SHAGRAT
Lone Star (Captain Trip)
Reviewed by Alan Wright

---

Shagrat were a short-lived group formed by former T. Rex member Steve Perregrine-Took and Larry Wallis of Pink Fairies fame. These seven songs were recorded in 1970-71, and are taken from old tapes and/or acetates, so the sound ain't pristine but it's an interesting glimpse into Took's post-T. Rex music and a good companion to the Crazy Diamond CD released a few years ago. The first four songs are acoustic-based, featuring Took on guitar and Wallis on bass, with Dave Bidwell adding some tambourine for a folksy sound not unlike early T. Rex. The other three tunes feature a full band with Wallis switching to wah-wahed out electric guitar and a more chaotic, heavier sound. "Peppermint Flickstick" is really freaked out sounding. "Boo! I Said Freeze" is also really cool, and the last song, "Steel Abortion," is unfortunately marred by crackling as it's taken from an obviously worn acetate. Still, this is a really worthwhile thing to check out.

[Pick this up at www.bolan.co.uk.]

© 2003 - Alan Wright