PETRA - 1974 - Myrrh

Petra's first album starts off right away with some amazing dual guitar leads and an upbeat, happy southern-fried rock sound. The first time I heard this, I was pleasantly surprised by how much it "rocked" because of the fact that the earliest version of Petra I heard previously was Washes Whiter Than, which is a relatively light album when compared to the rest of their catalogue. Many people are not aware of this album (or their 2nd album "Come and Join Us") because it was before they were signed with Star Sang, who infamously released about 10 compilation albums with Petra's songs. The guitar tone is amazing. The band is super tight and drummer is absolutely stunning. The production is very good, probably better than most anything that came out of 1974, even by secular standards. The only weakness on this album really is the vocals. There is a reason why Petra eventually hired a lead singer. However, that doesn't mean the vocals are terrible. Bob's voice works for the 70s country/rock style of the time, and Greg Hough is no slouch either. But both are equally far better guitarists. This album also features the only bluegrass song that Petra ever recorded. After a funny intro monologue, Bob Hartman jumps in with the banjo and displays his amazing skill at playing the instrument. He's also a great singer for that kind of music. And the song is just downright hilarious! You gotta wait for the ending... The highlight of the album is "Gonna Fly Away". It has an awesome guitar riff, fun to sing lyrics, and the solo in the middle is extended, long, and quite beautiful. Storm Comin' and Get Back to the Bible are also great rockers that are sure you get you in a good mood. The only weak point on the album is Backslidin' Blues, but the chorus is kind of fun to sing. Overall, I'd give this album a solid 7 out of 10.

RATING:

SONG LIST:

1. Wake Up

2. Get Back to The Bible

3. Gonna Fly Away

4. Storm Comin'

5. Parting Thought

6. Walkin' In the Light

7. Mountains and the Valleys

8. Lucas McGraw

9. Backslidin' Blues

10. I'm Not Ashamed

Petra was:

Bob Hartman: Guitars, Vocals

Greg Hough: Guitars, Vocals

Mike Degroff: Bass

Bill Glover: Drums

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