Tim Hardin 4 – TIM HARDIN***

Airmobile/Whiskey Whiskey/Seventh Son/How Long/Danville Dame/Ain’t Gonna Do Without Part I/Ain’t Gonna Do Without Part II/House Of The Rising Sun/Bo Diddley/I Can’t Slow Down/Hello Baby

Tim Hardin 4 was not a collection of new songs as the title might suggest but some earlier blues style recordings from five years earlier. It is a mix of original compositions and covers.

“This collection of demos, recorded in 1964 as an audition, was released in early 1969 as though it were a newly recorded album. The album holds some interest as a historical document. It's a batch of blues songs, mixing covers of Chess blues classics with Hardin’s original, though derivative, blues songs. The arrangements employ an understated, low-key folky mix, as opposed to a more overt Chicago electric blues sound. Still, there's more drive to the music than on a typical mid-'60s folk album. This is not essential listening by any means, but it's pleasant enough to hear on a lazy, cloud-covered afternoon.”

“An unusual album by Tim Hardin's standards, with straight ahead blues writing and playing, with the standout track in minor blues, House Of The Rising Sun. Even though a collection of demo recordings, it's essential for the understanding of the many facets of the performer.”

“Drawn from mid 60s demos Hardin recorded when trying to obtain a recording deal, backed by a full band, this was one of his most varied releases. Showcasing Hardin at his most playful, Airmobile was a wonderful leadoff selection. Others showcased a surprisingly competent feel for the blues. Among the few missteps are the dull Danville Dame and a death march tempo House Of The Rising Sun.”

“Tim Hardin's version of the blues deviates a bit from his earlier more folky albums. Every song on the album is a blues progression featuring Tim's gritty voice bouncing off an unknown blues harp. Most of the songs are penned by Hardin, but he throws in covers of Bo Diddley and House Of The Rising Sun that fit right in. Not exactly groundbreaking but it certainly demonstrates the breadth of Hardin's talents.”

“Tim Hardin 4 present Tim the bluesman. Though he's best known for soft, introspective folk-rock tunes, the blues was an important part of Hardin's musical makeup. While the songs aren't as distinctive or idiosyncratic as those found on 3, this is still Hardin in his prime.”