Nutz - Hard Nutz (1977) [2018 Rock Candy Remastered]

“Hard Nutz” is the third album from this British band, on this reissue including 6 bonus tracks.

Nutz had been building a solid reputation in the UK as one of the best rock bands emerging during the mid-seventies. By constant touring and two previous well received albums under their belt, the band had secured a solid fan base and strong support in the media, helping to position them as an act to watch for bigger and better things.
Under normal circumstances that would have all been well and good but the times they were a changing. The emergence of punk rock looming over their shoulders suddenly turned a very sunny outlook into something altogether gloomier.

Sadly, as we now know, the punk climate was not conducive to the kind of traditional hard rock that Nutz had made their own.

Featuring new member Kenny Newton on keyboards, “Hard Nutz” was greeted with an enthusiastic reception by their devoted fan base. Produced by Gary Lyons and John Sinclair (who would that same year produce the multi-million selling debut from Foreigner) the album was overwhelmed by the emergence of punk, leaving them to flounder in the mainstream.



The last studio album from Nutz shows a strong lyrical growth from their sophomore effort, and is also improved by the presence of keyboard player Kenny Newton.
The band turns in their usual bluesy boogie rock with progressive elements, but with a bit more hard rock vigor and nuance than usual. There are some interesting transitions between songs and some genuinely inventive arrangements.


Tracks:

01 – Seeing is Believing
02 – I Know the Feeling
03 – Loser
04 – From Here to Anywhere
05 – Wallbanger
06 – Pushed Around
07 – Beast of the Field
08 – Sick and Tired
09 – Down on My Knees
10 – One More Cup of Coffee
BONUS TRACKS:
11 – Seeing is Believing (Live)
12 – Loser (Live)
13 – Pushed Around (Live)
14 – One More Cup of Coffee (Live)
15 – Beast of the Field (Live)
16 – Wallbanger (Live)

Personnel:

Vocals – Dave Lloyd
Guitar – Mick Devonport
Bass – Keith Mulholland
Drums – John Mylett
Keyboards – Kenny Newton