Frigid Pink: A Rediscovery of 70’s Blues Rock
Known for their massively popular hit – a heavy metal version of “The House of the Rising Sun,” the band’s albums are brought to life once again with a new Esoteric Records release.
Watch the video above for the full review
The First Album: A Sound of Its Time
The first album by Frigid Pink, released on Deram Records, was quintessentially a product of its time. While their hit single “House of the Rising Sun” captured hearts, the overall album reflected the sounds of the ’60s rather than the emerging major rock bands of the ’70s.
This new Esoteric release features Frigid Pink’s first two albums in a striking three-panel set that folds out into a well-crafted Digipack. With digital mastering by Pascal Burns, the release brings together recordings from 1970 to 1971.
This fold-out set is accompanied by a booklet providing details of the tracks, bonus tracks, and an insightful essay by Steve Pimpleton (April 2023), painting a picture of the second, harder-to-find album.
A Fantastic Musical Journey: From Frigid Pink to Defrosted
I particularly loved the second album called “Defrosted.” The band seems to have matured, and their music evolved into something harder, heavier, and filled with gritty, bluesy vocals. He even draws a connection with the band Cactus, stating that Frigid Pink’s music was not far off from Cactus’ rawness, just a few steps further down the road.
A highlight from “Defrosted” is a track called “Slooney,” an instrumental that showcases exceptional guitar playing, symbolizing the band’s maturity. Just why didn’t they make it big? The first album might be considered a one-hit wonder, but the second album’s brilliance makes the band’s limited success puzzling.
This release of Frigid Pink’s albums is more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It’s a revelation of a band that could have been more. Available now through Cherry Red, this set is a must-have for those who appreciate the ’70s rock and blues scene.
Frigid Pink’s unique sound, especially in their second album, deserves a place in the modern-day playlist. Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone exploring the depths of rock history, this set provides a satisfying journey through a fascinating musical era. So grab your copy, sit back, and let Frigid Pink’s powerful chords and gritty vocals transport you back to the golden age of rock.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
