Running like the wind
"Running Like The Wind" . Southern rock and Capricorn Records were facing an uphill battle during the disco era that was in full swing at this time. When MTB signed on with Warner Brothers my initial reaction was that they had sold out and had become part of the corporate music machine. My guess is that many others had the same thoughts as "Running Like The Wind" still could have been a monumental success had the original fan base simply given this release an unbiased listen.
There is much to like here as the songwriting and performances are mighty fine. Everyone is on their game including Doug Gray who consistently delivers top notch vocals on 6 of the 7 tracks. Tommy Caldwell steps up to the mic for the one remaining track, "Melody Ann", and delivers a warm, southern tribute to his special lady. This track has that "Where We All Belong" feel to it and would have fit in nicely on that album.
Harkening back to the formula used to kick off "A New Life", RLTW opens up with an extended, moody title track that clocks in at 9+ minutes and sets the bar high. "Last of the Singing Cowboys" comes next and is an outstanding story song that expands the boundaries of where MTB's western swing/jazz numbers had gone previously and would rarely reach again. No doubt Warner's input regarding the arrangement and production on this specific number transformed it into the big-time event it ends up becoming. Fortunately, Toy Caldwell punctuates the proceedings with his trademark licks leaving MTB's unmistakable brand permanently imbedded.
"Answer to Love" is the third track and features Doug Gray's vocals which are subtle and plaintive throughout until he delivers the powerful plea that concludes it. "Unto These Hills" comes next and is an extended workout where Toy shines and shares the spotlight with Jerry Eubanks. The aforementioned "Melody Ann" slides into to the fifth slot preceding another Warner influenced number, "My Best Friend". This high energy tune is given a full, west coast horn arrangement similar to what the Doobie Brothers had employed on their "Stampede" album (1975 WB). Toy really gets to cut loose on the tail end of this one. By contrast, the next track "Pass It On" is a return to basics and the more traditional MTB sound. This is another tune that would have fit well on any of the preceding Capricorn-era albums and closes the album out nicely.
I am certainly glad that I gave "Running Like The Wind" a fresh listen after all of these years. It showcases a different MTB sound that is very enjoyable and is a welcome addition to my music collection.
There is much to like here as the songwriting and performances are mighty fine. Everyone is on their game including Doug Gray who consistently delivers top notch vocals on 6 of the 7 tracks. Tommy Caldwell steps up to the mic for the one remaining track, "Melody Ann", and delivers a warm, southern tribute to his special lady. This track has that "Where We All Belong" feel to it and would have fit in nicely on that album.
Harkening back to the formula used to kick off "A New Life", RLTW opens up with an extended, moody title track that clocks in at 9+ minutes and sets the bar high. "Last of the Singing Cowboys" comes next and is an outstanding story song that expands the boundaries of where MTB's western swing/jazz numbers had gone previously and would rarely reach again. No doubt Warner's input regarding the arrangement and production on this specific number transformed it into the big-time event it ends up becoming. Fortunately, Toy Caldwell punctuates the proceedings with his trademark licks leaving MTB's unmistakable brand permanently imbedded.
"Answer to Love" is the third track and features Doug Gray's vocals which are subtle and plaintive throughout until he delivers the powerful plea that concludes it. "Unto These Hills" comes next and is an extended workout where Toy shines and shares the spotlight with Jerry Eubanks. The aforementioned "Melody Ann" slides into to the fifth slot preceding another Warner influenced number, "My Best Friend". This high energy tune is given a full, west coast horn arrangement similar to what the Doobie Brothers had employed on their "Stampede" album (1975 WB). Toy really gets to cut loose on the tail end of this one. By contrast, the next track "Pass It On" is a return to basics and the more traditional MTB sound. This is another tune that would have fit well on any of the preceding Capricorn-era albums and closes the album out nicely.
I am certainly glad that I gave "Running Like The Wind" a fresh listen after all of these years. It showcases a different MTB sound that is very enjoyable and is a welcome addition to my music collection.
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