British rock outfit Rococo was one of those would have, could have, should have bands that slogged it out throughout the 70's but sadly emerged from that decade empty handed. Originally Formed in 1972 by a couple of journalists turned musicians, keyboardist Roy Shipston and guitarist Geoff Ward, the group was a fixture on the underground rock scene and was largely known for their ability to turn musical styles on a dime. While they managed to record a few singles and even shared bills with the likes of Thin Lizzy and Ten Years After, for some reason Rococo were never able to snag a record deal, that is until now. Thanks to the UK's premiere heritage label Angel Air Records the bands first ever collection of music entitled Run From The Wildfire is now available for serious music aficionados everywhere. Rounded out on this recording by vocalist Ian Raines, guitarist Rod Halling and the rhythm section of cousins Clive Edwards on drums and John "Rhino" Edwards on bass, Run From The Wildfire offers the listener a plethora of individual fireworks and dynamic musical arrangements. I have to say that I'd buy this record just for the first four songs, as the group quickly demonstrates their flair for delving into a variety of genres early on. The tailor made radio anthem "Hoodlum Fun" is a straight ahead, high octane rocker reminiscent of Sweet and Mott The Hoople that features an absolutely infectious chorus and some fine guitar work from Halling. From there they glide straight into the multifaceted theatrics of "The Hollywood Brats". Featuring Raines' charismatic vocal delivery, Shipston's sparking piano playing and Halling's fluid solos this song has all the dramatic panache of early Queen. By the third track "Quicksilver Mail" the group has brought the tempo down slightly and veered off into Beach Boys territory as this track is peppered with absolutely gorgeous vocal harmonies and some delicate acoustic guitar work. Likewise another laid back composition "Home Town Girls" proves to be another showcase for Raines who turns in a splendid lead vocal here. The highlights don't end there though as "Midsummer Hill", the colorful "Bellatrix" and "Street Boy" continue the