Category: Classic Rock History

The self-titled album "Montrose" by the band Montrose was released in 1973. Montrose was an American rock band formed by guitarist Ronnie Montrose and featuring lead vocalist Sammy Hagar, bassist Bill Church, and drummer Denny Carmassi. The album is often regarded as a classic in the hard rock genre and is considered one of the band's most influential works.

"Montrose" is known for its energetic and heavy sound, blending elements of hard rock, blues, and early heavy metal. The album's production was handled by Ted Templeman, who had previously worked with bands like Van Morrison and The Doobie Brothers, and the result was a raw and powerful sound that became a blueprint for many subsequent hard rock bands.

The album kicks off with the iconic track "Rock the Nation," which immediately grabs the listener's attention with its driving guitar riffs and Hagar's powerful vocals. Other notable tracks on the album include "Bad Motor Scooter," a high-energy rocker that became one of Montrose's signature songs, and "Space Station #5," a song characterized by its heavy guitar riff and memorable chorus.

"Montrose" received positive reviews upon its release and has since become a cult favorite among rock enthusiasts. It showcased the impressive guitar skills of Ronnie Montrose, who was known for his innovative playing style and precise execution. Sammy Hagar's vocals also stood out, displaying his range and ability to deliver energetic and passionate performances.

Track by track:

1. Rock the Nation:
   • Overview: The opening track sets the tone for the entire album with its explosive energy. The driving guitar riffs by Ronnie Montrose are immediately attention-grabbing, and Sammy Hagar's vocals soar with power and charisma. The rhythm section, comprised of Bill Church on bass and Denny Carmassi on drums, provides a solid foundation for the relentless pace of the song.
   • Highlights: The anthemic chorus and Montrose's dynamic guitar solo showcase the band's ability to craft memorable hooks and exhibit instrumental prowess.
2. Bad Motor Scooter:
   • Overview: This track is a standout with its bluesy undertones and infectious rhythm. Hagar's vocals are gritty and passionate, and Montrose's guitar work, especially the iconic opening riff, is instantly recognizable. The song's lyrics and overall vibe exude a rebellious and carefree spirit.
   • Highlights: The slide guitar elements and the energetic interplay between vocals and instrumentation contribute to the song's enduring appeal.
3. Space Station #5:
   • Overview: This epic track is a journey through different musical landscapes. Starting with a spacey intro, it transitions into a heavy, riff-driven section. The song showcases Montrose's ability to seamlessly blend different musical elements, from progressive rock to hard-hitting metal.
   • Highlights: The extended guitar solo in the latter part of the song is a highlight, demonstrating Montrose's technical skill and innovative approach to the instrument.
4. I Don't Want It:
   • Overview: This track maintains the album's high energy, with a driving rhythm and powerful vocals. The lyrics convey a sense of rebellion and a rejection of conformity, fitting well with the overall theme of the album.
   • Highlights: The catchy chorus and the tight musical interplay between all band members contribute to the song's effectiveness.
5. Good Rockin' Tonight:
   • Overview: A cover of the classic rock and roll song, Montrose infuses their signature style into this track. It's a straightforward, high-energy piece that pays homage to the roots of rock while incorporating the band's distinctive sound.
   • Highlights: The band's interpretation of the classic song is both respectful and inventive, showcasing their ability to put a unique spin on well-known material.
6. Rock Candy:
   • Overview: This song is a hard-hitting, riff-heavy piece that exemplifies the band's knack for crafting memorable rock tunes. It features dynamic shifts in tempo and showcases Montrose's guitar virtuosity.
   • Highlights: The relentless guitar riff and the interplay between the instruments create a sense of urgency and excitement throughout the track.
     
7. One Thing on My Mind:
   • Overview: This track slows down the tempo a bit, offering a bluesy and soulful vibe. Sammy Hagar's vocals shine with emotion, and Ronnie Montrose's guitar work continues to be a driving force. The song explores a more reflective and introspective mood compared to the high-energy tracks preceding it.
   • Highlights: The emotive vocal delivery and the expressive guitar solos contribute to the song's depth and make it a standout in the album's lineup.
     
8. Make It Last:
   • Overview: Closing the album, "Make It Last" is a dynamic and multifaceted piece that showcases the band's ability to create intricate compositions. It starts with a melodic and almost ballad-like section before escalating into a powerful rock anthem. The song encapsulates the overall versatility of Montrose as a band.
   • Highlights: The transitions between the softer and heavier sections, along with the compelling lyrics, make "Make It Last" a fitting conclusion to the album. Ronnie Montrose's guitar work, as always, is a highlight.

In summary, "Montrose" is a cohesive album that showcases the band's prowess in crafting energetic, riff-driven rock music. Each track contributes to the overall sonic journey, with memorable hooks, powerful vocals, and outstanding instrumental performances.

Despite its critical acclaim, the album did not achieve significant commercial success upon its initial release. However, over time, it gained a strong following and is now recognized as a classic album in the hard rock genre. It influenced many musicians and bands, including Van Halen, who later recruited Sammy Hagar as their lead vocalist.

"Tapestry" is a critically acclaimed album by American singer-songwriter Carole King, released in 1971. It is considered to be one of the greatest albums of all time, and it has sold over 25 million copies worldwide.

The album features 12 tracks, most of which were written by King herself, either alone or in collaboration with other songwriters such as Gerry Goffin and Toni Stern. Some of the album's most iconic tracks include "I Feel the Earth Move," "It's Too Late," "You've Got a Friend," and "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," which was famously covered by Aretha Franklin.

"Tapestry" is known for its confessional and introspective lyrics, which were ahead of their time in the early 1970s. King's voice is soulful and expressive, and her piano playing is both intricate and powerful. The album was produced by Lou Adler, who helped to bring out the best in King's songs and performances.

"Tapestry" won four Grammy Awards in 1972, including Album of the Year, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, Record of the Year for "It's Too Late," and Song of the Year for "You've Got a Friend." It continues to be regarded as a classic album and a landmark in the singer-songwriter genre.

Track by track (vinyl):

1. I Feel the Earth Move:
   • This track sets the tone for the album with its upbeat tempo and infectious energy. King's vocals are vibrant, and her piano playing is dynamic. The song captures the heady feeling of newfound love and infatuation.
2. So Far Away:
   • A poignant ballad that reflects on the loneliness and separation from loved ones. King's vocals are emotive, and the stripped-down arrangement allows the sincerity of the lyrics to shine through.
3. It's Too Late:
   • Perhaps one of the most iconic tracks on the album, "It's Too Late" features a memorable piano riff and heartfelt lyrics. King's delivery is soulful, and the song perfectly captures the emotions of a relationship coming to an end.
4. Home Again:
   • This song has a comforting and reflective quality. It's a beautiful exploration of finding solace and security, particularly in the face of life's uncertainties. The simplicity of the arrangement enhances the intimacy of the lyrics.
5. Beautiful:
   • With its uplifting melody and positive lyrics, "Beautiful" is a celebration of self-love and acceptance. King's vocals are warm and reassuring, making it a standout track that resonates with listeners.
6. Way Over Yonder:
   • This gospel-inspired track showcases King's ability to draw from various musical influences. The song's themes of hope and resilience are underscored by powerful vocals and a soulful arrangement.
7. You've Got a Friend:
   • A classic in its own right, this song is a testament to friendship and support. The soulful rendition by King, coupled with James Taylor's backing vocals, creates a timeless piece that has resonated across generations.
8. Where You Lead:
   • This upbeat and catchy song is a joyful exploration of love and commitment. The lyrics, written in collaboration with Toni Stern, convey a sense of devotion and partnership.
9. Will You Love Me Tomorrow?:
   • Originally co-written by King and Gerry Goffin for The Shirelles, this rendition is more introspective. The slower tempo and King's emotional delivery add depth to the lyrics, exploring the uncertainty of love.
10. Smackwater Jack:
    • This track adds a bluesy and jazzy element to the album. The storytelling is vivid, and King's piano skills shine. The song's narrative about a man named Smackwater Jack has a theatrical quality.
11. Tapestry:
    • The title track is a metaphorical exploration of life's journey and the interconnectedness of experiences. King's lyrics, combined with a melodic piano arrangement, create a reflective and introspective mood.
12. (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman:
    • Originally co-written by King and Goffin, this song became a signature tune for Aretha Franklin. King's rendition on "Tapestry" is soulful and powerful, providing a fitting conclusion to the album.

"Tapestry" is a masterpiece that not only showcases Carole King's exceptional songwriting and musical talent but also captures the spirit of the early 1970s singer-songwriter movement. The album's enduring appeal lies in its honesty, relatability, and the timelessness of its themes. Each track contributes to the overall narrative of love, loss, and self-discovery, making it a landmark in the history of popular music.

"Tapestry" would become the best-selling pop album of all time until Peter Frampton's 1976 live album "Frampton Comes Alive!" eclipsed it. At 318 weeks on the US Billboard 200, it remained the longest-charting album by a solo female artist until Adele's "21" in 2017.

"Humble Pie Performance: Rockin' the Fillmore" is a live album by the English rock band Humble Pie, released in 1971. The album was recorded during four shows at the Fillmore East in New York City in May 1971 and features the classic lineup of the band, consisting of Steve Marriott on vocals and guitar, Peter Frampton on vocals and guitar, Greg Ridley on bass, and Jerry Shirley on drums.

The album is considered a landmark in the history of live recordings and is widely regarded as one of the best live albums of all time. The band's energetic performance and the raw, powerful sound of their music have made it a favorite among rock fans for over four decades.

The album features mostly covers, including their hits "I Don't Need No Doctor" and "Four Day Creep," as well as other classics like Ray Charles' "Hallelujah I Love Her So". "Stone Cold Fever", from their album "Rock On", is the lone original on the album.

The album received critical acclaim upon its release, with Rolling Stone calling it "a masterpiece" and praising the band's ability to capture the energy and excitement of their live shows on record. It has since been recognized as one of the greatest live albums ever recorded and has influenced generations of rock musicians.

"Get Ready" is the second studio album by American rock band Rare Earth, released in 1969. The album is widely considered to be one of the band's best, featuring a blend of rock, soul, and funk elements that was ahead of its time.

The album includes the band's signature hit, a cover of the Temptations' "Get Ready," the radio edit of which became Rare Earth's first Top 10 single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Long-form jam tracks were popular at the time, sometimes taking up an entire side of an album. The "Get Ready" album version clocks in at 21m30s, with band members taking extended instrumental solos. The album also features several other notable tracks, including "Magic Key," "Tobacco Road," "In Bed," and a cover of Dave Mason's "Feelin' Alright".

"Get Ready" was produced by Tom Baird and Rare Earth, and was recorded at Motown's Hitsville U.S.A. studios in Detroit. The album's sound is characterized by the band's use of the Hammond B-3 organ, which adds a distinctive and soulful sound to the rock-based instrumentation.

"Get Ready" is a classic album that showcases Rare Earth's unique sound and style. It remains a favorite among fans of classic rock and soul music, and has been influential to many artists in the decades since its release.

Trivia: Smoky Robinson wrote the song "Get Ready" and produced the Temptations version in 1966. When the song only reached a disappointing No. 29 on the U.S. pop chart, Motown studio head Berry Gordy replaced Robinson as the Temptations' producer. Ironically, four years later, the Rare Earth version would go to No. 4.