The Underrated Legacy of Montrose and Molly Hatchet: Hidden Gems of Classic Rock
Introduction
Classic rock is a treasure trove of musical brilliance, with countless bands that have left an indelible mark on the genre. However, amidst the vast array of iconic acts, some remain under-appreciated. Two such bands are Montrose and Molly Hatchet. In this article, we will explore the overlooked contributions of Montrose and Molly Hatchet, delving into their unique styles, standout tracks, and influence on the classic rock scene.
About Montrose
Montrose is an English quintet that has often flown under the radar despite their rich and pioneering sound. The band, led by Ron Moore, has been likened to the likes of Rush, Genesis, and Pink Floyd, yet they have received far less recognition.
Montrose's Impact and Influence
Montrose's discography is marked by their ability to blend progressive rock with the raw energy of classic rock. Their 21 studio albums showcase a versatile and evolving musical journey. Notable hits like "Owner of a Lonely Heart," while significant, only scratch the surface of what Montrose can offer. Their albums are filled with intricate compositions and epic tracks that tell compelling stories. For instance, 'Rocket Love' (an 18-minute journey) demonstrates their complex song structures and varied layering of musical elements, making them a true avant-garde within classic rock.
Underrated Album - Montrose (1973)
The dynamics of Montrose's influence are perhaps most evident in their debut album, which was released in 1973. Despite a lack of initial fanfare, this album has since gained recognition for its innovative and dense musical compositions. Tracks such as 'Rock Candy, ' 'Rock the Nation, ' 'Space Station 5, ' and 'Bad Motor Scooter' have become fan favorites and are often considered among the band's best work. This album is often cited as one of the band's most underrated offerings, even being deemed one of the top three albums in the band's catalog by many enthusiasts.
About Molly Hatchet
Molly Hatchet is another band that has been criminally underrated in the context of classic rock. Despite their extensive airplay and the popularity of their most recognizable tracks, their overall impact on the genre remains underappreciated.
Molly Hatchet's Notable Tracks
One of Molly Hatchet's most striking tracks is 'The Fall of the Peacemakers.' This epic, jam-packed track showcases the band's continuation of the Southern rock genre with a heavy emphasis on powerful riffs and melodic solos. The song is notable for its raw energy and the seamless transitions that make it a true classic. Additionally, 'Rock on!!!' is another standout track that has become a staple at concerts and music festivals.
UnDXVECTOR5 Popularity
While Molly Hatchet's airplay has helped boost their visibility, their most famous single, 'The Unenary Gun,' is arguably the song that has done the most to draw attention to the band. Despite this success, the band's extensive discography and contributions to the genre have largely been overshadowed by this one hit. Tracks like 'You're Only in It for the Money' and 'The Honkin' Mad Drummer' further cement their place in the rock music hall of fame, even if they aren't as widely known.
Conclusion
Both Montrose and Molly Hatchet are prime examples of bands that have contributed to the rich tapestry of classic rock in ways that many underappreciate. These bands offer a wealth of musical depth and innovation, and their contributions to the genre should not be overlooked. Whether it's Montrose's progressive rock experiments or Molly Hatchet's Southern rock prowess, these artists deserve a more prominent place in the pantheon of classic rock legends.