Leslie West is probably best known for his work with Mountain. Mountain grew out of the session for Leslie’s debut solo album recorded in 1969. The album was produced by Felix Pappalardi who had more famously produced Cream. One of the first gigs Mountain ever played was at the celebrated Woodstock Festival in August 1969. From there the band recorded a number of influential and hugely successful albums. The band have gone through many ups and downs over the years including the death of Felix Pappalardi however they are still an incredibly popular draw and feature Leslie West alongside long time drummer Corky Laing.

As a solo artist Leslie West continued his career during breaks from Mountain in the mid seventies and despite working extensively with Mountain Leslie manages to also keep his solo career a going concern.

The Great Fatsby was Leslie’s solo album originally released in 1975 and was completed following another bout of activity from Mountain. The album includes a number of guest players including Spooky Tooth’s Gary Wright and Mick Jagger who plays guitar on the album rather than singing.

The album is an eclectic affair including as it does a number of covers including House Of The Rising Sun (Animals), A Little Bit Of Love(Free), Honky Tonk Women (Rolling Stones) and If I Were A Carpenter (Tim Hardin). The album also includes the song High Roller which is co written by Leslie West, Corky Laing and Keith Richard and Mick Jagger and also features Mick Jagger on guitar.

The album was always a popular album in the Leslie West canon and has been out of print for a short period prior to this reissue.