Creedence Clearwater Revival
Cosmo’s Factory / Pendulum
Fantasy/Concord Records
Often credited with being rock’s original “roots” band, no American group was bigger in 1970 than Creedence Clearwater Revival. In fact, the success of their four albums that produced six hit singles in 18 months rivaled even that of The Beatles. And just in time to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the group’s 1968 self-titled debut, Fantasy (Concord) Records has re-released the complete re-mastered original CCR catalog on compact disc.
Produced by the group’s leader, vocalist, guitarist, and chief songwriter, John Fogerty, Cosmo’s Factory was originally released in July 1970. It quickly vaulted to the #1 spot on the Billboard chart and became the most successful record of the group’s relatively brief career. Featuring such classics as “Travelin’ Band,” “Run Through the Jungle,” “Up Around the Bend,” “Who’ll Stop the Rain,” and “I Heard it Through the Grapevine,” Cosmo’s is practically its own Greatest Hits package! The sound quality of the newly re-mastered version is so pristine, so crystal clear, that at times you can almost hear John and guitarist brother Tom Fogerty in the background squabbling over royalties! John Fogerty’s experimentation with keyboards, saxophone, tape effects, and layered vocals, along with great songs, helped to make Cosmo’s Factory CCR’s Abbey Road. For diehard fans, this package also includes several rare “must have” bonus tracks.
Released in December 1970 and also produced by Fogerty, the aptly titled Pendulum marked the beginning of the end for the once unstoppable CCR. After years of infighting between those darn Fogerty boys, Tom quit the band (permanently this time) during the recording sessions for Pendulum. Peaking at #5 , the record yielded only one Top 10 single, the double-sided hit, “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” with “Hey Tonight.” Yet, despite its fewer hit singles, Pendulum does contain its fair share of gems, including the gritty opening track, “Pagan Baby” and the R&B flavored “Chameleon.” The re-mastered Pendulum also features several previously unreleased bonus tracks.
