Starting out as an electric blues group in the '60s, Steamhammer transformed into a hard progressive rock group on this 1970 album. A highly collectable album in the British prog scene, the guitarists of this group -- Martin Pugh and Martin Quittenton -- were both, in fact, hardworking session musicians who made their names co-writing "Maggie May" with Rod Stewart for Stewart's debut solo album. Although throughout they maintain their electric blues roots, this album is a fairly awkward and mediocre transition period for the group. However, hardcore collectors of progressive rock will find much to delight in.
(allmusic.com/album/mountains-mw0000317789?1656962463463)
Their sound had morphed from the earlier blues boom sound to incorporate various Jazz influences, and this album is a bridge between their earlier style and a more progressive track they took on later releases. I have to say that it is only with repeated listenings that the true worth of this album emerges, but when it does it is a thing of great value. Mainly blues-based, it has some great instrumental passages, especially on the two live tracks recorded at The Lyceum in London which are very interesting indeed, concisely capturing the power and versatility of the band and with a great bass and guitar section that is especially gripping. It is an earthy sounding disc which played loud will rattle your speakers. In Martin Pugh, Steamhammer had a strong guitarist who could seriously play some sizzling leads.
(theprogressiveaspect.net/blog/2017/02/05/steamhammer-mountains/)