Everyone had a lot to do with the move to less orthodox blues before Bob came in. Jeremy with the classic rock, Peter with his non-blues interests and Danny with a jazzier style (he often cited Django Rheinhardt as an inspiration). Bob did take things further though, but his biggest contribution might have been fighting for their name from a U.S. base. The albums he was on are all essential for any modern music fan. I first heard his music when Hypnotized was on fm in this area a lot , followed by the second version of Sentimental Lady and Ebony Eyes all over the am dial. Later I enjoyed the heck out of his look at bop. Good times!
It's often the British way to simply sidestep and ignore, even to silence, and the U.S. way to be in your face. Bob really should be in the hall of fame as an individual in my opinion if nothing else. My hall is rather different to the official version mind you.
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