Album Information:
Album ID: 10401
About Tommy Bolin:
Thomas Richard Bolin, also known as Tommy Bolin, was an American guitarist, musician, and songwriter. He was born on August 1, 1951, in Sioux City, Iowa, and passed away on December 4, 1976, in Miami, Florida, at the young age of 25.
Bolin was raised in a musical family, his father was a prominent figure on the Iowa music scene. He began playing the piano at a young age, but transitioned to playing guitar during his teenage years. Bolin's distinctive style drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including jazz, rock, and blues.
Bolin’s musical career started in the early 1970s when he joined the Colorado-based band Zephyr. He was only 17 at the time but quickly impressed the band with his playing and songwriting skills. Together they released their third album titled 'Sunset Ride' which showcased Bolin's guitar virtuosity.
After Zephyr disbanded, Bolin played in several other bands such as Energy, The James Gang, and has also contributed on various recordings by other artists like Billy Cobham, Alphonse Mouzon, and Columbia Records jazz-rock band, The New York City Band.
In 1975, Bolin was recruited by Deep Purple to replace guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. This was a significant milestone in his career, and he participated in the creation and recording of the album 'Come Taste the Band,' which showcased Bolin's diverse musical influences.
Bolin left Deep Purple in 1976 to pursue a solo career. He released two solo albums, 'Teaser' and 'Private Eyes,' which gained critical acclaim for their innovative and unique sound. Unfortunately, Bolin's solo career was cut short due to his death, just as he was about to embark on his first major tour as a solo artist.
Bolin's musical legacy lives on, as he was a groundbreaking artist who made significant contributions to the worlds of rock, jazz, and fusion. His unique style of playing, characterized by his experimental techniques, innovative chord progressions, and intricate solos, continues to inspire and influence musicians today. Bolin's music may have ended prematurely, but his influence on the world of music remains significant to this day.
About the album Private Eyes:
Private Eyes is the second and final album by American guitarist and songwriter Tommy Bolin, released in 1976. The album showcases Bolin's diverse musical influence, ranging from hard rock and funk to jazz fusion and reggae.
The album opens with the title track 'Bustin' Out For Rosey,' a high-energy, guitar-driven rock track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Bolin's guitar work is particularly notable on this track, showcasing his proficiency at both rhythm and lead guitar.
'Sweet Burgundy' follows with a groovy, funk-inspired bassline that drives the song forward. Bolin's vocals take center stage on this track, showcasing his soulful singing style.
Next up is 'Post Toastee,' a fan favorite and one of Bolin's most well-known songs. It begins with a dreamy, atmospheric guitar intro before launching into a hard-hitting rock riff. The song features a catchy chorus and some of Bolin's most impressive guitar work, including a blistering solo toward the end.
The album's fourth track, 'Shake the Devil,' is a hard rock track with bluesy undertones. Bolin's guitar work takes center stage once again, particularly on the track's heavy riff and solo section.
The album takes a turn with 'Gypsy Soul,' a mellow, reggae-inspired track with a laid-back groove. Bolin's vocals are particularly notable on this track, showcasing his ability to tailor his singing style to fit different genres.
'Someday We'll Bring Our Love Home' follows with a more traditional rock sound, featuring a driving beat and catchy guitar riff. The song's chorus is particularly memorable, with Bolin's vocals soaring over the instrumental backing.
The album's longest track, 'Hello, Again,' is also one of its most complex. Clocking in at over seven minutes, the song features a number of different sections, showcasing Bolin's interest in jazz fusion. The track begins with a mellow, jazz-influenced guitar intro before launching into a harder guitar riff. Bolin's guitar work is particularly impressive on this track, with a number of extended solos throughout.
The album closes with 'You Told Me That You Loved Me,' a slow, ballad-esque track that allows Bolin's voice to take center stage once again. The song builds to a dramatic climax, with Bolin's guitar work providing a powerful backdrop to the emotional lyrics.
Overall, Private Eyes is a diverse and impressive album that showcases Tommy Bolin's incredible talent as both a guitarist and songwriter. It's a must-listen for any fans of '70s rock, funk, jazz, or reggae.
Members:
Tommy Bolin was a solo artist as well as a member of various bands, so here are the key members of some of those bands along with their biographies:
1. Tommy Bolin (guitar, vocals) - Tommy Bolin was born on August 1, 1951, in Sioux City, Iowa and started playing guitar at a very young age. He became a member of numerous bands such as Zephyr, The James Gang, Deep Purple, and The Tommy Bolin Band. Tommy Bolin is widely considered to be one of the most talented guitarists of his generation, and his style ranged from rock to jazz to blues and beyond.
2. Jeff Cook (keyboards) - Jeff Cook was a member of the Tommy Bolin Band, playing keyboards. There is not a lot of information available about Jeff Cook's life or career.
3. Johnnie Bolin (drums) - Johnnie Bolin is Tommy Bolin's brother, and he was a member of the Tommy Bolin Band, playing drums. He has played with numerous other bands over the years as well.
4. Stanley Sheldon (bass) - Stanley Sheldon was a member of the Tommy Bolin Band, playing bass guitar. Sheldon has also played with numerous other bands, including Peter Frampton, Warren Zevon, and the Michael Schenker Group.
5. Bobby Berge (drums) - Bobby Berge was a member of the Tommy Bolin Band, playing drums. He also played with numerous other bands over the years, including the Buddy Miles Express and the Steve Stills Band.
6. Jimmy Haslip (bass) - Jimmy Haslip played bass for Tommy Bolin on his album 'Private Eyes.' He later became a founding member of the jazz fusion band The Yellowjackets and is considered one of the top bassists in the genre.
7. Jan Hammer (keyboards) - Jan Hammer played keyboards for Tommy Bolin on his album 'Teaser.' Hammer is a Czech-born musician who has had a prolific career in both jazz and rock music. He is perhaps best known for his work on the Miami Vice television series, where he composed the famous theme song.
Track List for Private Eyes:
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Discography for Tommy Bolin:
1. The James Gang - Bang! (1973)
2. Billy Cobham - Spectrum (1973)
3. Energy (Tommy Bolin album) (1972)
4. Teaser (Tommy Bolin album) (1975)
5. Tommy Bolin Band - Live at Ebbets Field 1974 (1997)
6. Tommy Bolin Band - Energy Radio Broadcast (2007)
7. Tommy Bolin Band - First Time Live! (2017)
8. Tommy Bolin - Whips and Roses (2006)
9. Tommy Bolin - Whirlwind (2013)
Singles:
1. 'Savannah Woman' (1972)
2. 'Teaser' (1975)
3. 'Post Toastee' (1975)
4. 'Shake the Devil' (1976)
Note: This is a complete discography of all Tommy Bolin albums, singles, and other releases.