SNAFU: The Complete Anthology of 70s British Rock Legends | Box Set Review
This collection, titled It Ain’t Easy: The Anthology 1974-1976, looks into history of this often overlooked band. This comprehensive box set from Grapefruit Records, a subsidiary of Cherry Red.
This anthology is presented in a clamshell box and includes four CDs, each representing different phases of SNAFU’s brief but impactful career:
SNAFU (1974)
Situation Normal (1975)
All Funked Up (1976)
Live BBC Sessions & Concert (1975-1976)
The box set also includes a detailed booklet that replicates the gatefold sleeves and provides extensive liner notes, press clippings, gig posters, and memorabilia. The booklet’s rich storytelling connects the dots from the band’s origins to their live performances.
The Band Members
Micky Moody: Guitarist, formerly of Juicy Lucy, later to join Whitesnake.
Bobby Harrison: Vocalist and drummer, who was previously with the band Freedom.
Colin Gibson: Bass
Peter Solley: Keyboards,
Terry Popple: Drummer,
The Albums
SNAFU (1974)
The debut album showcases the band’s southern rock influences, reminiscent of the Allman Brothers during their Brothers and Sisters period. The opening track, “Long Gone,” sets the tone with its driving rhythm and bluesy feel. Despite the album’s strengths, the band’s mix of country and southern rock might have been a bit jarring for some listeners, causing them to fly under the radar at the time.
Situation Normal (1975)
Their second album continues the blend of southern rock and country influences but with more cohesion. Tracks like “Playboy Blues” highlight Micky Moody’s exceptional guitar work, making it a must-listen for fans of his later work with Whitesnake. Bobby Harrison’s gravelly, blues-drenched vocals shine throughout the album, providing a strong, emotive core to the band’s sound.
All Funked Up (1976)
This album represents SNAFU at their peak, blending funk and rock seamlessly. The funk rock elements, with gritty vocals, robust bass lines, and hard rock guitar riffs, make this a standout. The band’s energy and tight musicianship come to the fore, showing their potential to break into the mainstream, even if it didn’t quite happen as planned.
Live BBC Sessions & Concert (1975-1976)
The live recordings capture SNAFU’s raw and energetic performance style. Their renditions of “Every Little Bit Hurts,” “Hard to Handle,” and “Don’t Keep Me Wondering” demonstrate their prowess as a live act, with influences from southern rock giants like the Allman Brothers and Otis Redding evident in their covers.
Conclusion: A Hidden Gem of 70s Rock
Despite not achieving massive commercial success, their music is a testament to the rich, diverse sounds of 70s rock. The band’s blend of southern rock, country, and funk, along with standout performances from each member, make this box set a must-have for enthusiasts of the era.
For those who missed SNAFU the first time around, this anthology offers a perfect opportunity to rediscover a band that deserves more recognition. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, It Ain’t Easy: The Anthology 1974-1976 is a fantastic addition to any collection.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
