Essential Listening #85: The Bomber

My Comments

Another song that really made me want to play slide guitar when I was a kid. Joe Walsh was a big influence to me.

Details

“The Bomber” is a standout track by the James Gang, featured on their second studio album, James Gang Rides Again, released in 1970. Known for its hard rock sound, the song showcases the band’s musical prowess and Joe Walsh’s exceptional guitar skills. Here’s a detailed overview of the song, its components, and its impact:

Song Details

• Artist: James Gang
• Album: James Gang Rides Again
• Release Date: July 1970
• Genre: Hard rock, psychedelic rock
• Length: Originally around 7:04 minutes, though some versions are shorter due to legal issues (explained below)
• Label: ABC Records
• Producer: Bill Szymczyk

Band Members

• Joe Walsh: Guitar, vocals, keyboards
• Dale Peters: Bass guitar, backing vocals
• Jim Fox: Drums, percussion, backing vocals

Composition and Structure

“The Bomber” is notable for its multipart structure, consisting of three distinct sections that highlight the band’s versatility and musical influences. Here’s a breakdown of each part:

1. “Closet Queen”

• Description: The opening section of the song, “Closet Queen,” is driven by Joe Walsh’s powerful guitar riffs and dynamic vocals. It sets the tone with its hard rock energy and catchy hooks.
• Lyrics Theme: The lyrics of “Closet Queen” tell a story of rebellion and nonconformity, typical of rock music themes of the era.

2. “Boléro” (Ravel)

• Description: The middle section features an adaptation of Maurice Ravel’s classical piece “Boléro.” This part showcases the band’s musical range and their ability to integrate classical influences into a rock context.
• Legal Issues: The original release of the song included this segment, but due to copyright issues, some versions of the album omitted this section. It was later restored in some reissues after resolving the rights.

3. “Cast Your Fate to the Wind” (Guaraldi)

• Description: The final part includes a jazz-influenced instrumental section based on Vince Guaraldi’s “Cast Your Fate to the Wind.” This segment further highlights the band’s ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly.
• Musical Interpretation: The instrumental section is marked by Walsh’s expressive guitar work and the band’s tight rhythm section, creating a laid-back, almost psychedelic atmosphere.

Lyrics and Themes

• Overall Theme: “The Bomber” combines themes of defiance, exploration, and musical experimentation. The lyrics, particularly in “Closet Queen,” reflect the band’s rock-and-roll ethos and desire to push boundaries.
• Storytelling: The narrative style of the lyrics is reminiscent of the era’s counterculture movement, addressing themes of personal freedom and the rejection of societal norms.

Impact and Legacy

Critical Reception

• Acclaim: “The Bomber” received positive reviews for its innovative structure and Joe Walsh’s guitar work. Critics praised the song’s ambitious fusion of rock and classical elements.
• Guitar Work: Joe Walsh’s performance on “The Bomber” is often highlighted as one of his finest, showcasing his technical skill and creativity.

Influence

• Musical Innovation: The song’s blend of rock, classical, and jazz elements was ahead of its time, influencing later artists who sought to incorporate diverse genres into their music.
• Legacy: “The Bomber” remains a favorite among fans of classic rock and is considered one of the James Gang’s signature songs.

Album Context

• James Gang Rides Again: The album features a mix of hard rock and acoustic tracks, with “The Bomber” standing out as one of the heavier and more experimental songs. Other notable tracks from the album include “Funk #49” and “Tend My Garden.”

Live Performances

• Concert Favorite: “The Bomber” became a staple in the James Gang’s live performances, often extended to showcase improvisational solos and jam sessions.
• Joe Walsh’s Tours: Even after leaving the James Gang, Joe Walsh continued to perform “The Bomber” during his solo tours, highlighting its enduring popularity.

Trivia

• Recording Technique: The song features complex layering and multi-tracking, particularly in the guitar sections, reflecting the innovative recording techniques of the time.
• Cultural References: The song’s title and themes have been interpreted as a metaphor for the explosive energy and rebellious spirit of the early 1970s rock scene.

Conclusion

“The Bomber” by the James Gang is a classic example of early 1970s rock experimentation. Its unique combination of rock, classical, and jazz elements, along with Joe Walsh’s iconic guitar work, make it a timeless piece in the rock music canon. The song continues to be celebrated for its artistic boldness and enduring influence on the genre.