FREE: "Fire and Water"

Original released on LP Island ILPS 9120

(UK 1970, June 26)

If Fleetwood Mac or Humble Pie had never formed, Free would be considered one of the greatest post-Beatles blues-rock bands, and "Fire and Water" shows why. Conceptually fresh, with a great, roots-oriented, Band-like feel, the album found Free distinguishing itself with the public like Black Sabbath and Deep Purple did (in terms of impact only) in 1970. Free presented itself to the world as a complete band, in every sense of the word. From Paul Kossoff's exquisite and tasteful guitar work to Paul Rodgers' soulful vocals, this was a group that was easily worthy of the mantle worn by Cream, Blind Faith, or Derek & the Dominos. They have been unique for their characteristic melancholy moods, their musicianship and their songwriting. This album, that brings three of their best known songs, is their masterpiece. Eric Clapton adored Paul Kossoff for his vibrato on guitar and Rod Stewart claimed Paul Rodgers to be the best singer of the whole decade! You will still find "Mr. Big" in the repertoire of great guitarists as Warren Haynes and others. (in AllMusic)