Genre: rock
Rating: *** (3 stars)
Title: Welcome
Company: AVCO Embassy
Catalog: AVE-33009
Year: 1970
Country/State: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Grade (cover/record): VG/VG
Comments: original inner sleeve
Available: 1
GEMM catalog ID: 4276
Price: $180.00
Cost: $66.00
It's interesting how many collectors have heard of this band, but know little or nothing about them ...
Formed in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Bead Game's original line up consisted of rhythm guitarist K. Westland Haag, singer/drummer Jim Hodder, keyboardist R. Gass, bassist Lassie Sachsand, and lead guitarist Jim Sheldon. Even though they apparently weren't big on rehearsals, the group managed to attract a local following on the Boston club circuit, eventually cutting a series of demos for a planned album that was promptly shelved until 1996.
Luckily, the group somehow captured the attention of AVCO Embassy Records, which promptly signed them to a recording contract. 1970'a "Welcome" was produced by Gary Kannon and recorded at New York's Record Plant. Featuring all original material, tracks such as 'Punchin Judy' and the fuzz guitar propelled 'Wax Circus' showcase an engaging mix of hard rock with occasional jazz touches. That may not sound particularly original or appealing, but their performances were actually quite attractive. Elsewhere, Hodder had a voice that was well suited to the group's attack (anyone into early Steely Dan will instantly recognize him). Highlights include the rocking 'Amos & Andy' and 'Mora'.
"Welcome" track listing:
(side 1)
1.) Punchin Judy (K. Westland Haag - Lassie Sachs) -
2.) Lady (K. Westland Haag - R. Gass) -
3.) Wax Circus (R. Gass) -
4.) Mora (K. Westland Haag) -
(side 2)
1.) Natural Song (K. Westland Haag) -
2.) Country Girls (K. Westland Haag) -
3.) Amos & Andy (K. Westland Haag - Lassie Sachs) -
4.) Slipping (K. Westland Haag - Lassie Sachs) -
For fanatics, there's a non-LP single 'Sweet Medusa' b/w Country Girls' (AVCO Embassy catalog number 4539). The group also contributed two songs to the AVCO Embassy financed anti-drug film "The People Next Door" (AVCO Embassy catalog number AV-11002).
Shortly after the album was released Hodder joined the newly formed Steely
Dan (see separate entry).
Sadly, Hodder died in June 1990. He was only 42 and apparently drown in his home swimming pool.