|
|
|
|
|
|
TOMMY BOLIN
"Shake The Devil - The Lost
Sessions"
(Cleopatra Records; 2021)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
"Shake the Devil" is a compilation of demos and outtakes
from the recording sessions of Tommy Bolin's "Private Eyes" recording from 1976.
Like most compilations of its type, "Shake the Devil" doesn't always feature the
best quality recordings. The tracks hiss and warble and were obviously never
intended to be released as a finished studio album. But the interesting thing
here is that the songwriting and musicianship throughout is amazing and,
strangely enough, that rough, unfinished sound works for the style of music
involved.
Bolin was a hugely respected guitarist whose work with
Deep Purple and The James Gang was well-respected and idolized even after his
death from a heroin overdose. "Shake the Devil" is another opportunity to enjoy
the man’s magic and is as interesting for its historical value as well as its
quality content.
Most interesting is the pair of demos for “Gypsy Soul,”
one acoustic and one rehearsal. These two tracks give the listener real insight
to how songs are created and evolve.
For more information, check out www.tommybolin.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2021 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
