Canadian band A FOOT IN COLDWATER is one of those classic bands from this country that lasted 4 albums before breaking up, never having that major breakthrough outside of the country (see Moxy, Teaze, …). But the band did have a number of hit singles here in the early 70s, and left an excellent collection of classic rock. Reviews of their albums drew comparisons to UK heavy acts Led Zeppelin and Uriah Heep. These guys were unlike Rush, April Wine, or Triumph, in sound or success, but their first few albums are highly recommended Canadian rock. Perhaps with a bigger label, FICW could’ve gone further, instead of breaking up in the late 70s. Their albums barely got released outside of Canada; only 1 album saw a UK and US release, and 2 were issued downunder. So, for those who I always suggest to check out this band, here is a list of 10 outstanding ‘Foot songs, with some background, below. If you’re a fan already, drop your favorite FICW songs in the comments.
A Foot In Coldwater: Alex Machin (vocals), Paul Naumann, Hughie Leggat (bass), Bob Horne (keyboards), Danny Taylor (drums)
(Make Me Do) Anything You Want
OK, so if you’ve heard anything of this band, it is likely this song, their first single. A ballad that was a top 40 hit in Canada in 1972 from their debut album. It would be redone for their 3rd album All Around Us, two years later and hit the charts again. It was covered nicely by fellow Canadian band Helix in 1984, and was a hit for them as well. The first album came in a yellow gatefold jacket, designed by Paul Weldon (of Edward Bear, who also designed many album covers in the ’70s). Reissued in 1977 in a single sleeve, with the band photo on the front.
In Heat
A heavier, progressive track that ends the band’s debut album, written by Paul Naumann. These guys weren’t into lengthy prog rockers, but this is close at over 6 minutes, highlighted by over 2 minutes of heavy guitar and Danny Taylor’s drumming . One song well worth revisiting repeatedly!
Yalla Yae
One of the band’s hardest rocking songs, written by Hughie Leggat. A classic heavy guitar and Hammond organ sound, that is as good as any similarly type rockers by Deep Purple or Uriah Heep. Originally on the band’s debut, and even better sounding on the album All Around Us. I’ve included the latter version here, which is a bit heavier, omitting the strings.
Coming Is Love / Mose Into E
The Second Foot In Coldwater opens with 2 and a half minutes of acoustic guitar before the riff to “Coming Is Love” comes in, joined by organ, and eventually the full band. It’s a bit darker sounding, heavy rocking track, highlighted by Paul Naumann’s guitar performance. Cool lead off to such a solid album.
(Isn’t Love Unkind) In My Life
The band’s second single, another hit, and a ballad. Written by Paul Naumann. Love the production of this. My favorite of the ‘Foot’s hit singles. From The Second Foot In Coldwater, as well as All Around Us. I wonder why this wasn’t as big as “(Make Me Do) Anything You Want”.
Love Is Coming
Another ballad, another hit single. This one also from the The Second Foot In Coldwater, and later All Around Us, written and sang by Hughie Leggatt. Again, very different from the band’s previous 2 hits, but so memorable.
He’s Always There (Watching You)
The band’s first 2 albums were released in Canada (with the debut getting issued in New Zealand and Australia), but with their third, All Around Us, ‘Foot was signed to Elektra Records for the US and UK. So, this album would include remakes of the hits from the first 2 albums, as well as half new songs. all credited to the band. Recorded in Toronto and London, England, along with British producer John Anthony, and (engineer) Mike Stone, so a push must’ve been on. “He’s Always There (Watching You)”, was one of the new songs, a somewhat dark and heavy rock song, which was issued as a B-side to another new cut, “I Know What You Need”.
Midnight Lady
One of 2 singles (non-LP) released after the 3rd album, and before Daffodil Records went under. “Midnight Lady” was another rocker, with the band sounding tighter than ever. This one driven by Leggat’s bass lines, and a Naumann’s opening riff. A shame this one didn’t lead to more like it.
Why
With a few years since the All Around Us album, A Foot In Coldwater, the band was forced to find a new record label, as well as carry on without keyboard player Bob Horne, who left the business and moved south. ‘Foot would sign with the newly formed Anthem Records, which (I guess) sounds good, since the label had Rush and Max Webster. Not exactly sure when Horne left, but he did play on this stand out track from 1977’s Breaking Through. Production credited to Paul Naumann & A Foot in Coldwater, who wrote or co-wrote almost every track on this album.
Play My Guitar
Also from the band’s last album. The best of the rock cuts on this album; with a memorable dark riff, and then the song bouncing back into the verses. Great lengthy solo from Naumann. This album is more of a grower IMO, some fine songs, but missing Horne’s organ sound throughout it. The title track was issued as the single instead of the 2 songs here, and I can’t imagine the album cover helped.
*For more on A FOOT IN COLDWATER check out:
Outsider Rock 