April 21 – Monday – Ten Years After – Cricklewood Green

The only thing I remember about our second trip to the Fillmore East the summer before my friend moved to Miami, was that we were there to see the main act, and the main act only – Ten Years After. More specifically to see the group’s leader, Alvin Lee. Well, that and I remember that there was a mix-up in the tickets so when we got to the Fillmore we got a refund and standing room in the back. That was fine, no heads in front of us, clear view, but we were also subjected to a horny little usher named Caesar, pronounced as in Julius.

And I didn’t remember much about this album, nor what to expect, but as it turns out, it is a real good workout record with some mighty fine tunes, if you like that British bluesy rock sound with a psychedelic edge, which I guess I do. It’s made it to the Ram alternative list for its appropriate pace and for the mere thought of Alvin Lee, known for a fast guitar and the finest cheekbones this side of Willy DeVille. The song “Love Like a Man” – ooh, ooh, ooh, is all I have to say. That’s followed on side two by the ponderous “Circles,” which demonstrates how Lee’s many talents and appearance could overshadow his singing abilities, or lack thereof. I can forgive him now, particularly since he just passed away a year ago March, but I think back in the day I was less forgiving and more oblivious to his shortcomings and just thought everything he did was great.

Max has been a bit lethargic lately. I thought it might have something to do with this weekend’s selections. But then he threw up on the rug this evening, and has been running around like a maniac since. When he’s into it, Max hangs out with me throughout the workout until the chanting. Maybe I’ve said that before, but tonight he was real obvious about it. I think I actually saw him roll his eyes before he walked away. He did return for the stretching at the end.

Ssssh.