(Castle Music) ****

For more than a decade after the death of singer Johnny Kidd in a car crash, his backing band lay dormant.

Then, 16 years after Shakin' All Over hit number one, the Pirates roared back into action as one of the hottest live bands around.

The original power trio consisted of Frank "All By Myself" Farley on drums, Johnny Spence on bass and vocals and the magnificent and legendary Mick Green on guitar.

Dressed in pirate costumes, and with a giant skull and crossbones banner draped backstage, the Pirates were a sight to behold, and, as this two-disc set, recorded between 1976-8, proves a tonic for the lug-holes.

Green, thankfully over a health scare, is in demand as a session player. Here's why.