By the summer of 1961 the GQ were a lean sweaty machine pumping out hand clapping foot stomping teenage anthems in compact bursts of explosive energy. So it was perfectly understandable that the September release of their new long player was met by fans with muted surprise. Despite its aggressive title, Desperate & Relentless marked a distinct departure for the band. The album, while undoubtedly rock and roll, drew on country, folk and blues influences, injecting a strong strain of melancholic longing into a song cycle detailing the dissolution of a romantic relationship.

Clearly the group was maturing, both lyrically and musically, well beyond their years, and faster than anyone was prepared for.

It is now considered a standout of the band’s early LPs, and counted as a high point among critics, holding a special place in the hearts of many listeners.