Human Condition

Canned Heat lived on the wild side while enjoying immense popularity, primarily during the early to late '70s. This production marks vocalist Bob "The Bear" Hite's last complete recording with the band due to his passing on April 5, 1981. Recorded in 1977 and released in 1978, this set features guest appearances by blues-rock guitarist Harvey Mandel and backing vocals by the Chambers Brothers on selected tracks. Essentially, this affair features a fairly typical exposition of what many listeners would come to expect, as the group works its way through a series of high-octane blues, rock, and boogie motifs. Hite was in good form throughout while also displaying potent chops as a viable blues harpist whereas guitarists Mark Skyer, Chris Morgan, and Mandel implement raucous crunch chords amid some scathing lead lines. Hence, this effort represents a hearty snapshot of the quintet's overall appeal. There are some memorable tracks here, although this offering didn't garner widespread recognition upon its initial release.