The Night Riders Introducing The Night Riders

The Night Riders: David Marlette (vocals, guitar, trumpet); Mac Lewis, Ray Atwater (vocals, guitar); Monte Allison (vocals, organ); Jon "Twogun" Johnson (vocals, drums); Steve Rogers (bass, drums).

Includes original release liner notes.

Personnel: Mac Lewis, David Marlette, Ray Atwater (vocals, guitar); Monte Allison (vocals, organ); Jon (Twogun) Johnson (vocals, drums); Steve Rogers (bass guitar, drums).

Liner Note Author: Mark Marymont.

One of the better garage rock recordings of its period, the dozen songs here, cut for Justice Records after the band had placed in the second runner-up spot in a local Battle of the Bands, are full of surprises. For starters, the presence of two rhythm guitarists gives the group a rich, thick-textured sound. The other big surprise is the balance struck between the organist and lead guitarist: Monte Allison and David Marlette make a perfect team of soloists. Allison's organ shifts effortlessly from background to foreground, and Marlette's guitar solos show an engaging, inventive sense of melody. The presence of a handful of very pleasing original numbers only enhances the value of this CD. Excellent sound, too. ~ Bruce Eder