siLLy puPPy
JAMES GANG is famous for being the first major band of guitarist Joe Walsh who is more famous for his solo albums and his work with The Eagles. On this debut album his signature sound is definitely on board. His nice slow and easy bluesy guitar playing as well as his more rockin' riffs all make their debut here as well as his instantly recognizable vocals. After many line up changes since their formation in 1966, they ended up as a trio on this album.
Considering this came out in 1969, this is a very well developed album that sounds like the perfect transition album from the heavy psych and blues of the 60s (which they may have picked up by opening up for Cream) and the hard bluesy rock of the early 70s reminding a bit of the Allman Bros despite not having dual guitars and also a bit like the sound the Edgar Winter Band would eventually pick up on. There is a definitive funky jamming feel to this album. These are composed songs of sort but definitely get a lot more meat on them in the tasty improvisation that is attatched.
There are hard rockers and tender ballads and several freaky intros as well. This album is really a treat to listen to from beginning to end. Melodic and hard hitting and to be honest I actually like this debut album better than the first Led Zeppelin album that came out the same year. This is definitely bluesy hard rock in nature but so much more was added to spice it up that I can't help but love the feel of the whole thing.