When one thinks of the early heavy metalists that influenced a whole genre of riveting rock that was yet to be come, the first band that typically comes to mind is Led Zeppelin. But certainly "Mountain," led by hulking guistarist Leslie West, has to garner more than just a passing nod from fans. Whereas Zeppelin's Jimmy Page boasted the same fused blues-rock stylings as West, West plucked with more voice and verve. Where Page was a speed-demon, flying fast and furious on every riff, West's licks were "chosen" and distinctly spoken. Indeed, Leslie West had that most rare gift among lead guitarists to say more with less, to express himself musically with fewer notes! In concert, Page, with his long flowing hair and egocentric daring-do, flew wildly about the stage as he fire-branded his audiences. Yet West, standing soundly planted upon the stage and as composed as a Mountain, shoved his unique sound right in his audiences' faces as well their ears. And each note was a symphony in itself! Not enough "credit due" has been accorded Mountain by rock historians; indeed, their legacy has been buried by the likes of Zeppelin and all the Neo-Prog. and Metal groups of today, such as "Liquid Tension Experiment." All of these bands have their warp-speed lead guitarists in common. Natch! But Mountain went "West," and gave the group its signature sound.