I would have rated this album 6 stars - to me it is one of the most important recent re-issues. At the same time, perhaps it is one of the most underrated albums. It is a mature hard'n neavy band from the 70s (it is often labelled "progressive", but it's as if we'll call Deep Purple "progressive").
The band was a short-lived and unlucky brainchild of Peter Spearing, amazing guitarist and composer. Before founding "Stonehouse" he toured Germany in 66-67, recorded few sigles for Deutsche Vogue, and even appeared on Bremen TV. After returning to UK, he released some singles on Decca and Columbia.

"Stonehouse" emerged in 1970 with James (Jimmy) Smith on vocals - powerful high-pitched voice, which goes almost hysterical on "Hobo" and screaming like lost soul on "Cheater"; and Ian Snow ("Snowy") on drums, while Terry Parker provided solid bass.
The band soon was offered a contract by RCA, and within only 3 (!) days in Advision Studios in London they've recorded "Stonehouse Creek 1971" named after a small locality in Plymouth, knowns as Tinkies and "Deadlake" - in the days of Queen Victoria.
I couldn't find any traces of RCA promoting the album, so I suspect that it was mistreated by the record industry in spite of its huge potential.


It is absolutely useless to compare the band with the others, but it is superb hard'n heavy, reminding somehow "Rare Bird" (first two LPs), early "Led Zeppelin" (without unnecessary lengthy solos) and "Deep Purple".Jimmy Smith is pretty close to the raving madness of Clark Hutchinson and Paul Rodgers of "Free" sounds rather low-key and tamed next to him. The musicianship of Peter Spearing must be heard to believe.
Most unfortunately the band split after releasing the album, James Smith and Ian Snow left to join "Asgard" (signed by Moody Blues' label Threshold).
(by  Golovanov Alexey/bordeldorock.blogspot.com)

James Smith - Vocals, Piano
Peter Spearing -  Guitar, Vocals
Terry Parker - Bass
Ian Snow - Drums