We all started listening to metal at some point and with something. For some it was black metal, for others thrash or death, but I think I won't be wrong to assume that for many longtime metalheads it was good old hard rock. But as years go by, much changes. Plunging into the depths of output from meat-processing plants with colorful signs reading CANNIBAL CORPSE, DEVOURMENT, DERANGED, DISGORGE, LIVIDITY, and so on, we forget where it all began -- we forget our roots. But all is not lost. For those who sometimes miss the past, here is a reason and an opportunity to plunge once again into the atmosphere of bygone days with the help of a retrospective compilation by the virtuoso guitarist who played in DEEP PURPLE in 1975-76 (Come Taste The Band).
First and foremost, it should be noted that this is not simply a compilation thrown together to make a quick buck, but a professionally prepared collection. All the material underwent thorough mastering, and with the exception of the last two tracks taken from unreleased, unknown studio recordings, it has very good sound quality -- which is unusual for discs of this kind, and is a pleasant surprise. The musical material is a blend of hard rock, funk, blues, and jazz rock, performed in TOMMY BOLIN's inimitable style. The first five compositions are taken from the solo album "Teaser," but here they are presented in different arrangements. You will also find a crazy 16-minute instrumental, Flyin' Fingers.
All in all, this disc should be of interest both to longtime fans of the guitarist and to connoisseurs of hard rock in general. Especially since the number 1 in the compilation's title suggests that a second volume will follow. And as the press release says, there will be even more surprises there. We're waiting.