This CD presents for the first time in one collection the complete recorded works between 1965 and 1968 of the group called the Riot Squad, or should that be the two groups called The Riot Squad. After three singles, leader sax player Bob Evans formed a completely different group but kept the name. Included in the many line-up changed were on David Bowie, his only recordings being bootlegged demos that are not featured here. Another member was drummer Mitch Mitchell who left to join Georgie Fames Blue Flames and then the Jimi Hendrix Experience.

The first three singles are soul inspired songs or soul covers like Curtis Mayfields composition "Neverless (I Love You)". From then on the records were produced by legendary British producer Joe Meek who had his own distinct sound which he had featured on big hits like the Tremoloes "Telstar" and records by Heinz and John Leyton. Unfortunately his magic did not work for the Riot Squad who despite their good musicianship never had any great commercial success with their records and thus acquired their cult status.

Derek McCann