I think I’m right in saying that Outrider is Mr Page’s only solo album. I know he has done different collaborations and guest spots, but I’m sure someone will let me know if I’m wrong.
The album kicks off with two tracks that have John Miles on vocals. Now, if you’re like me you will only know John from his hit song Music, and it’s a revelation to hear him belting out heavy blues rock. Wasting My Time and Wanna Make Love sound like Zeppelin tracks with those trademark Page riffs and Miles killer vocals. Writes Of Winter follows and is an instrumental piece with a really cool swing and groove. The Only One has Mr. Plant on vocals and is my favourite track on the album. A really busy riff and groove and it actually doesn’t sound like Zeppelin. Liquid Mercury closes out Side 1 and is another instrumental. The tune feels like some soundtrack to an American cop show.
Side 2 begins with Hummingbird, a slow blues ballad with Chris “Motorbiking” Farlowe on vocals. In fact, there is a big blues presence throughout Side 2. Emerald Eyes is another instrumental that again, feels like a soundtrack to some TV show and is the track I like the least. Prison Blues is a throwback to Page’s days gone by and his love of the blues wth Chris Farlowe again on vocals. The album closes out with Blues Anthem, a big power ballad with strings and everything. I really like Side 1 but Side 2 tales off quickly.
7.5/10 from The Grooveman.
