Unusually, this CD contains a mono version and a stereo version of every song. This might sound a bit OCD, but the stereo effect is totally over-used, for example sticking the drums in one ear and the rhythm guitar in another. This can be quite disconcerting (especially when listening through headphones), so the mono version makes sense as a band-aid fix for this.
Given modern day rock albums consist of a million overdubs and chorusing effects, it takes some effort to appreciate the simplistic- almost barren - instrumental style of The Shadows these days. But Apache's richly engaging spaghetti-western feel is well worth the effort. The Savage is more of the same, with the added bonus of a more energetic tempo.
Perhaps more pop-friendly are Man Of Mystery and F.B.I., which are immediately infectious, thanks to incredibly catchy riffs.
However, I find The Stranger and Wonderful Land a bit too inoffensive, like the theme song for daytime TV show. Having said that, the guitar sound in The Stranger is wonderful. Other complaints are the tweeness of the alternate style in The Frightened City and the whistling responses in Stars Fell On Stockton. Both elements are deal-breakers for me.
Ballads in a Hawaiian 6/8 time signature (eg Blue Moon) are a dime a dozen, but somehow Midnight still stands out as having genuine conviction. Another oddball, the Latin-styled Guitar Tango stands out with its vivid texturing and mood.
Finally, the upbeat rock'n'roll energy of Quatermassters Stores is a bit out of character, but a great way to finish.
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