Diesel - Hepfidelity (2LP) - 30th Anniversary Milky Clear Vinyl

Born in Massachusetts and the youngest of seven, Mark Lizotte aka DIESEL grew up in Australia and in the U.S. He formed the band ‘Johnny Diesel & The Injectors’ in 1986 from remnants of a previous band before embarking on a solo career in 1991. With over 35 singles, multiple number 1 albums, 6 ARIA awards and a million records sold, DIESEL is a journeyman of music. With blues music in his DNA, an influence largely from his father’s record collection, DIESEL has blended styles to come up with a truly unique sound, punctuated with his distinct guitar playing and vocals.

2022 marks the 30th anniversary of Diesel’s first solo record, Hepfidelity. Featuring the singles ‘Tip Of My Tongue’, ‘Man Alive’ and more, the record was a huge hit – reaching #1 on the ARIA charts and staying there for 4 weeks.

To celebrate the momentous anniversary, Diesel has uncovered 10 unreleased tracks from the era that were recorded around the world. This turns the original 11-track record into a double album, which will be pressed in full on vinyl for the first time ever

First time on vinyl - 10 new tracks

The world of music is strewn with albums that capture the essence of an era, and Diesel's "Hepfidelity" is undeniably one such gem. Released in 1992, "Hepfidelity" is a robust blend of rock, soul, and a touch of blues that both reflected and influenced the musical landscape of the early '90s. With its gritty grooves and sincere lyricism, Diesel managed to craft an album that still resonates with listeners even decades later.

From the outset, the album’s standout track "Tip of My Tongue" sets the tone with its infectiously catchy melody and effortlessly cool vibe. This track encapsulates Diesel's talent, not just as a singer and guitarist but also as a songwriter. The instrumentation, characterized by a sultry blend of guitar licks and compelling rhythms, elevates the listening experience, making it one of the defining tracks of Diesel's career.

However, it would be remiss to solely highlight the album's popular tracks and ignore the hidden treasures. "Man Alive" is a stirring piece, accentuated by Diesel's raw vocal delivery that makes you sit up and pay attention. Then there's "One More Time," a blues-infused number that is both poignant and uplifting. The melody is haunting, and the lyrics are dripping with introspection. Diesel’s prowess as a storyteller shines here, weaving narratives that feel personal, yet universal.

Another jewel in the album is "Come to Me." The fusion of rock with traces of funk makes for an exhilarating listen. Diesel's voice, gruff yet melodic, lends the song an authenticity, making it an exemplar of what rock music in the '90s aspired to be—edgy but approachable.

Instrumentally, "Hepfidelity" showcases Diesel's guitar mastery. His riffs are intricate without being showy, and there's a certain soulfulness in his playing that's reminiscent of legends like Eric Clapton and B.B. King. The tracks are bolstered by a tight rhythm section, providing a solid foundation on which Diesel's guitar and vocals can truly shine.

One can't discuss "Hepfidelity" without mentioning its versatility. Diesel doesn't box himself into a single genre. Instead, he dabbles in rock, soul, and blues, creating an album that's thematically cohesive yet musically varied. This genre-blending ensures that "Hepfidelity" doesn't grow stale after multiple listens. Every track offers something fresh, ensuring that the listener remains engaged from start to finish.

Lyrically, Diesel strikes a balance between introspection and relatability. His songs touch on themes of love, loss, and longing, ensuring a universal appeal. While many albums from the same era leaned heavily into angst and rebellion, "Hepfidelity" stands out with its mature and reflective approach. Diesel's lyrics are poetic without being pretentious, a testament to his songwriting skills.

However, like any work of art, "Hepfidelity" isn't without its imperfections. Some might argue that certain tracks veer too close to the mainstream, lacking the innovative spark that defines truly great albums. But even in its more conventional moments, Diesel's unmistakab+B2237le voice and unparalleled guitar skills elevate the material.

In conclusion, Diesel's "Hepfidelity" is a testament to the rich tapestry of music in the early '90s. It captures the spirit of the era while also managing to feel timeless—a balancing act that's difficult to achieve. Diesel's powerful voice, combined with his guitar prowess and songwriting abilities, make "Hepfidelity" an essential listen for any fan of rock, soul, or blues. While it might have its occasional flaws, they're easily overshadowed by the album's strengths, ensuring that "Hepfidelity" remains a classic worth revisiting time and again.

What is the significance of the album title "Hepfidelity"?

The term "Hepfidelity" is a blend of the words "hep" (a slang term from the 1940s meaning "hip" or "trendy") and "fidelity" (meaning accuracy and faithfulness). Diesel seems to suggest a fusion of classic, timeless vibes with high-quality, authentic sound. The title encapsulates the album's homage to past musical styles while still sounding fresh and modern.

Which song from "Hepfidelity" garnered the most commercial success?

"Tip of My Tongue" is arguably the most commercially successful track from the album. It became an instant favorite on radio stations and solidified Diesel's position in the music industry. With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, the song resonated with a wide audience and remains one of Diesel's most recognizable tracks.

How did "Hepfidelity" rank in terms of album sales and charts?

"Hepfidelity" was a major success, both critically and commercially. It reached the number one spot on the Australian ARIA Albums Chart and earned Diesel an ARIA Music Award for Best Album in 1992. The album's popularity not only established Diesel as a formidable artist in Australia but also introduced him to international audiences.

What musical influences can be heard on the album?

"Hepfidelity" showcases a myriad of musical influences, from rock and blues to soul and funk. Diesel's guitar work on the album draws inspiration from legends like Eric Clapton and B.B. King, while the soulful undertones are reminiscent of artists like Sam Cooke and Otis Redding. The eclectic blend of styles gives the album its unique sound.

Did Diesel write all the songs on "Hepfidelity"?

Diesel is credited as the primary songwriter for all tracks on "Hepfidelity". His songwriting prowess shines throughout the album, with each track reflecting his personal experiences and observations. However, it's worth noting that collaboration is a crucial part of music-making, and Diesel likely worked with producers and other musicians to refine and polish the final tracks.