The Rabbit's Hat - "Outsiders"
The Rabbit's Hat have their previously cassette only release of "Outsiders" out on compact disc. It has been extended with extra tracks and as usual Tony Morland's brilliant lyrics are interpreted by Tim Jones, Terri B and the gang. I love the title "Evilution"- says it all in a word. The Rabbit's Hat are sure to make it big soon and if you have not heard any of their albums then this is a good place to start. The wall-of-sound production is great on "Don't Stand Against The Skyline". Menage'a'Trois" sounds like Steven Stills, a hauntingly beautiful vocal built up in layers, also similar to The Strawbs or perhaps Jane Relf in Renaissance. The cascading guitar solo reminds me of Ray Manzarek's keyboard solo on The Doors "Riders On The Storm". "Charitied Out" is a powerful song indeed - the selfishness of charitable organisations, the homeless and the starving plus the national lottery, and the general feeling of "What's In It For Me?". I love "Wrap Me In Your Skin", perfect for a Terri B vocal, a love song for the early hours of the morning, with Crosby, Stills and Nash's "Marakesh Express" emerging through the mirage of sound. The vocal is almost spat at the listener on "Hydra" - two faced people or perhaps multi-faced people. The influences never detract, the lyrics are some of the best I have read/heard for some considerable time. This is music for the 90s with the sound at times of the 70s. I recommend them to you, you will not be disappointed.
by Ken Brooks - Art Beat Reader