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Nazareth Boogaloo Review by Gary Hill In the `70`s Nazareth were one of the premier bands in the field of fun, solid rock and roll music. As time wore on, they seemed to struggle in trying to redefine their sound. Some of the music they did in that period was great, some was good, some was somewhat less than good. This album is really a triumphant return to the wonderful music of yesterday for the band. It definitely captures that sort of sound, while updating it at the same time. The musicians on this album are Jimmy Murrison, Dan McCafferty, Ronnie Leahy, Darrell Sweet and Pete Agnew. This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: The Early Years Volume 4 at garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-The-Early-Years .

Track by Track Review

Light Comes Down A strong rocking boogie number, this one has classic Nazareth textures and some interesting twists. The cut has been receiving some welcome radio play, at least in this market.

Cheerleader A fast rocker with a very Zeppelinish feel, this one is still all Naz.

Loverman A soulful high-energy rock and roll song, this one comes complete with a horn section. The number comes across as one part Nazareth, one part James Brown, one part Peter Wolf and one part Aerosmith with a Beatlesesque chorus.

Open Up Woman This is a strong rocker in the Nazareth tradition.

Talk Talk Starting a bit like Rabin era Yes, this is an energetic and melodic rock song with blues and folk roots.

Party in the Kremlin After a funky, keyboard based intro, this is a pleasing groove-riff-driven song. It is a remarkable updating of the classic Nazareth sound, and a very fun number.

God Save The South A marvelous organ sound begins this number, which is a delightful slow blues tune. If you like your blues gritty and unhurried, this track is definitely for you.

Robber and The Roadie Featuring more honky tonk piano, this is a nicely bouncy rock and roll song.

Waiting Waiting is another solid down-tempo rocker.

May Heaven Keep You Beginning in a pretty piano based arrangement, this is a potent ballad in the early segments. Later movements take on lushly progish textures and include moments a bit reminiscent of late era Guns and Roses.

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