Founded in 1970, the London-based heavy progressive band Patto created a magnificent collection of songs comprising catchy rock riffs, unusual changes of metre, outstanding guitar work, rousing vocals and a spirit of experimentation. For one reason or another, however, they were denied the recognition that many felt they deserved. This applies not only to their first self-titled LP, but also to this second album Hold Your Fire. The recording sessions were made at London’s Island Studios, once again with Brian Humphries as sound engineer and Muff Winwood as producer, who this time invested more time in overdubs and sound quality.

It was released in December 1971 and centred entirely on Mike Patto’s rough vocals and the virtuoso guitarist Ollie Halsall, who also shines as a keyboardist and vibraphone player. Despite the debut album’s modest sales figures, the record company spared no expense on the cover design. Original copies of the British Vertigo pressing were released with an extremely elaborate Gimmix cover designed by Roger Dean. Although they had created a truly comprehensive work of art and remained in demand as a live act, their follow-up LP went completely unnoticed and the band were dropped by the Vertigo label. Exorbitant prices are now being paid for this masterpiece, which is sought after worldwide.