Customer Reviews

Legendary Heroes

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have always loved this record. This and his previous release, "I wasn't born yesterday" were very strong solo releases that deserved much more success than they had. Some might miss the Hollies harmonies which are not evident on either of these records. Nonetheless, there are many complex vocal harmonies on display in a number of the songs here. I believe the intent by Clarke was to create something uniquely different than the Hollies which make total sense. Otherwise, why bother? Likewise I never understood the criticism of Roger Daltrey solo records because they didn't sound like the Who!

The songs, mostly Clarke co-written originals are melodic and for the most part represent a much tougher sound than that which he employed with the Hollies. The guitar playing is spectacular throughout and Clarke's singing is much rawer than previously heard. Both "The only ones" and "Slipstream" have hit single written all over them though neither reached that level. Other outstanding songs include "Brandenburg Plaza", "Imaginations Child", "The Survivor" and "Sanctuary" (though I still prefer the Hollies at the time unreleased version of this one). Also, "Walls" is a very strong ballad and is unique both in that it is one of the only ballads on the record and it utilizes a power ballad style which would become much more popular throughout the 1980's. Some have admired his cover of the Badfinger hit "Baby Blue". I'm slightly less enamored with it though it does fit the style and mood of the record nicely.

I suspect the overall lack of success of this record commercially had an adverse impact on getting future Allan Clarke solo releases. It's really too bad as the style and song quality on display here would seem to have fit in well with the musical tastes of the public over the subsequent 10 years. The production is first rate and is much more dynamic than a typical Hollies record. Listen to it loud. It really is meant to be heard that way.

This is definitely one of Clarke's best solo albums! It's got the hits, "Slipstream" and "Baby Blue", and one of my favourites, "The Survivor". If you love The Hollies, you will enjoy this album by Allan Clarke very much!

Side One
1. Slipstream 4:34
2. The Only Ones 4:12
3. Walls 5:00
4. Brandberg Plaza 4:23
5. The Survivor 6:17
Side Two
6. Driving The Doomsday Cars 4:28
7. Baby Blue 3:39
8. Sanctuary 4:28
9. Imagination's Child 4:09
10. Legendary Heroes 4:45