Bay Area groove-rock combo Hammer comprised singer John DeRoberts, guitarist Jack O'Brien, bassist Richie McBride, keyboardist Norman Landsberg, and drummer John Guerin. Formed in 1969, the group was quickly signed by legendary promoter Bill Graham to his fledgling San Francisco Records label -- their self-titled debut LP appeared in 1970, supported by a series of high-profile opening dates at Graham's Fillmore venues. Despite strong critical notices, Hammer failed to earn much commercial attention, and although a second album was recorded, it was never released and the band dissolved. While Landsberg later collaborated with the Pointer Sisters, Guerin went on to co-found the pioneering fusion unit L.A. Express -- a prolific session drummer, he also played on Joni Mitchell's seminal Court and Spark and The Hissing of Summer Lawns sessions.Anyone expecting to hear a standard set of early-1970s San Francisco psych is liable to be a little disappointed by the David Rubinson produced "Hammer", however if you give the album a chance, it turns out to be quite enjoyable. Musically the album's all over the roadmap, including stabs at pop, rock, classical (the instrumental 'Pain and Tears') and even some jazzy interludes ('Sweet Sunday Morning'). Let me warn you that as lead singer DeRoberts is somewhat of an acquired taste. On tracks such as 'Something Easy' and 'Charity Taylor' he occasionally reminds me of Journey's Steve Perry. He also has a habit of reaching for those high notes that leaves me shuddering. Obviously, that may pose a problem for some folks. On the other hand, DeRoberts is surrounded by a first rate band that churn out some first-rate performances . Among them, 'Hangover Horns' is a great rocker, the scat instrumental 'Tuane' is kind of cool and guitarist O'Brien and keyboardist Landsberg show off some nifty chops on the instrumental 'Death To a King'. Not essential listening, but certainly an interesting addition to the catalog of San Francisco-based groups..
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