Lea Studios in London, where the band was able to capture their live energy, a hallmark of their performances. Producer and engineer Mike Vernon played a crucial role in shaping the sound of the album, which features a mix of original compositions and energetic performances that highlight the band's musicianship.

The album includes notable tracks such as "Good Morning Little Schoolgirl," a cover of the blues standard that demonstrates the band's roots in traditional blues music, and "Hear Me Calling," which has become a fan favorite and showcases Lee's incredible guitar prowess. "Ssssh." also includes "Love Like a Man," which was released as a single and received significant airplay, helping to propel the band's popularity. The album's blend of rock and blues made it a significant contribution to the genre during a time when British blues was gaining traction internationally.

The cultural significance of "Ssssh." cannot be overstated, as it positioned Ten Years After as one of the leading acts in the blues rock movement of the late 1960s. The album's release coincided with the rise of major rock festivals, including Woodstock, where the band would later perform. The combination of their musical innovation and the spirit of the era helped cement Ten Years After's legacy in the rock genre, influencing future generations of musicians.

Review

"Ssssh." is a compelling album that captures the raw energy of Ten Years After at a pivotal moment in their career. The sound is a potent mix of blues rock, underscored by Alvin Lee's virtuosic guitar solos, which are both technically impressive and emotionally engaging. The lyrics, while not always profound, reflect a youthful exuberance and a sense of rebellion that resonates with the era. Tracks like "Good Morning Little Schoolgirl" and "Love Like a Man" showcase the band's ability to take traditional blues themes and infuse them with a rock sensibility, creating an infectious groove that encourages listeners to get up and move.

The artistic vision of Ten Years After shines through in their ability to blend genres seamlessly, making "Ssssh." not just an album of its time, but a timeless piece that continues to inspire. The production, handled by Mike Vernon, provides a crisp sound that allows each instrument to shine, particularly the interplay between the guitar and rhythm section. While the album may not reach the heights of some of their later works, it remains a vital part of their discography and a testament to their early innovation in the blues rock genre.

Highlights

• Alvin Lee's exceptional guitar work and vocal delivery.
• Strong blend of blues and rock that captures the era's spirit.
• Memorable tracks that have stood the test of time, such as "Love Like a Man."

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel less polished compared to their later albums.
• A few lyrics can come off as simplistic or clichéd.
• Lack of thematic cohesion across the album.

Overall evaluation

"Ssssh." is an exhilarating showcase of Ten Years After's early sound and a significant entry in the blues rock genre. While it has its weaknesses, the album's strengths lie in its raw energy and inventive musicianship.