James Gang - Rides Again (1970)

James Gang - Rides Again (1970) (SHM-CD 2009)

With their second album Rides Again, the James Gang came into their own. Under the direction of guitarist Joe Walsh, the group -- now featuring bassist Dale Peters -- began incorporating keyboards into their hard rock, which helped open up their musical horizons. For much of the first side of Rides Again, the group tear through a bunch of boogie numbers, most notably the heavy groove of "Funk #49." On the second side, the James Gang departs from their trademark sound, adding keyboard flourishes and elements of country-rock to their hard rock. Walsh's songwriting had improved, giving the band solid support for their stylistic experiments. What ties the two sides of the record together is the strength of the band's musicianship, which burns brightly and powerfully on the hardest rockers, as well as on the sensitive ballads...S. Erlewine

Joe Walsh is one of the most underappreciated musicians in rock music. Whether it be his work with The James Gang, The Eagles or solo work, he consistently makes quality and inspiring rock music. He may have been at his best with this Ohio-based band and Rides On is their finest effort. The album kicks off with a rock classic, the manic "Funk #49" which has a great riff. "The Bomber" shows off Mr. Walsh's guitar prowess with some wicked slide work. The first five tracks are classic arena rock, but the band shows there diversity with the second five tracks that form a song suite of sorts. They are more in the country-rock vein and show a softer side as opposed to the heaviness of the first five tracks. The James Gang never achieved the commercial success they deserved, but Rides Again is a great place to start to get an idea of the quality of this group.

320 @
80 MB

Tracklist:

01 Funk #49 3:54
02 Asshtonpark 2:01
03 Woman 4:37
04 The Bomber: Closet Queen/Cast Your Fate to the Wind 5:40
05 Tend My Garden 5:45
06 Garden Gate 1:36
07 There I Go Again 2:51
08 Thanks 2:21
09 Ashes, the Rain and I 5:00