Whirlwind (Purple Pyramid Records, 2013)
Whirlwind is a 2-CD collection of rare tracks and unreleased recordings from famed rock guitarist Tommy Bolin. Although Bolin was better known for his work with Deep Purple, James Gang and the Billy Cobham band, he left a large volume of original songs and instrumental recordings.
Bolin had a jazz-rock band called Energy and some of the material on Whirlwind was destined for his third solo album. Regretfully, Bolin died in 1976, ending a fruitful career. Bolin’s style was closer to blues-rock jams than the jazz-infused fusion that other musicians were pursuing during that decade.
Whirlwind was produced by Greg Hampton and Johnnie Bolin. It include a captivating 26-minute version of “Marching Powder” ( called “Marching Bag” in this edition) from his first solo album ‘Teaser.
The album comes is several versions, an 8-panel, 2-CD digipak and a 2-LP gatefold vinyl set. For collectors, Purple Pyramid Records released a special limited (1000 only) deluxe box edition of this collection that include the 2-CD digipak plus 4 color postcards, a Tommy Bolin signature guitar pick, collectable patch and pin.
“Tommy’s music was way ahead of its time. He’s one of the truly greatest guitarists to ever live, and he left an incredible legacy that will continue to influence and inspire musicians forever. The tracks on ‘Whirlwind’ are remarkable because they give you a glimpse into the amazing diversity Tommy was capable of,” says producer Greg Hampton.
Promotional video featuring rare footage of Tommy Bolin on stage:
Buy Whirlwind 2-Cd version and Deluxe edition in North America
Buy Whirlwind 2-Cd version and Deluxe edition in Europe