Tommy Bolin – Whips And Roses
SPV Records – May 22nd 2006
By Russell Garwood
This is part one of a double album released to honour Tommy Bolin’s memory, thirty years after his death. All the songs are alternate versions of tracks featured on his only two solo albums, Teaser & Private Eyes, or are previously unreleased. The music is classic rock – undeniably of its era, yet varied, with lots of strong jazz, blues and funk leanings. A solid, varied performance from the guitarist relies on memorable licks, funky rhythm, and accomplished solo work. The drums tend to be the most fusion-orientated instrument, with jumpy rhythms, and frequent fills. Prominent bass also displays jazz leanings, while he vocals, when featured, are well sung. The recording varies from track to track, but is generally of a high standard, especially considering its age.
Yet it is the history which makes this release so notable. As well as his solo work, Bolin was drafted in as a replacement for Ritchie Blackmore of Deep Purple, and performed on Come Taste The Band prior to his death. He is also known for his work with Zephyrand Energy. With such a start to his career, coupled with the quality of the material on offer here, it seems likely that - had his life not been cut off on December 3 1976 by a drug overdose at the age of 25 - he would have had a large impact on the rock scene of subsequent decades. Whips And Roses showcases an accomplished guitarist with a talent for song writing, as well as instrumental competence. For fans of ‘70s rock and other music of the era this will be a very welcome release. Those who weren’t even born when this was recorded are likely to find the music dated, yet there is still a lot to like.
6.5/10
UM’s Review Rating Scale
Official SPV website
SPV Records – May 22nd 2006
By Russell Garwood
This is part one of a double album released to honour Tommy Bolin’s memory, thirty years after his death. All the songs are alternate versions of tracks featured on his only two solo albums, Teaser & Private Eyes, or are previously unreleased. The music is classic rock – undeniably of its era, yet varied, with lots of strong jazz, blues and funk leanings. A solid, varied performance from the guitarist relies on memorable licks, funky rhythm, and accomplished solo work. The drums tend to be the most fusion-orientated instrument, with jumpy rhythms, and frequent fills. Prominent bass also displays jazz leanings, while he vocals, when featured, are well sung. The recording varies from track to track, but is generally of a high standard, especially considering its age.
Yet it is the history which makes this release so notable. As well as his solo work, Bolin was drafted in as a replacement for Ritchie Blackmore of Deep Purple, and performed on Come Taste The Band prior to his death. He is also known for his work with Zephyrand Energy. With such a start to his career, coupled with the quality of the material on offer here, it seems likely that - had his life not been cut off on December 3 1976 by a drug overdose at the age of 25 - he would have had a large impact on the rock scene of subsequent decades. Whips And Roses showcases an accomplished guitarist with a talent for song writing, as well as instrumental competence. For fans of ‘70s rock and other music of the era this will be a very welcome release. Those who weren’t even born when this was recorded are likely to find the music dated, yet there is still a lot to like.
6.5/10
UM’s Review Rating Scale
Official SPV website
