Pure Hell, very much a punk band in the original form, hail from Philadelphia and were active in New York from 74 to 78 along with the likes of New York Dolls. Their sound is inspired, as many bands of this time were, by The Stooges and The MC5.

If you’re from the UK you may well remember the band’s version of These Boots Are Made For Walking that made the alternative chart over here in 78, and it’s included here too, you’ll be pleased to know…it’s brilliant!

Managed by Jimi Hendrix associate Curtis Knight, Pure Hell are first generation New York punk in its finest form – raucous, belligerent and fast. This album, out the 29^th January, harks back to music in its rawest and most unadulterated form and is an absolute blast. However, this is not simple three chord punk rock and the screaming lead of Preston Morris (Chip Wreck) cuts through the tunes with visceral ferocity, whilst the rhythm section of Kerry Boles ((Lenny Still) and Michael Sanders (Spider) provide a solid backdrop. Kenny Gordon’s (Stinker) vocals are delivered in a style that is primal and ever so New York 70s early punk.  This is accomplished music in any terms.

OK, Pure Hell, may not have enjoyed the success of others that came out of that scene but their influence is clear. This record lay unreleased for an almost criminal twenty seven years (it was released in 2005) after Pure Hell fell out with Curtis Knight whilst they were on tour in London and he stashed the original tapes away in a fit of spite. However, this rerelease, and the accompanying DVD of the band in the studio and sleeve notes highlight just what a great band Pure Hell were in the studio (and I imagine freakin awesome live) and this album will appeal not only to punkers of a certain age, but also to those who love fast paced, energetic, in your face music delivered with musical talent and attitude in spades.

Progsters need not apply!

Highly, highly recommended!!!