While influence of many a cult classic gets reassessed over the years, usually perceived to be diminishing, the shadow of LEAF HOUND‘s self-titled 1970 album, more commonly known under the “Growers Of Mushroom” legend, remains long. One of the first stoner-rock ensembles, their blend of proto-metal and psychedelia is still stunning, and the collective, who broke up soon after that platter was out, returned to the fray in 2004, fronted by singer Peter French, have been raring to compete with their own past for years. The veterans’ second offering, “Unleashed” from 2007 almost nailed their intent, with 2014’s “Live In Japan” cementing the band’s status, the just-released “Once Bitten” might be the best proof of their vitality.
A solid contender for “hard-rock – with prog elements – album of the year” mantle, it’s a fantastic work, full of riffs with a couple of tremulous ballads thrown in for good measure, plus a fresh version of “Freelance Fiend” which originally was an outtake from the group’s debut, that is already available for streaming, but there’s also a CD version. Highly recommended – and watch this pages as there’s a chance for an interview with the vocalist who left ATOMIC ROOSTER to create his own gem.
Once Bitten
1. Burn The House Down
2. Cinderella
3. Broken Dreams
4. Chain Gang
5. Watching Life’s Wheels
6. Yippee Ki Yay
7. A Poor Boy
8. Thought Police
9. Everybody’s Somebody Tonight
10. Bold ‘N’ Easy
11. Hold Back The Night
12. Freelance Fiend
13. High Danger
