Esoteric (label)
17 October 2014 (released)
17 October 2014
Most people who remember John Kongos think of thudding beats and a ‘Noddy Holder-esque’ roar of a voice but as this album (his second) proves, there was actually a lot more to him than that.
The album includes the two massive hits – ‘Tokoloshe Man’ and ‘He’s Gonna Step on You Again’ but there are a half a dozen other gems on here.
The band he put together included Caleb Quaye (uncle of Finlay and a star in his own right) as well as Dave Glover and Roger Pope (bass and drums) and he had cameos from the likes of Lol Coxhill, Rick Wakeman, Ralph McTell, Mike Moran as well as production from Gus Dudgeon - all leading to an album of varied songs and no little talent.
Personal favourites include ‘Come On Down Jesus’ which rocks with a delicious charm and the Elton John-esque ‘Can Someone Please Direct Me Back To Earth’ (one of the bonus tracks) as well as the two big hits.
All told an almost forgotten gem with an excellent set of bonus tracks.
