Miami

If "Rides Again" was the James Gang's best Joe Walsh-led album, then "Miami" is certainly their best record with Tommy Bolin on the lead guitar and songwriting helm. By the time of its release in 1974, the James Gang's once-potentially bright star had begun to rapidly fade, but the band seemed not the least bit distracted, but very reinvigorated by the addition of guitar virtuoso Bolin to the lineup.The previous album with Bolin on board, "Bang" was a solid effort, but "Miami" seems more realized. And yes, the labels often thrown at the material, which include but are not limited to "generic," "uninspired," and "standard 70s party time hard rock" all can apply in many places on the album, but there are also several spots in which they don't. The dazzlingly gorgeous instrumental 'Praylude' is as beautiful a piece of music ever spawned from a 70s rock act, while the mysterious/funky 'Wildfire' and the reflective gem 'Sleepwalker' add taste to the disc. Bolin gets a lead vocal turn on 'Spanish Lover,' and the tracks on which the "generic" label does apply - namely the rollicking opener 'Cruisin' Down the Highway,' 'Do It,' and 'Summer Breezes' - they're such enjoyable songs that it just doesn't matter."Miami" is a lost gem in a decade of endless lost gems. It is well played and each bar is squeezed out with dedication. There are cryptic and deep elements in "Miami" that counter the good-time-rock-n-roll, with a beauty you can't quite put your finger on.

Miami, is the follow up to Bang, by the James Gang. It was a tough act to follow, as "Must Be Love" was the #3 song of the year on Billboards Top 100. Miami is an excellent album. The songs Red Skies, Spanish Lover, Sleepwalker, Cruising Down The Highway, are particular favorites. A gifted guitarist, Tommy Bolin had replaced axeman Dominic Troiano, who had replaced Joe Walsh (on Joes recommendation). They were BIG shoes to fill. Tommy did an exceptional job. The albums Tommy recorded with James Gang, still sound fresh and exciting after 40yrs. As does his Deep Purple album. The mark of good songs, is they stand the test of time. All Tommy's work (except, perhaps, the 2 Zephyr LPs)has done just that. I recommend Miami, and any album Tommy work on. He was a master guitarist, and left us too soon. Give this CD a listen, you will hear a virtuoso plying his craft.

You know I never really got into the James Gang. Don’t get me wrong I do love all of their “hits”. But I stereotyped all of their music into the Funk 49 sound and left it at that. It was at work that I heard Praylude/Red Skies, and was completely amazed. Amazed to the point that I bought the entire album from Amazon. Now I’m looking for more. The James Gang Rocks!!

I had a slight issue with the product and the seller made the situation right immediately. Highly recommend.

I've been a long time T Bolin fan and was extremely excited to listen to the music from, Miami. His stylistic guitar makes it's way throughout the tracks but some of the songs along with the vocals fall short for me. This album/CD is a, must have, for his fans but don't except the same delivery as, Bang. The redemption for me is hearing new T. Bolin tracks. Worth purchasing, of coarse.

This is a pleasant surprise for me ! I did not know the Great Tommy Bolin was in this band ! I would like to thank Amazon for helping me find that out ! And yes James Gang Bang is on order too ! If you love Bolin ? WHY NOT ! ?

...and only recently discovered Tommy Bolin; much to my loss! This album and "Bang" are two incredible gems of music that I've stumbled on thanks to the critiques on Amazon's Reviews. 70's style rock music with great songs, played by great musicians, seemingly having a great time! If you're a fan of the genre, looking for something you might be missing from your collection than "Miami" is it. Enjoy....

cool