Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Originally T-Bone Burnett, Steven Soles and David Mansfield met when they worked together in Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder review backing band. When the wheels fell off the bus of that particular tour at the end of 1975, the trio were immediately signed by Arista with big things predicted. They recorded three albums - 'Interviews', 'Spark In the Dark' and 'The Statue Makers Of Hollywood' - before sadly quitting as a band in 1979. I had originally owned these albums on vinyl having discovered the group in 1978 and it's refreshing to finally have all three released in full on CD in this double album. Despite the high expectations and critical acclaim poured on the band, they failed to convert their talents into record sales so despite being fine albums, these remain cult classics. In hindsight, perhaps The Alpha Band were just too good or just ahead of their time. Mixing a myriad of Americana and world music influences together, they manage to sound spookily contemporary to 21st century listeners. With 30 songs, let me just tell you about a couple of highlights. "Tick Tock" is an eight minute summary of the Old Testament with a backing track which sounds like it comes from Hawaii! "Born In Captivity" has a similar tribal groove and a mix of melodies and harmonies with a subtle message. In fact Burnett seems unafraid of letting his Christianity out on these songs which has to be commended. There's a cool version of Hank Williams' "Thank God" to finish the album that seems sort of apt.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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