AMG Review of Asylum Choir II

Jim Worbois
All Music Guide

Of all Russell's early work as an artist, this record is perhaps the least essential; in particular, songs like "Tryin' to Stay Live" and "When You Wish Upon a Fag" feel dated. Nevertheless, Asylum Choir II is still a pretty nice record. Especially noteworthy is Russell's own version of "Hello, Little Friend"; Joe Cocker would later record the definitive version of the song. (The 1995 CD reissue features five bonus tracks).