Tommy Bolin was one of rock's tragic figures. He showed immense promise and produced a body of memorable work, but unforunately died far too young at the age of 25.
The music he left behind qualifies him for inclusion in any ranking of top rock players. Bolin utilized a smooth, fluid Stratocaster style; while not as razor-edged as Robin Trower's, was equal in power.
He first gained notice in the late 60s with a female-fronted band called Zephyr, then in the early and mid-70s bounced around in various studio projects as a 'hired gun' (most notably with Billy Cobham's Spectrum and Canadian rockers Moxy).
1973 saw him land his first big name gig with the James Gang. They released two albums, 'Miami' and 'Bang', the latter containing the classic Bolin tune Standing In the Rain. In 1975, his career broke wide open. He joined Deep Purple as Ritchie Blackmore's replacement, and also released an excellent solo album called 'Teaser'. His one studio album with Purple, 'Come Taste the Band', is Bolin at his absolute best. You Keep Me Moving and the haunting Owed To 'G' are highpoints.
Although Bolin wasn't around long enough to cement a legacy as one of the true greats, his unique style and tasteful solos won him a hard core of followers. He died on December 4, 1976 of a drug overdose.
