Search - Yardbirds :: Stroll On with the Yardbirds

Absolute Fun From Start to Finish.

Lovely to See You | Out There Somewhere | 09/24/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I can't think of another more underrated British blues based band during the infamous 60s invasion than the Yardbirds. The reason is simple; they were lots of fun! Even now, somebody from the 80s like myself is only beginning to discover their infectious brand of heavy blues rock. Moreso than the likes of the Beatles or the Stones, the Yardbirds took African American blues rock and made it their own without overdoing the British equation. It's no wonder that after they started to record songs like "For Your Love" that Eric Clapton departed for earthier shores like John Mayall's Blues Breakers.



Let's face it, "Shapes of Things to Come" is one seriously great, albeit short, psychedelic song, but their true appeal lies in those dirty club blues they played with such finesse.

"Good Morning Little Schoolgirl" is one of the best songs they ever recorded, and Rod Stewart doesn't have to think he did anybody any favors with his rendition. Aerosmith may get airplay on classic rock stations with their cover of "Train Kept a Rollin'," but these guys still walk all over them in my book. "Sweet Music" is a truly impressive cover, and "New York City Blues" is both funny and makes you want to dance!



There are 36 tracks on this 2-disc set, and I dare you not to wiggle your hips to this stuff when you're in the mood to listen to some damn good blues played incredibly well by a bunch of white Anglo Saxon guys. If you can hold still, "Mister, You're a Better (Wo)Man Than I.""