The Tower Of Power!

1. Montmartre

2. Rainbow People

3. Stanley the Steamer

4. Those Were the Days

The Tower Of Power!,Dexter Gordon,Ojc,Bop,Hard Bop,Jazz,Pop

Jazz

Music

jazz

music

Average customer rating: The best of the best! Not so faulty Tower You want to know the truth in life... I would give it 6 stars if I could Tower of Power: Live they are far better

The Very Best of Tower of Power: The Warner Years Tower of Power Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Party Boys | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music Similar Items: Pickin' Up the Pieces: The Best of Average White Band (1974-1980) What Is Hip?: The Tower of Power Anthology Tower of Power Back to Oakland Earth Wind & Fire: Greatest Hits ASIN: B00005LMXQ Release Date: 2001-07-17

Tracks:

1. You Got To Funkifize
2. What Happened To The World That Day?
3. Down To The Nightclub
4. You're Still A Young Man
5. What Is Hip?
6. So Very Hard To Go
7. This Time Is Real
8. Will I Ever Find A Love?
9. Soul Vaccination
10. Time Will Tell
11. Below Us, All The City Lights
12. Don't Change Horses (In The Middle Of A Stream)
13. Willing To Learn
14. Only So Much Oil In The Ground
15. I Won't Leave Unless You Want Me To
16. You're So Wonderful, So Marvelous

Customer Reviews:

The best of the best!.......2007-07-09

This 2001 Tower of Power anthology spans the period between 1972 and 1976, during which they were signed to Warner Records. The albums represented include 1972's Bump City, 1973's Tower of Power, 1974's Back to Oakland, and 1975's In the Slot and Urban Renewal. These albums are widely considered the best TOP ever recorded, and this collection is a well-selected compilation of the best of these fine albums. During this period, Oakland's Tower of Power set themselves apart from the budding west coast music scene with their brand of soulful funk (or funky soul, whichever you prefer). Most famous was their incredibly tight horn section, which had as many as six players and full instrumentation. Besides being a vastly talented section, these players play so well together and their chemistry makes them a joy to listen to. The rhythm and percussion section is also very talented, so musically Tower of Power is just awesome on this disc. During this period, Tower of Power had two lead vocalists. On the earlier albums, the competent Rick Stevens was the singer, before being replaced by the wonderful Lenny Williams in 1973. Williams is very entertaining. Besides being a really gifted vocalist, he is so much fun because of his yelling and performance, you can tell he's having fun too. His voice has great range and versatility, and he brings a lot of soul and even gospel influence to the group. The tracklist is very well selected, and it is done in chronological order, so you can watch the band's progression. There's a nice balance of pure upbeat funk tracks and their signature slow jams. Tower of Power songs are all so well written and produced, and this record is a perfect example. I highly recommend "The Very Best of Tower of Power: The Warner Years" to all.

The compilation kicks off with a bang, the blasting "You Got to Funkafize," showcasing the awesomely powerful horn section. "What Happened to the World That Day?" is a heartfelt love song, Rick Stevens' influence is pretty clear on these earlier tracks. "Down to the Nightclub" was their first big hit, a swinging party song. "You're Still a Young Man" is another solid early-70s slow jam. "What Is Hip?" is their best known song, musically incredible, with a gorgeous arrangement for the funk guitar and horns. Lenny Williams also lends one of his finest performances ever on this song. "So Very Hard to Go" is among my favorites, an inspired love song, and "This Time It's Real" is also very appealing, a happy and hopeful ode. The slow "Will I Ever Find a Love?" precedes the awesome "Soul Vaccination," a fast and funky cut from the same mold as "What Is Hip?," but maybe even better. "Time Will Tell" and "Below Us All the City Lights" are both fine examples of TOP's range and versatility, and "Don't Change Horses (In the Middle of a Stream)" is a pumped up, swinging number. The slow, well-produced songs "Willing to Learn" and "I Won't Leave Unless You Want Me To" are split by the unforgettable "Only So Much Oil in the Ground," with the soaring horn cadence and Williams' wild vocals. The collection closes with the inspired "You're So Wonderful, So Marvelous."

One thing I love about Tower of Power's 1970s discography is that unlike so much music from that era, it really doesn't sound dated at all even today. Their music is so unique, well-produced, and exhibiting talent that the sound is timeless. For anyone who's a new listener or was a fan back in the day, "The Very Best of Tower of Power: The Warner Years" is a must have in the collection.

Not so faulty Tower.......2007-01-09

A bit dated, but I'm such a screaming fan I'd take recordings from when they were all in diapers!

You want to know the truth in life..........2006-06-24

...don't pass Tower of Power by. This band is smokin.' They have it all, great vocals, great compositions, great horns and arrangements. I would have loved to see Man From The Past on this one, but overall a very solid collection. So Very Hard To Go is top notch material - one of my all time favorites and they have so many great tunes - Below Us All The City Lights, Down To The Nightclub, What Is Hip, This Times It's Real, Only So Much Oil. Easily one of the best bands from the 70's. Got to have this one!

I would give it 6 stars if I could .......2005-11-02

This band is one of the greatest bands of all-time, and most people don't even know it. Their Top Ten songs are:
1. "What is Hip?"
2. "Down to the Night Club."
3. "Soul Vaccination".
4. "Only so much Oil in the Ground".
5. "Your still a Young Man".
6. "Diggin' on James Brown".
7. "Clever Girl".
8. "Attitude Dance".
9. "Oakland Zone".
10. "Page One".

Tower of Power: Live they are far better.......2005-06-26

Hallo Folks. I went to two concerts of TOP in the previous years in Holland, One time outdoor for the North Sea Jazz Fetival in The Hague and one time In Paradiso, in Amsterdam. I like TOP live far better than their album recordings. So for me the best CD is TOP live. This contains all their best hits, which are played more free, open and are recorder with much more base and a clearer sound. If you are a new fan, or a a huge fan, I would recommend the Live CD.

Average customer rating: Stewy in Music City Tower of Power Self Titled CD This Time Is Real See them Live! Funk that's as hot and danceable as it gets

Tower of Power Tower of Power Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Back to Oakland Bump City Urban Renewal East Bay Grease Live and in Living Color ASIN: B000002KEJ Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. What Is Hip?
2. Clever Girl
3. This Time It's Real
4. Will I Ever Find A Love?
5. Get Yo' Feet Back On The Ground
6. So Very Hard To Go
7. Soul Vaccination
8. Both Sorry Over Nothin'
9. Clean Slate
10. Just Another Day

Customer Reviews:

Stewy in Music City.......2007-07-12

This is truly one of the best albums of the early 70's. I am a big fan of CHICAGO but this collection and "Bump City" should have blown them right off the charts. The fabulous horn section played on many other artist's records, but listen to "What is Hip?" and hear them in their own element knock it out of the park! These guys are the real deal.

Tower of Power Self Titled CD.......2006-07-05

Although this is not a current selection (which actually was origianlly recorded back in 1973), Tower of Power will remain one of funk/R&B's premier bands which used a massive horn section to highlight their work.

On this CD, the noteworthy "What is Hip?" stands out as their rocking, syncopated, break-induced tunes. AOR lit into this one, as well as the soulful "So Very Hard To Go." Both these individual tunes are worth the price of the CD, but it doesn't stop there.

AOR never quite latched onto "Soul Vaccination" but that doesn't detract from the signature sound of ToP. The horn section is what drove ToP, and to this day I cannot think of another band that accomplished what ToP was able to do, when it was able to do it.

Tower of Power still receives airplay, but on a much smaller scale, considering this style of music is now considered as what ToP said in their song "What is Hip?": "What you think might really be passe'."

It is unfortunate that ToP is not still riding the airwaves in it's former glory, but since times and tastes have changed with the generations, we can only hope that ToP will remain an icon to older boomers who remember hard-driving funk and R&B.

This Time Is Real.......2006-05-09

If I may make up a word, then, this is FUNKTIFICATION TO THE HIGHEST LEVEL!!!! While listening to "Clever Girl" on an online radio station, I fell in love with the song. The vocalist was clear, the horns rocked (I am a Trumpet player, so, the screaming Trumpets grabbed my attention!!). I did some research and found out the group was the same group to release "You're Still A Young Man", just with a new singer, Lenny Williams. I found this CD and haven't stopped playing it!!! I would recommend this CD to ANYONE!!! Oh, and you will love Tower Of Power's trademark, THAT MONSTER HORN SECTION!!!!! Just listen to "Soul Vaccination" and you will do as Lenny Williams suggest. Get in line to get yours because I got mine!!

See them Live!.......2005-11-26

I won't regurgitate what is written already, this is just a kick-a** album!

I really want to add they still tour, usually jazz clubs, and are a not-to-be-missed act. If you ain't moving when "the Tower" is groovin' -- you dead.

Funk that's as hot and danceable as it gets.......2005-08-04

This is one helluva band. And really greased on this early 70s gem. Go get it. It's wonderful.

Average customer rating: This is Hip!!! The Bay Area Sound If you've got the notion, Tower's got the potion... Sophisticated Funk More Soul Than You Can Control

What Is Hip?: The Tower of Power Anthology Tower of Power Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Quiet Storm | R&B | Styles | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Very Best of Tower of Power: The Warner Years Soul Vaccination: Live Back to Oakland Tower of Power Live and in Living Color ASIN: B00000JZAD Release Date: 1999-09-14

Tracks:

1. Knock Yourself Out
2. Back On The Streets Again
3. Sparkling In The Sand
4. Down To The Nighclub
5. You're Still A Young Man
6. You Got To Funkifize
7. What Happened To The World That Day?
8. What Is Hip?
9. Will I Ever Find A Love?
10. This Time It's Real
11. So Very Hard To Go
12. Soul Vaccination
13. Below Us, All The City Lights
14. Can't You See (You Doin' Me Wrong)
15. Squib Cakes

Tracks:

1. Oakland Stroke (Unedited Single Version)
2. Don't Change Horses (In The Middle Of A Stream)
3. Time Will Tell
4. It's Not The Crime
5. I Won't Leave Unless You Want Me To
6. Only So Much Oil In The Ground
7. Willing To Learn
8. You're So Wonderful, So Marvelous
9. Just Enough And Too Much
10. As Surely As I Stand Here
11. Stroke '75
12. The Soul Of A Child
13. You Ought To Be Havin' Fun
14. Simple As That
15. Credit
16. A Little Knowledge (Is A Dangerous Thing)
17. I Like Your Style
18. Soul With A Capital 'S'
19. Souled Out
20. So I Got To Groove

Amazon.com

Tower of Power blew--literally--out of the Bay Area's early-'70s scene at a time when hip black and white tastes were further diverging. The horn-heavy ensemble managed to find an audience of album buyers on both the soul and rock sides of the divide, though. The first disc of this chronological two-CD retrospective of tracks made between 1970 and 1997 holds most of the highlights--notably the wise, intensely grooving title track, which has only gained cachet in the quarter-century since its release, and "So Very Hard to Go," one of the classiest pop-soul singles this side of the Spinners. More a bunch of well-schooled musicians than truly inspired songwriters, Tower of Power often sounded better than its material and rarely if ever touched the magic of those cuts again. What Is Hip?'s second half shows the act's fuel running low even before it relaunched as a '90s lite-funk answer to hometown pals Huey Lewis and the News. --Rickey Wright

Customer Reviews:

This is Hip!!!.......2007-03-09

If you like to tickle your "FUNK BONE".This is the collection to have!

The Bay Area Sound.......2007-02-13

I was raised in the Bay Area California and Tower of Power was the real stuff. This CD is unmatched in quality and choosen tracks.

If you've got the notion, Tower's got the potion..........2006-09-28

You will be literally blown away after a heaping helping of this masterfully assembled anthology. The best horn section in the land (no doubt influenced greatly by The JB's horns), this is raw, unadulterated Oaktown funk at its' finest. Take particular note at when the great Chester Thompson joins the group and rides those bass pedals to death!
This is a fine set, and while one could split hairs about omissions (or even inclusions toward the end of Disc Two), it serves as an outstanding testament to one of the most under-appreciated soul bands on Earth! Get it and turn it up loud!!!

Sophisticated Funk.......2006-04-19

This was my introduction to T.O.P. and it gradually became a collection of undiscovered classics for me personally. This brand of big & intricate funk really grows on you. If you haven't bought a copy yet, go ahead and "Knock Yourself Out."

More Soul Than You Can Control.......2005-11-15

A real treasure. T of P is a frequently overlooked band that has been keeping the funk alive for decades. Their horn section is legendary, the arrangements are just too tight, and all the big hits you want are here. Worth it for Back On the Streets Again, Squib Cakes, and Souled Out alone. Bring this 2-CD set to a party and watch your friends start dancing on the ceiling. A real value.

Average customer rating: East Bay... All The Way Excellent Groove, Never Gets Old, Squib Cakes Highlight ONE WORD: AWESOME!!! SQUIB CAKES! ...like a bowlegged monkey

Back to Oakland Tower of Power Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Tower of Power Urban Renewal Bump City East Bay Grease In the Slot ASIN: B000002KF2 Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Oakland Stroke...
2. Don't Change Horses (In The Middle Of A Stream)
3. Just When We Start Makin' It
4. Can't You See (You Doin' Me Wrong)
5. Squib Cakes
6. Time Will Tell
7. Man From The Past
8. Love's Been Gone So Long
9. I Got The Chop
10. Below Us, All The City Lights
11. ...Oakland Stroke

Amazon.com

Formed out of various Oakland-based bands in the early '70s, Tower of Power was the West Coast answer to the various rock horn bands popular during that period. But where their rivals relied on catchy horn charts and bland lyrics (Chicago instantly comes to mind), Tower of Power was funkier, grittier, and a lot greasier than any of their contemporaries. Back to Oakland isn't one of their strongest albums. After two promising openers, "Oakland Stroke" and "Don't Change Horses in the Middle of the Stream," the set slips into more shapeless jams and is hobbled by the band's tendency toward mundane lyrics. Fans can savor the strong horn section work throughout, but this isn't the logical starting point for newcomers to TOP--a better bet is their second album, East Bay Grease. --Tom Vickers

Customer Reviews:

East Bay... All The Way.......2007-01-02

What can I tell you about some of my homeboys... from the Bay. You gotta be ready for variety when you listen to ToP, because normal and ordinary is not them. They mix rock with soul with jazz with anything and everything else that sounds good. One of my favorites.

Excellent Groove, Never Gets Old, Squib Cakes Highlight.......2005-04-28

Several tunes on 'Back to Oakland' feature Tower of Power at their best. One in particular that keeps me coming back is the deeply funky instrumental track, 'Squib Cakes'.

Featured soloists include a short, mellow guitar solo from Bruce Conte, followed by Greg Adams' fluegelhorn that first lurks in the pedal range (leading one to believe it's a trombone!) and then soars brilliantly higher and higher to a dramatic finish.

Tenor madness abounds from lead saxman Lenny Pickett (known primarily for his work as lead Tenor for the Saturday Night Live band), wailing in-tune in the difficult altissimo range (jazz musicians call these 'freak notes' because they are not notes typically included in the range of the instrument ... ), while at the same time refusing to compromise on excellent rhythmic and melodic ideas throughout.

Chester Thompson completes the soloistic foursome with a chunky Hammond organ solo that takes you back to a smoky bar in LA in the early 70s - without the probability of cancer. Lyrical yet hard-driving, Thompson lulls us first into his solo space by filling in behind the band as they chant 'Squib Cakes', then takes off on his own flight, delving out perfect 16th-note runs as though Bach suddenly had learned some jazz Hammond himself. In the middle of the solo, as if to a testament to the tightness of the groove, Thompson lingers on a treble note in his right hand, chunks out chords so symmetrically with the rest of the rhythm section with his left, that in the days of hearing this on vinyl, I wondered if my record was skipping through that section!

To finish the groove, at the end of Thompson's solo, the horns return to fill in a bridge with quick triplets. After he closes, we're back to the head to close out the tune.

Even with so much to savor, this syncopated gem will leave you hungering for more, even after the final stroke of the last chord. The musicianship and tightness of their groove more than make up for the bland lyrics on the album's other tunes. I have listened to this album for 30 years and revel in its freshness every time I spin it. I recommend it as a definite primer for anyone wishing to explore Tower of Power's "sound."

- Kathryn Shut

ONE WORD: AWESOME!!!.......2004-08-13

I should have written this a long time ago. This album (CD) changed the way I looked at music, at groups, at the meaning of life . . . well, maybe not that drastically. But this album started a huge love affair between me and the Tower of Power. I'd never heard anything even approaching their level of musicianship, professionalism or tightness as a horn-based group. I'd heard a ton of groups up to this point in time: Blood, Sweat & Tears, Chicago and that group that made VEHICLE being the most prominent. Even Buddy Miles on his BUDDY MILES LIVE album (OOP) had a tremendous horn section But none of them highlighted the horn sections consistently. None of them could come close to this group of musical prodigies.

Every cut was a joy to listen to. Even the split-up version of OAKLAND STROKE was just a fun jam. My impressions of the group: Aside from Jimmy Smith, I hadn't heard a Hammond B3 sound so funky till I heard Chester Thompson. Aside from Jr. Walker, I hadn't experienced anyone who had such masterful control of their altissimo range till I heard Lenny Pickett. The supporting horns (Kupka, Castillo, Adams and Gillette) had their own vibe and despite a lack of solo time, managed to make a significant impact on every song. And for bass work, nobody was touching Rocco Prestia. In his true prime, Rocco's style was totally individual. David Garibaldi was what I considered a phenomenal drummer. All his rhythms were crisp and unique . . . playing off the sycopation of the bass, organ and guitar. He had a serious ear for rhythms. Bruce Conte was one of the most underrated of the crew, but his guitar work was ahead of its time. There were traces of jazz and some island influences that I hear very plainly.

Lenny Williams' vocals really set a definitive tone for this group. They were distinctive, fluid and heartfelt. His voice made the puzzle complete; put the icing on the cake; lit the cigarette after some mind-blowing sex.

My favorite selections: Without a doubt, JUST WHEN WE START MAKIN' IT ranks as one of my all-time favorite tunes. It exemplifies what the group is all about. It's jazzy, it's laid back, but it drives relentlessly, fills you with emotional fire and thrills your music sense to its fullest. Lenny's vocals are soaring and urging, Pickett's sax solos are powerful and sensual, the staccato background horns are poignant and dynamic, the organ break not only resets tempo, but turns into a thing of genius. CT creating a series of rippling, bubbling organ lines against the crescendo of the entire horn contingent and the incomparable Garibaldi drums - cymbals crashing, bass tom rolling, the incredible beat he lays down was too innovative. I was overwhelmed the first time I heard this. I must have worn out the vinyl from overplaying it. Actually, I have owned this album/CD around 12 times since 1973, from having to repurchase it after having it stolen or borrowed out indefinitely.

Other favorites: TIME WILL TELL, CAN'T YOU SEE, CITY LIGHTS. And no instrumental rocked my soul for a long time like SQUIB CAKES. Chester wrote a lot of songs in some other albums, but they all sounded like mutated versions of SQUIB CAKES . . . like distant cousins or wannabe next door neighbors.

In all, I really love this album. It's been part of my life for over 30 years. And it just sounds better everytime I put it on.

SQUIB CAKES!.......2004-07-24

Squib Cakes is such an awesome song. "Dont Change Horses (in the Middle of a Stream)" is great too. This is an awesome CD. GET IT

...like a bowlegged monkey.......2003-10-17

Of all the Tower of Power albums (yes albums) and CDs I own, this has to be the best of the bunch. You have the band at a great point in their history with one of the premier lineups. The stand out song for me on the album is "Can't You See", a great song, especially live. Other good tunes include "Man from the Past" and "City Lights", which I would suggest while spending some time up at Coit Tower in San Francisco. If you were to get one TOP CD, I would say to get this one.

Average customer rating: Live Tower in the 90s A Funkin' Institution Great music!! Simply put, THE 2ND GREATEST LIVE ALBUM EVER! Vocals could be better

Soul Vaccination: Live Tower of Power Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Quiet Storm | R&B | Styles | Music Soul | Live Albums | R&B | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | R&B | Styles | Music Similar Items: Live and in Living Color What Is Hip?: The Tower of Power Anthology Back to Oakland Tower of Power In Concert (Ohne Filter) Urban Renewal ASIN: B00000JQFW Release Date: 1999-08-03

Tracks:

1. Soul With A Capital 'S'
2. I Like Your Style
3. Soul Vaccination
4. Down To The Night Club (Bump City)
5. Willin' To Learn
6. Souled Out
7. Diggin' On James Brown
8. To Say The Least You're The Most
9. You Strike My Main Nerve
10. Can't You See (You Doin' Me Wrong)
11. You Got To Funkifize
12. So Very Hard To Go
13. What Is Hip
14. You're Still A Young Man
15. So I Got To Groove

Customer Reviews:

Live Tower in the 90s.......2007-06-10

I've been a Tower of Power die hard fan since the late 60s, before they even recorded. This CD doesn't dissapoint as Tower was always much better live than on records although they have made some fine recordings. The lead singer on this outing ranks up there with Rick Stevens and Lenny Wiliams......Tower definetly has the Oakland Stroke on this disc, excuse me but it's time to get down at the night club because after all, I'm still a young man.

A Funkin' Institution.......2007-03-19

TOP is in top form in this impeccable live performance. Recorded soon after David Garibaldi's return to the band you get to hear and feel how much imoact this phenomenal drummer has on the band and funk drumming in general. All the classics are here - What Is Hip, Soul Vaccination, Willin' to Learn, as well as some newer tunes. All are performed with what seems to be some new found inspiration (probably initiated by Garibaldi's contribution). Emilio, Rocco, David, Doc , and the rest of these stellar musicians are on fire and remain the most underappreciated institution of R&B. BUY THIS CD - NOW!!!!!

Great music!!.......2005-08-03

I'm a guitar based rocker, and I love this stuff!! Check out a couple of music downloads if you need to before you buy, but at least take a listen!!

Simply put, THE 2ND GREATEST LIVE ALBUM EVER!.......2005-06-03

I've been a fan of these guys since Huey Lewis got the horn section to play on two of his late 80's albums. I only got into them as a group afterwards in college. Most of the reviews I have seen about this album have been spot on in my humble opinion. I would just like to add that while its great to have live versions of new songs (Soul With A Capital "S", Diggin' On James Brown, So I Got To Groove) and old songs (Soul Vaccination, So Very Hard To Go, Can't You See..., etc.) this collection PALES in comparison to Tower's original live album, LIVE AND IN LIVING COLOR. I encourage everyone to pick that cd along with this one. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

Vocals could be better.......2004-07-27

I saw TOP in April with Larry Braggs as lead vocalist. He has a much stronger voice than Brent Carter does on this CD. Nonotheless, this CD is almost as good as being there.

Average customer rating: Raw, Extra-Greasy Funk from Oakland CA! Don't Play This One For Your Parents....Yipes! Pure unrefined FUNK! You Will Knock Yourself Out! TOP RULES

East Bay Grease Tower of Power Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bump City Back to Oakland Tower of Power Urban Renewal In the Slot ASIN: B0000032XU Release Date: 1992-11-10

Tracks:

1. Knock Yourself Out
2. Social Lubrication
3. The Price
4. Back On The Streets Again
5. The Skunk, The Goose, And The Fly
6. Sparkling In The Sand

Customer Reviews:

Raw, Extra-Greasy Funk from Oakland CA!.......2006-09-20

It's hard to imagine more opposite places in such close proximity than San Francisco and Oakland, especially during the late 1960s/ early 1970s. Witness the contrast between the Summer of Love and Golden Gate Park be-ins versus unemployment and crumbling World War II-era shipyards; grooviness versus gritty urban reality. Also witness the pronounced distinction between the bands of the era: acid-tinged free-form jamming (Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane) versus the working-class howl of the east bay's Creedence Clearwater Revival and the inimitable funk band Tower of Power.
"East Bay Grease" blasts out of the Oakland flats with an edge and intensity that no hippie band could ever have hoped to match. Driven by a tight rhythm section, raw lead vocals (by Rufus Miller, the first of a succession of singers whom, in Spinal Tap fashion, kept getting waylaid by stints in jail, etc.) and of course that signature horn-section, "East Bay Grease" not only sets the prototype for the string of hit albums and singles that was to follow, but also has its own completely original, unrefined but virtuosic sound that, I believe, sets it at the top of TOP's discography.
Highlight tracks include "Knock Yourself Out," "The Price" and "Back On The Streets Again," which topically could have been recorded in the present era (certain parts of Oakland not having changed much since the day). Unlike other reviewers, I also like "Sparkling In The Sand," which may not seem to fit in at first glance but actually sets the template for their later classic ballads (i.e., "You're Still A Young Man").
And of course, there is only one Steve "The Funky Doctor" Kupka, whose gifts to the baritone sax are immeasurable.

Don't Play This One For Your Parents....Yipes!.......2006-08-13

Most music listeners know about the hit-making years of this legendary band, with whom I gradually developed some personal connections during their heyday. But not everyone has heard this - their very first commercial release - where it all began. Produced by David Rubinson and released in 1970 on music impresario Bill Graham's independent San Francisco label, this record signaled the end of an era as far as musical approaches were concerned. I was introduced to this band through this record by one of my young musical peers, who loved springing new things on those he knew could really get into something "different." Well...for 1970, this was very different from anything I'd heard on records up to that time, for sure! Raw, muscular, horn-driven R&B/Funk with gritty vocals that was more derived from southern-styled 60's Soul instead of the sweeter, more pop - oriented R&B sounds that dominated the airwaves of the day and vastly different from the psychedelic sounds of the rock bands of that era. Recorded basically 'live' in the studio, with only a minimal amount of overdubbing and remixing; representing what they sounded like then, in live performance mode; this music grabs you and refuses to let you go! Of course, the band eventually moved up to the major leagues with the switch to the Warner Bros. label in 1972 where they became more polished and turned out the best of their output; mainly during the first half of the 1970's, with their own sound and style of funk. And there always have been and probably always will be debates about who was their best front man and lead vocalist(they've gone thru almost a dozen - as close as I can remember, including ones who didn't even make it onto records with the group). I've heard them in live performance more times than any other artist I've ever listened to, and the many individual players who have passed through their ranks all attest to the joy of playing in this most unique ensemble. They have carved out a special place in the music world that is all their own and others have imitated their formula; yet, they still stand alone. But this record is always refreshing to go back and listen to for just pure enjoyment with no real commercial leanings and it served as an indicator of what was to come, in the next decade, when self - contained bands pretty much enjoyed their best popularity and success.

Pure unrefined FUNK!.......2004-11-02

I had this album on vinyl in the early 70s as a kid, and even then I knew it was something different. "Back on the Streets Again" has some of the tightest horn grooves ever heard. "Sparkling in the Sand" defies categorization -- despite it's slow tempo, it's not so much a ballad as it is a nine minute cruise, with waves of sound washing over you. The diversity of this band was amazing!

You Will Knock Yourself Out!.......2004-08-16

A word of warning Tower Of Power's cebut album is NOT the
least bit smooth or soft!From "Knock Yourself Out" on 'East Bay Grease' is filled with smelly horns,gutbucket rhythm and very
sandpapery singing.It actually owes more to the mutant horn
rock grooves of Blood,Sweat & Tears,Electric Flag and even Chicago then James Brown or Kool & The Gang.But the rhythm knows
it's buisness and that makes this album a dirving slice of gritty,hard core east coast funk!The plaintive "Sparkling In The
Sane" is the slowest song on the album and it doesn't even come
close to being soft-rather like a longish psychedelic soul groove with fleeting vocals.Any way you take it 'East Bay Grease' is very impressive stuff!

TOP RULES.......2004-07-24

AWESOME CD! TOP's first CD. One of the best, too. With "Knock Yourself Out" a GREAT song. And with Skip Mesquites fantastic flute playing on "Sparkling in the Sand" and Emilio Castillos awesome lead on "The Skunk, The Goose, and the Fly", this CD is a must have.

Average customer rating: tower of power Not the best, but not the worst The Real Review McGee "Slaughters" Album One of their better albums..

Ain't Nothin' Stoppin' Us Now Tower of Power Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: In the Slot Urban Renewal East Bay Grease T.O.P. Monster on a Leash ASIN: B00000257Q Release Date: 1993-05-11

Tracks:

1. Ain't Nothin' Stoppin' Us Now
2. By Your Side
3. Make Someone Happy
4. Doin' Alright
5. Because I Think The World Of You
6. You Ought To Be Havin' Fun
7. Can't Stand To See The Slaughter
8. It's So Nice
9. Deal With It
10. While We Went To The Moon

Customer Reviews:

tower of power.......2007-05-07

it's great to be able to get the cd's that are scarce.

Not the best, but not the worst.......2004-07-15

This album provides a mixture of reactions. While some of the tunes have the fire this band is known for producing, others will leave you scratching your head, wondering, "What were they thinking?" The title track is one of those catchy tunes that never gets old, helped by a light-hearted yet drving bass line. "Doin' Alright" and "You ought to be Havin'Fun" are also gems that have to be listened to multiple times to be appreciated, from the soulful singing of Edward McGee to the bump in the horn section. Then there's "I Think the World of You", and "While We Went to the Moon" with goofy synthesizers and lame horn licks that will make you laugh at the absurdity of it. Overall, though, I recommend this record for everyone but especially those fans who have some knowledge of TOP's history so that you can play this after listening recordings made with Warner Bros. and proceed onto albums they produced with Epic. A neat little music history lesson of one of music's greatest underappreciated bands.

The Real Review.......2003-03-15

While this LP wasn't their best, it has to be rated high because of CT's exceptional sound on the organ, especially when he leads off on the title track. Doin Alright is a nice song that kinds of reminds one of old black southern gospel quartets. You Ought to be Having Fun is one of those tunes that back in the day you couldblast through your car stereo system and have everyone on the street that heard it jammin or at the park dancin

McGee "Slaughters" Album.......2000-03-03

With Edward McGee's whiny vocal arrangements coupled with lyrics such as, "I can't stand to see the slaughter, but still I eats the meat", this album's "chops" are nothing but mindless butchery. The torture continues with sappy tracks like "You Ought to be Having Fun" and "Make Someone Happy". What would truly make me happy is throwing this album into a bonfire and roasting it to a crisp, golden brown. Eating this tainted "meat" will leave you with a bad taste in your mouth. Bon Appetite !

One of their better albums.........2000-01-28

Maybe he wasn't the best lead singer TOP has had, but this is a very good album and should be in any TOP collection.

Average customer rating: excellent r & b album from 1974. My Favorite TOP CD ! ! ! Urban Renewal 4.5 Stars SOUL RENEWAL !!!

Urban Renewal Tower of Power Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Back to Oakland Tower of Power Bump City In the Slot East Bay Grease ASIN: B000002KFN Release Date: 1993-09-14

Tracks:

1. Only So Much Oil In The Ground
2. Come Back, Baby
3. It's Not The Crime
4. I Wont Leave Unless You Want Me To
5. Maybe It'll Rub Off
6. (To Say The Least) You're The Most
7. Willing To Learn
8. Give Me The Proof
9. It Can Never Be The Same
10. I Believe In Myself
11. Walkin' Up Hip Street

Customer Reviews:

excellent r & b album from 1974........2007-04-01

this is a fun, horn-driven set of rhythm and blues. white boys (all but one,anyway) who at times sound somewhere in the stevie wonder neighborhood of things, at other times in the jazzier realm of r & b. very energetic, very at ease with this music, these are some outstanding musicians delivering a fine creation to the world. i wish i had talent.

My Favorite TOP CD ! ! ! .......2007-03-26

Urban Renewal is definitely my favorite TOP album... maybe not their most famous... but definitely the classic line-up at its peak.... tight, bumpin' and razor sharp from top to bottom... The year is 1975... Soul might have been going "disco-ey" elsewhere, but TOP was still a cutting edge soul powerhouse. As noted elsewhere, Garibaldi is absent on a few of the tracks... but nothing's missing from the groove... Pretty amazing considering that the Garibaldi/Prestia mix was and always has been a key element of a band best known as a "horn session" group... (actually, except for Prestia and Kupka, and for years Adams, other members of the horn section were constantly changing!) - - The truth though was that aside from their unique sound and arrangements, they weren't just a horn section band... and they didn't just have a tight rhythm section at the time of this recording (and on most of their other recordings.) On this album there's Lenny Williams, one of the greatest soul singers on the planet, whether he's singing funky or sweet soul and the virtually unimitable Chester Thompson on organ. Also, we mustn't forget Bruce Conte's sharp, punchy yet flexible rhythm guitar either - - and there are some unforgettable lyrics. - - The thing, however that holds this album together the most is TOP's ability to BUMP when it comes to funk, but do soul ballads in a BLISTERY way that only they could. - - Put simply, this album is mandatory music listening - - period... begs for repeated listens and gets better with age - - not just another great soul recording, but mandatory listening by a band that churned out hits, and also gained a reputation as "musician's musicians" at the same ime !

Urban Renewal.......2006-01-18

This is classic TOP, reportedly Mic Gillette's favorite recording with the group. There are great, funky grooves and tight TOP horns and many memorable tunes. I rank this one just a half-notch below the Tower of Power release.

4.5 Stars.......2004-07-24

A really good CD. With great songs like "Only So Much Oil in the Ground" (great solo by Lenny Pickett). And "Willing to Learn" a GREAT song. This is a good CD. I recommend it.

SOUL RENEWAL !!!.......2003-07-16

Clearly, one of the monster group's best efforts. Despite missing Garibaldi, the drumming was superb. And the interplay between bass (Prestia) and drums (Bartlett), so critical to the TOP sound, didn't miss a beat. In Lenny Williams' swan song with the group, the public was left with this masterpiece in his wake. The environmentally conscious opener "Only So Much Oil" brings this compilation alive, from the sizzling B-3 opening riffs by Chester Thompson, to Lenny Pickett's amazing sax interlude in the middle, to the backing vocals to Lenny's amazing range throughout the song and on through the entire album. I'd previously thought their best album up to this point was "Back To Oakland", which is still a classic among fans. But I think for quality of music and the band's maturity level and confort zone they were feeling, this album ranks as ONE of their best. I put this on when I want to feel the raw power of horns, vocals, bass, drums, funk, and energy. Even the ballads are strong. Even the mid-tempo filler is a definite winner in "It Can Never Be The Same". The inimitable guitar solo at the end is totally killer. All of it isn't necessarily dance music --- but it's definitely funky!! A total winner of an album and one of the best this fabulous group has ever done.

Average customer rating: My favorite CD List of best Tower of Power albums The Tower Does It Best On Stage THE Best "Live" album........Period! Simply put, THE GREATEST LIVE ALBUM EVER!!!!!

Live and in Living Color Tower of Power Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music Soul | Live Albums | R&B | Styles | Music General | Live Albums | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Soul Vaccination: Live Back to Oakland East Bay Grease Tower of Power Bump City ASIN: B000002KGC Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Down To The Nightclub (Bump City)
2. You're Still A Young Man
3. What Is Hip?
4. Sparkling In The Sand
5. Knock Yourself Out

Customer Reviews:

My favorite CD.......2004-07-24

This CD is AWESOME! Tower of power is the best live band. I've seen them live, and they are awesome. Lenny Pickett's 10 minute solo is amazing! I think this is Tower of Power's best CD.

List of best Tower of Power albums.......2004-06-21

1. Live and in Living Color- Great 10 min. sax solo in Knock Yourself Out by Lenny Pickett (the guy from Saturday Night Live)
2. Soul Vaccination:Live- Tower is one of the best live bands around.
3. Bump City- 2nd Album,You got to Funkifize,Down to the Nightclub.
4. Tower of Power- self titled 3rd album, What is Hip?
5. Back to Oakland- Squib Cakes, AWESOME INSTRUMENTAL!!!
6. Urban Renewal- Lenny Williams shows his soul with Willing to Learn
7. East Bay Grease- 1st Album, Knock Yourself Out is my favorite song
8. T.O.P.-Tower's comeback album, Soul with a Capitol S
9. In the Slot- Great instrumentals, Greg Adams shows his genius
10.Rhythm & Buisness- So I got to Groove, cool song
11.Souled Out- Listen to Diggin' on James Brown
12.Monster on a Leash
13.Oakland Zone
14.Direct
15.Power
16.Ain't nothin stoppin us now
17.We came to play
18.Back On the streets

The Tower Does It Best On Stage.......2003-09-18

The first Tower Of Power recording this reveiwer ever
listened to is still the best! One of the tightest Soul bands
to ever hit the stage proved their virtuoso chops with a fan-
tastic concert.
TOP was always known for having the "best horn section in
the business (to quote Paul Shaffer of Letterman fame)", but
the rhythm section has to get its props, too.
Arranger/trumpeter Greg Adams has a great solo on "What Is
Hip?", using his microphone as a mute, and lead trumpeter Mic
Gillette shows off his steely trumpet sound on the intro to
"You're Still a Young Man". Guitarist Bruce Conte thrills con-
stantly and his vocal on "Sparkling in the Sand" makes one won-
der why he wasn't featured more often as a singer.
The 23-plus minute "Knock Yourself Out" features a very
long but very inventive Lenny Pickett tenor solo, plus shorter
solos by the rest of the horns, including guest trumpeter Bill
Lamb. Organist Chester Thompson essays a funky solo using his
Clavinet and the ARP string synthesizer, backed by Conte, bassist extraordinaire Francis Rocco Prestia and one of the
best funk drummers, David Garibaldi.
This CD is a fine introduction to the sound of Tower Of
Power.

THE Best "Live" album........Period!.......2003-09-14

I first heard this album in 1977...lemme tell you, finding good funk and soul up in Maine at that time wasn't easy! But as soon as I heard the band tear into "Down to the Nightclub", my ears opened like a parachute. I then proceeded to wear that album out playing it for my friends, who then demanded multiple listenings. We were all music majors in college by the way. This recording stands only with 1 other "live" album...that being "Waiting For Colombus" by Little Feat (that features the TOP Horns BTW).....as THE best live album you will hear, and the best representation of TOP you can get. Almost all of their albums stand out on the frontline of funk and soul, but this is the one to get if'n you can get only one. Monster horns, a rhythm section that locks it up tight, and Hubert Tubbs cooks it all down to a bubbling pot of steaming funk-gumbo that if you aren't stomping your feet by the 3rd cut....you're six-by-six brother!! And this features THE definitive cut of "What Is Hip" BTW........

Simply put, THE GREATEST LIVE ALBUM EVER!!!!!.......2003-08-21

When I first heard this cd in 1991, I was on a road trip with a bunch of my college friends. It quickly became a staple of my traveling cd collection for the car and continues to be there even today. I would tend to disagree with the gentleman from St. Louis that said this was the 2nd best TOP lineup ever, putting the lineup from "Tower Of Power" to "Urban Renewal" at the top. I would reverse those since this particular cd and "In the Slot" are my #1 and #2 favorite TOP discs (the Lenny Williams-led discs being 3, 4, and 5 respectively.) This reminds me a lot of Billy Joel's "Songs In The Attic" in that it is material that while sounding adequate in the studio(What Is Hip being the exception), just ABSOLUTELY BURNS live. From the opening sounds of "Down To The Nightclub" to the raw force of the AMAZING TOP horn section in their greatest lineup ever in "You're Still A Young Man." The version of "What Is Hip" is faster and every bit as fantastic as the studio version on the aforementioned "Tower of Power." While I do enjoy the version of "Sparkling In The Sand" with the fabulous trumpet work of Mic Gillete, I almost wish they would've put something different on this album, maybe "Soul Vaccination" or "On The Serious Side." I'm not complaining though. They definately save the best for last with the 23:07 version of "Knock Yourself Out." Lenny Pickett comes in with an amazing sax solo that makes you feel as if you've gone 15 rounds with the heavyweight champ of the world only to have the organ/bass pedal solo by Chester Thompson say "Uh uh, you got one more round to go." The key to the whole band are the anchors: Rocco Prestia on bass, and David Garibaldi on drums. Its great to see that these two are back in good health (Prestia) and in the band (Garibaldi) If you only buy one TOP cd....buy this one first and you'll be hooked forever.

Average customer rating: FIVE STARS!!! An album that breathes! Tower at their most concise What is Hip? This is HIP! Still Greazy After All These Years

Bump City Tower of Power Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | R&B | Styles | Music General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | R&B General | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Funk | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Soul General | Soul | R&B | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: East Bay Grease Tower of Power Back to Oakland Urban Renewal In the Slot ASIN: B000002KE4 Release Date: 1993-09-14

Tracks:

1. You Got To Funkifize
2. What Happened To The World That Day?
3. Flash In The Pan
4. Gone (In Memory Of Jacqueline Mesquite)
5. You Strike My Main Nerve
6. Down To The Nightclub
7. You're Still A Young Man
8. Skating On Thin Ice
9. Of The Earth

Customer Reviews:

FIVE STARS!!!.......2004-07-24

an AWESOME CD! "You're Still a Young Man" is one of my favorite songs ever. "Down to the Nightclub" is such a great song. This CD is great.

An album that breathes!.......2004-04-12

I thought THE Tower of Power album was their 1973 "Tower of Power", until I was introduced to "Bump City"; an even funkier album. I'd never heard Tower of Power this RAW anywhere else. It's really nice to hear that they, once upon a time, could groove and make things work without trying to sound 101% clean, metronomic, and "correct". Tower of Power has an exceptionally funky sound throughout this album; especially Rocco's bass, is FAT! "Bump City", as opposed to MANY of their newer albums, is not sterile; it's human. It lives and breathes, and for most part it rocks and grooves like crazy. Of course, like on all their albums, there are a few up-hill tunes, like "Gone" and "You're Still a Young Man", but the album has unusually few tracks of that kind. For a raw sound and good mixture of material, I recommend ToP's first three albums, "East Bay Grease" (1970), "Bump City" (1972), and "Tower of Power" (1973). You've got to Funkifize!

Tower at their most concise.......2003-10-13

This album is Tower seeking to translate their awesome musicality and cult following into a signature sound that would appeal to a wider audience. Consequently, the songs are shorter than on their "East Bay Grease" debut album. It's also one of the Tower albums where you can play all the way through. This vocalist is not the Lenny Williams from their peak period, but he does a great job and you wish he had been able to stick around for a couple more albums. "Bump City" and "Down to the Nightclub" are great tunes, although they are also avaialble on the compilations.

If you're trying to get Tower albums, this is a worthwhile purchase although its not my favorite. Sadly, the pop success began to come with "Still a Young Man". This is a solid tune, but future Tower albums included more cheesy ballad numbers that diluted their funk and sought the pop audience. Moreover, Tower distinguishes themselves from other funk bands by their instrumental jams like "Squib Cakes" from Back To Oakland, and they hadn't added that component to their albums yet.

If you like the Tower from their peak period ["Tower of Power", "Back To Oakland", "Live"] and want to hear where that sound is coming from, "Bump City" is a great record to hear their early work.

--SD

What is Hip? This is HIP!.......2003-02-03

My college roommate had this album back in the day (1973/74) and I remember liking it back then, but I never became a huge Tower of Power fan (I was into hard rock). Recently I decided to check it out again after all these years and I bought it. My god, this album is ridiculously great! Every single song is great. What a contrast to most of the pablam that's being put out today. I've got 30 years of Tower of Power to catch up on. Next step is to check out all of T.O.P.'s other highly regarded CDs (primarily the early ones). Buy this album!

Still Greazy After All These Years.......2003-01-31

This is the first TOP album I ever saw in my fathers record collection in the 70s.Everytime I saw the cover I would become afraid and cover my ears thinking lightning and thunder were about to strike.Little did I know then,THAT WAS TRUE.The first time I actually played the record in the late 80s i definitely heard the thunder and lightnin that TOP is capable of producing and they still continue to do so.Rick Stevens was the grittiest voiced lead singer they had but alas it was only for one album and he was sentenced to 25 years in the joint for manslaughter 3 years later.However Lenny Williams (who co wrote "You Strike My Main Nerve") came forward to take them to the next level in 73

Jazz Music:

1. The Valley of the Kings
2. The Young Lions
3. This-A-Way That-A-Way [Live]
4. This Is Chris [Import]
5. Trumpet Summit Meets The Oscar Peterson Big Four
6. Two Views
7. Very Best of Latin Jazz
8. Viva Brasil
9. Way Past Midnight
10. Young & Foolish

Jazz Music

jazz music