Back catalogue: Rock

Review: This compilation celebrates the enduring legacy of Creedence Clearwater Revival, one of America's greatest rock bands. Though their time together was brief, CCR's impact on music history is undeniable. This collection gathers twenty of their most iconic tracks, spanning their prolific career and showcasing their unique blend of swamp rock, roots, and blues. From the timeless anthems 'Proud Mary' and 'Born on the Bayou' to the soulful balladry of 'Have You Ever Seen the Rain' and the gritty rock 'n' roll of 'Fortunate Son', this compilation is a testament to CCR's songwriting prowess and their ability to craft unforgettable melodies. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to their music, this collection is an essential addition to any music library.

Review: A defining moment in the evolution of swamp rock from the opening notes of 'Born on the Bayou', the album pulling listeners into a world of misty Southern nights and raw Americana. John Fogerty's gritty vocals and evocative storytelling are perfectly matched by the band's tight, blues-infused instrumentation. 'Proud Mary' stands as the album's crown jewel, with its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics, cementing the band's place in rock history. Tracks like 'Bootleg' exude a carefree, backwoods groove, while 'Penthouse Pauper' burns with bluesy intensity. The sprawling 'Graveyard Train' drips with atmospheric melancholy, its hypnotic rhythm creating an almost trance-like experience. Now reissued on Tangerine vinyl, the album closes with 'Keep on Chooglin'', an energetic jam that shows the band's ability to build momentum and deliver electrifying performances. Fogerty's searing guitar work and the rhythm section's relentless drive make it an exhilarating finale. With Bayou Country, CCR fused blues, rock and country into a sound that feels timeless and uniquely their own.

Review: The Ruby Anniversary of Creedence Clearwater Revival's fourth studio album is upon us. An intriguing conceptual detour by the swamp rock swashbucklers, Willy and the Poor Boys was at first thunk as concept record, centring on a bizarro alternate version of the band; also the album's namesake. This idea was quickly scrapped in light of its inspirations, which took after the commercially unappealing idea of a wandering jug band, busking their way through great depressive dog days. It proved the right move: anthems 'Fortunate Son' and 'Down On The Corner' proved monumental hits. This edition also includes bonus tracks and live versions, as well as an unreleased studio version of 'Down On The Corner', recorded with Booker T & The MGs.

Review: Originally released in 1970, the band's fifth album combined rock, blues, country and r&b into one of the most powerful, cohesive and electrifying packages that was ever released. The album features an unparalleled string of hits, including the anthemic 'Who'll Stop the Rain', the rollicking 'Travelin' Band', the brooding 'Run Through the Jungle' and the jubilant 'Lookin' Out My Back Door'. John Fogerty's songwriting strikes a balance between apocalyptic dread and whimsical nostalgia, creating a vivid tapestry of post-'60s America. The band's cover of Marvin Gaye's 'I Heard It Through the Grapevine' transforms the Motown classic into an 11-minute blues-rock odyssey, showcasing their exceptional musicianship and Fogerty's fiery guitar work. Opening with the dynamic 'Ramble Tamble', the album embodies the restless energy of a band pushing its creative limits. From the wild country-funk of the opener to the soulful balladry of 'Long as I Can See the Light', Cosmo's Factory moves effortlessly between moods. Every trackiwhether a hit single or a deeper cut like 'Ooby Dooby'idemonstrates Creedence's mastery of rhythm, melody and raw emotion. More than half a century later, Cosmo's Factory remains a cornerstone of classic rock. Its blend of tight, no-frills production and timeless songwriting continues to resonate, capturing the tumult and spirit of its era while feeling as fresh as ever. This red vinyl reissue ensures the music looks as good as it sounds.