Mogul Thrash

Following James Litherland’s departure from Colosseum, the guitarist and vocalist formed James Litherland’s Brotherhood with trumpeter Michael Rosen, formerly of Eclection (and manager for Cressida). Arriving in London from his native Bournemouth, John Wetton was added on bass, along with two Scottish saxophone players, Roger Ball and Malcolm Duncan, better known as the “Dundee Horns.” Last to arrive was drummer Bill Harrison (real name Bill Atkinson). In mid-1970, the band teamed with Brian Auger to record an album, eventually christening themselves as Mogul Thrash, a parody name from a Spike Milligan sketch. Their self-titled debut album, with Auger producing, saw release on RCA in early 1971. It’s a stunning album, featuring a brashy combination of jazzy blues and loud horn arrangements. “Something Sad” blasts the album open. With a strong bass line and matching horns (all arranged by Ball), it’s easily in the same league as Colosseum. Litherland is a strong singer, especially when paired here with Wetton’s backing. The lengthy “Elegy” is classic blues rock. The horns take a rest for a good half of the song while Litherland’s guitar takes over; and if you ever wondered why Robert Fripp would later hire Wetton for King Crimson, just listen to his bass playing here-it’s simply stunning. Harrison’s kick drum features in “Dreams of Glass and Sand” but while “Going North, Going West” starts out with promise, it ultimately doesn’t go anywhere other than around. “St. Peter” features a lead vocal from Wetton and Auger on piano. The band’s single, “Sleeping in the Kitchen” b/w “St. Peter” hit the charts in Belgium, but despite touring extensively in Europe, they failed to find success in the UK and after a fallout with management, broke up shortly after the album’s release. Ball, Duncan and Rosen would form the Average White Band, while Wetton was off to Family. Litherland would end up in Bandit, after a brief stint with his next band, Million.