Album Reviews

Some recent quotes re: 'Out of the Shadows' from Johnny Black
and various Amazon customers who enjoyed the album.

Amazon.co.uk Review
The voice of Colin Blunstone and the keyboards of Rod Argent--as heard again on Out Of The Shadows--were the two essential elements in the sound of The Zombies, arguably the most unfairly overlooked Brit rock band of the 1960s. With CD re-marketing of their classic catalogue having restored that band's standing, it might seem logical for them to re-form and trudge the nostalgia circuit alongside Gerry and the Pacemakers and the Swinging Blue Jeans. Thankfully, neither Blunstone nor Argent have ever been content to rest on their laurels. Individually, both men have produced consistently compelling work as performers, songwriters and producers over the past three decades. So, rather than re-form the Zombies, they made a more valid decision, to work together as a duo, with Argent writing the bulk of the songs, and the effortlessly angelic-sounding Blunstone voicing them. With long-time buddies like Argent's production partner Peter Van Hooke on drums, ace guitarist Clem Clempson and former Argent member Jim Rodford on bass, it's almost a family affair. The band certainly locks in tight behind Argent's songs, many of which--including the anguished "Helpless", the hopeful "Sanctuary" and the yearning opening cut "Home"--deserve to be heard time and again. --Johnny Black

Diverse and Refreshing, 25 November, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from Ohio,USA
I was extremely excited when I learned of the making of this disc. As expected, I was truly pleased. Rod Argent is a truly exceptional diverse keboardist and, mixed with Colin's vocals, they have produced a magical moment. Too bad these guys don't attract the attention they deserve. A great addition to anyones musical portfolio.

Beautifully produced - real quality., 24 November, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from West Sussex - UK
This is a beautifuly crafted album from two real professionals. Blunstone's voice seems to retain all its youth while the musicianship of Argent is outstanding. For those of us old enough to remember the Zombies it'll bring back a touch of nostagia even though all the tracks are modern. The quality of the recording is excellent and the CD will make a welcome addition to any collection - as well as being a real must for fans of Blunstone and Argent. If there is a weakness, this lies in some of the material and I couldn't help thinking that the quality of the artists' performance turned the odd rather ordinary song into something much better than it had a right to be - hence my rating of four rather than five stars.

A class act!, 29 April, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from Malvern
An excellent mix of earlier Argent songs plus the new work, beautifully sung by Colin, and supported by professionals. I saw them perform live in Worcester this month, and this is truly a class act. My favourite tracks are Helpless, Sanctuary, Mystified, and a Girl Like That (which is a touch of the Beatles). More please!

Simply put - buy it, 24 April, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from UK
One of the best albums so far this year. It just goes to proves the oldies last longer and have more style. Not for boy/girl band fans or record producers/companies who produce these manufactured tweenagers. For real music fans who enjoy people can write and play great songs. Jonathan - a real MUSIC fan...

Blimey!, 12 April, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from London
I can't seem to get past the first track ('Home', possibly one of Rod Argent's best songs ever), let alone get it out of the CD player, it's so good. Admittedly, there are one or two weaker songs,so if I could, I would give it 4.5 stars...sorry boys). You know that feeling when people perform new material at a gig and you hate it? Not these songs, which were involving and compelling from the first time I heard them, live. Colin's voice is as enthralling as ever, and it's so good to see the old firm back together. There's even a Motowny-sounding track, as you might expect from two ex-Zombie popsters. Such wonderful, grown up music to listen to when you think the world is all against you...instant feelgood!

High quality and original new material, 10 April, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from Solihull, United Kingdom
Three tracks stand out above all others on this album: Home, A Girl Like That (co-written by Russ Ballard) and Sanctuary - the latter being released as a single. Rod Argent describes the material as a 'departure from the usual style' - Haunting melodies combined with Colin Blunstone's breathy vocals and outstanding guitar playing from Mark Johns make this an essential addition to any true music lovers collection.

It's great to see Colin and Rod recording together again, 6 April, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from Manchester
I have looked forward to this album with mounting anticipation,it has certainly been worth the wait. The album is built around 3 major strengths Colins amazing voice, Rods songwriting abilities and musicianship. This album is truly original without relying on past glories, it contains music for today as only Colin and Rod can produce. Rods Hammond organ sounds fantastic creating a contemporary yet unique sound.

An absolutely excellent album, 1 April, 2001
Reviewer: A music fan from Halesowen, West Midlands
A superb album from Colin and Rod, I first heard several of the tracks played live and was overawed. The sheer power of 'A Girl like That', the nostalgic 'Home' and the gutsy R & B 'Mystify' show their songwriting versatility to the full.

To order this album and others by Rod, Colin & The Zombies, go to
Rod's on-line shop by clicking on the album cover below:

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