CAT STEVENS, HAMMER
Fillmore East, New York
Cat Stevens scored
a smashing triumph in his U.S. debut at BiIl Graham’s Fillmore East in the early
show, Nov. 18, the first of four midweek performances. Apparently nervous, Stevens started
slowly, but, by the time he reached "Peace Train," the communication level with
audience was intense.
‘Father and Son"
and "Wild World," especially the former, were among the good songs from
Stevens’ new A&M Records album, while "I Love My Dog," from his old
Deram Records days, also hit the mark. Stevens accompanied himself on acoustic guitar,
assisted by Alun Davies, also on acoustic guitar.
The up-tempo optimistic
songs, including "Changes," were among the most effective as Stevens showed when
he reprised "Peace Train" as his last selection. Traffic, the headliner, also
gave a strong set vastly improved from their previous Fillmore East appearances.
Hammer, a heavy San
Francisco Records quintet, opened the show with power and promise. John de Roberts was
good as lead vocalist, while the four instrumentalists all displayed considerable talents.
With blues, rock and jazz elements (even a classical hint). Hammer has yet to establish a
distinctive style.
FRED KIRBY
- Billboard Magazine
- 28th November 1970
- Courtesy Linda Crafar
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