Classic Reissues of Spooky Tooth’s “It’s All About” and “Spooky Two”
Proper Records, in collaboration with Universal Music Recordings, are reissuing “It’s All About” and “Spooky Two,” the first two albums by the much-loved and greatly missed Spooky Tooth.
In the 21st century, Spooky Tooth remains somewhat under the radar. Despite being signed to Island Records and offering a heady brew of heavy blues and soul, their music, beloved by the underground in the late ’60s, is still ripe for rediscovery. Formed from the group Art, featuring vocalist Mike Harrison, guitarist Luther Grosvenor, bassist Greg Ridley, and drummer Mike Kellie, Spooky Tooth came into being with the addition of American-in-London keyboard player Gary Wright, suggested by Chris Blackwell.
“It’s All About” (1968)
Recorded at Olympic Studios and produced by Jimmy Miller, their debut album, “It’s All About,” is a powerful blend of soul-tinged rock, suffused with sweetness on both originals and carefully chosen covers. Released in June 1968, it includes a version of Bob Dylan’s “Too Much of Nothing,” a blistering take on the Nashville Teens’ “Tobacco Road,” and the Jimmy Miller-Gary Wright co-write “It’s About A Roundabout,” which has a driving beat reminiscent of Northern Soul. “It’s All About” is a lovely, often surprising album that offers a unique listening experience.
“Spooky Two” (1969)
Released in March 1969, “Spooky Two” is heavier and less quirky than the debut. It includes a remarkable version of Larry Weiss’ “Evil Woman,” a heavy nine-minute blues track that established Luther Grosvenor as one of the great British guitarists of his era. Gary Wright’s originals shine on this album, with tracks like the Cream-inspired “Lost In My Dream” and the storming “Better By You, Better Than Me,” later covered by Judas Priest. Mike Harrison’s voice is in fine form throughout, making “Spooky Two” one of the great British rock records of the late ’60s.
Audiophile Reissues
Both “It’s All About” and “Spooky Two” are presented with meticulous attention to the detail of the original UK first pressings and are available on audiophile 180gm vinyl. Whether you’re replacing much-loved originals or adding to your collection afresh, this is a great way to enjoy such enduring and influential music.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
