Vanilla Fudge-Near The Beginning (1969)

Vanilla Fudge is a somewhat forgotten band outside the United States, where they are revered and recognized as an institution in American musical culture. They were also considered one of the most powerful, influential, and innovative groups of the 1960s. Their captivating progressive blend of rock, soul, and psychedelia is so intense and heavy that even today it's difficult for those unfamiliar with these sounds to appreciate. In fact, iconic bands like Uriah Heep, Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, and Yes, among many others, cited them as a major source of inspiration early in their careers. This spectacular band, formed by Carmine Appice (drums and vocals), Vince Martell (guitar and vocals), Mark Stein (keyboards and vocals), and Tim Bogert (bass), was one of the most acclaimed and successful bands of the late 1960s, unanimously praised by their millions of fans and the world press. In 1969, they released their fourth album, "Near the Beginning", where their style was even more deeply infused with rock, blues, avant-garde elements, soul, and hints of gospel, in addition to the grand instrumental improvisations they added to their songs. The tracks featured excellent wah-wah guitars, a powerful Hammond organ, soaring vocals, and a driving, crushing rhythm section. Replete with rhythmic moments boasting a splendid and overwhelming dynamic, this album includes everything from vigorous covers of classics by Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood to epic tour de force tracks like the apotheosis of "Break Song", the culmination of one of the most intense and sweeping albums in the history of American rock.