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Originally released in 1975 and 1976 on the Chrysalis label and now available for the first time as a 2 on 1 CD.
The name “Sassafras” is derived from the word for an American/Mexican tree root, used to make perfume, dyes, beer and tea!
Legendary Welsh Boogie Rockers Sassafras were founded in 1970 and originally comprised the trio of vocalist/guitarist Ralph Evans, guitarist Dai Shell and bassist Ricky John Holt.
The band split up the same year but then reformed with former cabaret singer Terry ‘Beefy’ Bennettand former Love Sculpture drummer Robert ‘Congo’ Jones. The band toured extensively, often as headliners, and this hard work, combined with numerous radio broadcasts, paid off with a deal from Polydor Records in 1973.
The band went through a succession of drummers and lineup changes – Rob Reynolds, the former Universe and Dragonfly sticksman, initially occupied the drumstool. After their debut album, bassist Holt was replaced by ex-Universe man Steve Finn– although Holt returned shortly after. Universe are well-known for their guitarist Paul Chapman– who went on to play with Skid Row, Lonestarand UFO.
As well as obtaining a useful TV slot on the Old Grey Whistle Test, the band continued to tour extensively with Stackridge, Black Oak Arkansas, Ace, American Gypsy and Ten Years After. Robert Jones left before the first of the albums featured here, replaced by Chris Shirley– who then left to join Hobo, being replaced by Dick Owenfor a short spell.
Jones then returned for the ‘Riding High’ album. Bennett eventually left to form Kracatoawhich later featured Ray Philips from Budgie. The band is still gigging and these days the line-up features Dai Shell Lead Guitar, Ralph Evans Lead guitar Vocals, Ray Jones Bass Guitar Vocals, Richard Galloni Vocals percussion, Gary Davies Drums, Marco James Keyboards and stuff.
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SASSAFRAS Wheelin
'N' Dealin'/ Riding High WHEELIN’ ’N’ DEALIN’
1. Wheelin’ ’N’ Dealin’
2. Highway Skies
3. Hamburg Song
4. Moonshine
5. Peanut Man
6. Box Car Hobo
7. Ohio
8. Soul Destroyer
RIDING HIGH:
9. Riding High
10. Nothin’ To Lose
11. Bad Blood
12. See Through A Mountain
13. New York Collapse
14. Small Town Talk
15. Long Shot Lover
16. The Band Refuse To Play
17. Keep Rock’N’Roll Like It Used To Be
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