The Wildweeds were a popular regional group (Windsor, CT) that had a big hit with blue-eyed soul classic No Good To Cry in 1967. More significantly, this was guitarist Al Anderson’s first successful pop rock group. They are primarily known for their early Cadet sides but this album, which Vanguard released in 1970, is a radical departure from their mid 60s blue-eyed soul sound. The Wildweeds album is never mentioned along with the best of the early roots rock classics but to me, its as good as many of those albums.

Wildweeds is characterized by Anderson’s warm vocals, concise guitar work and the group’s tight rhythm section. Anderson’s clean cut guitar solo on And When She Smiles says more in twenty seconds than most guitarists say throughout the space of an entire album. Anderson is a true musician’s musician, who understands the impact of playing with emotion and feel, an approach he’d take to NRBQ. Other highlights are the country kicker Belle, a whimsical number that’s notable for its pretty harmonies and fine dobro guitar work. This album’s strength lies in its variety and consistency. Fantasy Child finds the group playing gutbucket country and while its lyrics are downbeat, this is a superb track. My Baby Left Me, a strong slice of rockabilly written by Arthur Big Boy Crudup and folk rock album opener Baby Please Don’t Leave Me Today are also well worth a spin. It goes without saying that this album is highly recommended.

Baby Please Don’t Leave Me Today

Fantasy Child

Wildweeds | 1970 | Vanguard |ebay ]