15 Cdsl — -extra Quality- Tommy Bolin 1966 1976 Fever Box Set
The beauty of Fever is its chronological audacity. It refuses to separate the sideman from the solo star, instead showing how a 14-year-old garage rocker in Sioux City, Iowa, became the man who replaced both Joe Walsh (in the James Gang) and Ritchie Blackmore (in Deep Purple).
We start with raw, hissy 4-track recordings of The Den', Bolin’s first band. These aren’t for the faint of heart; they are for the obsessed. You hear a teenager wrestling with the blues, mimicking Clapton and Hendrix, but crucially, you hear the legato—that smooth, liquid attack—already forming. The unreleased instrumental “Fever Dream (Take 1)” is a revelation: a 12-minute psychedelic workout that predicts fusion years before Miles Davis crossed over.
Verdict: 4/5 Stars (Essential for the obsessed completist; risky for the casual fan)
The Packaging & Concept Marketed as “Extra Quality,” this heavy-lift box set aims to document every known note Bolin committed to tape, from his teenage garage bands in Sioux City (1966) to his final live shows just weeks before his death in 1976. Spread across 15 CDs, the set is a behemoth—housed in a cardboard clamshell box with rudimentary but functional artwork. Do not expect the glossy booklet of a Dark Side of the Moon box. Expect photocopied images, set lists, and track times. The “Extra Quality” tag usually refers to the CD-R media (gold or premium grade) and improved digital transfers, not the graphic design.
Audio Quality (The Big Caveat) Here’s where you need to calibrate your expectations. This is not a remastered studio catalog.
Content Highlights (15 CDs Broken Down)
The Downsides
Who is this for?
Who should avoid?
Final Verdict The “Extra Quality” Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever Box Set is a flawed, sprawling, unauthorized love letter. It’s the musical equivalent of a hoarder’s attic—chaotic, dusty, but stuffed with treasures. If you have the patience for lo-fi fidelity and a deep hunger to hear Bolin develop from a teenage shredder into a fusion visionary, this set is indispensable. Just know that “Extra Quality” refers to the effort, not the source tapes.
Best track (impossible to pick): CD 4, Track 7 – Zephyr’s “Hard Chargin’ Woman” (alternate mix). Bolin’s solo sounds like lightning in a bottle.
The Legendary Tommy Bolin: A Musical Journey Through His 1966-1976 Era with the Extra Quality Fever Box Set
Tommy Bolin, a name that resonates deeply within the realms of rock and blues music. A guitarist, singer, and songwriter, Bolin's contributions to the music world were tragically cut short, but his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians to this very day. For fans and enthusiasts, the "Extra Quality - Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 Cdsl" is a treasure trove that encapsulates his remarkable journey through the pivotal decade of his career. This article will delve into the significance of this box set, exploring Bolin's musical evolution, his impact on the era, and why this collection is a must-have for any serious music aficionado.
The Rise of a Musical Prodigy
Born on November 1, 1947, in Sioux City, Iowa, Tommy Bolin's musical talents were evident from an early age. By the time he was 15, he was already performing in local bands, showcasing a prodigious skill on the guitar that quickly set him apart. Bolin's early influences were diverse, ranging from rock and roll and R&B to jazz and classical music, a blend that would later define his unique playing style.
The 1966-1976 Era: A Time of Creative Explosion
The period between 1966 and 1976 was a transformative decade for music. The 1960s were a time of revolution and experimentation, with the emergence of psychedelic rock, hard rock, and blues-rock. By the 1970s, these genres had evolved, giving birth to arena rock, progressive rock, and the further diversification of rock music. It was within this vibrant and dynamic context that Tommy Bolin made his mark.
Bolin's Musical Journey
Bolin's career during this period was marked by significant milestones. He was a founding member of the hard rock band Zephyr, which gained popularity in the early 1970s with hits like "Rock and Roll" and "Magic Carpet Ride." His tenure with Zephyr, though relatively short, was incredibly productive. Bolin's guitar work and vocals were central to the band's sound, earning them a loyal following.
In addition to his work with Zephyr, Bolin also pursued a solo career, releasing several albums that showcased his versatility as a musician. His solo work allowed him to explore different musical styles, from rock and blues to jazz fusion. This experimentation was a hallmark of Bolin's approach to music, reflecting his diverse influences and interests.
The Extra Quality Fever Box Set: A Comprehensive Collection
The "Extra Quality - Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 Cdsl" offers an unparalleled look into Bolin's creative output during this pivotal decade. This comprehensive collection includes 15 CDs, featuring rare studio and live recordings, demos, and collaborations with other artists. It's a meticulously curated set that spans Bolin's early days with local bands, his rise to fame with Zephyr, and his solo projects.
Why This Box Set Matters
For fans of Tommy Bolin and 1970s rock music, this box set is a treasure trove. It provides a detailed insight into Bolin's artistic evolution, showcasing his guitar playing, vocal abilities, and songwriting skills. The set includes:
Conclusion
The "Extra Quality - Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 Cdsl" is more than just a collection of CDs; it's a musical journey through a critical period in rock history. For fans of Tommy Bolin, it offers a deeper understanding of his genius and contributions to music. For collectors, it presents a rare opportunity to own a comprehensive archive of Bolin's work. And for new listeners, it serves as an introduction to one of rock's unsung heroes.
Tommy Bolin's legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans. This box set not only celebrates his achievements but also ensures that his music remains accessible and appreciated. In the context of his era and the broader landscape of rock music, Bolin's work holds up remarkably well, a testament to his enduring talent and vision.
Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 CDs: A Comprehensive Collection of a Guitar Legend
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 CDs" is a monumental compilation of the works of Tommy Bolin, a legendary guitarist, singer, and songwriter who left an indelible mark on the music world. This extensive box set is a must-have for fans of rock, blues, and jazz, offering a thorough exploration of Bolin's remarkable career.
The Life and Legacy of Tommy Bolin
Born on November 1, 1947, in Sioux City, Iowa, Tommy Bolin began playing guitar at a young age. He quickly developed a unique style that blended elements of rock, blues, jazz, and classical music. Bolin's exceptional skill and innovative approach to the guitar earned him recognition and admiration from his peers and fans alike.
Bolin's career took off in the 1960s, performing with various bands, including the Preston Playboys and the Soul Brothers. In 1975, he joined the jazz-rock fusion band, Mahavishnu Orchestra, and later formed his own group, Tommy Bolin Band. Throughout his career, Bolin collaborated with numerous renowned artists, such as Zeep, Liza, and Danny Seraphine.
The Fever Box Set: A Comprehensive Collection
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 CDs" is an exhaustive collection of Bolin's work, featuring 15 CDs with meticulously remastered audio. This comprehensive box set spans a decade of Bolin's career, from his early days as a teenager to his untimely passing in 1976. -Extra Quality- Tommy Bolin 1966 1976 Fever Box Set 15 Cdsl
The set includes:
Key Tracks and Highlights
The box set features a vast array of tracks, including:
Technical Specifications and Packaging
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 CDs" boasts impeccable packaging, with:
Conclusion
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 CDs" is a landmark collection that celebrates the life and legacy of a guitar legend. This comprehensive box set offers an unparalleled look into Bolin's remarkable career, showcasing his innovative approach to music and his enduring influence on the rock, blues, and jazz genres. For fans of Tommy Bolin and music enthusiasts alike, this box set is an essential addition to any music library.
Please note: While the official title of the 15-disc anthology is typically stylized as "Fever: 1966–1976", the content below covers the comprehensive "Extra Quality" limited edition box set that covers his entire career trajectory.
The Tommy Bolin 1966 1976 Fever Box Set 15 Cdsl (-Extra Quality-) is not merely a product; it is a time machine. It walks you through the evolution of a guitarist who could play Albert King blues at 16, fusion at 20, arena rock at 24, and heartbreakingly introspective jazz-funk at 25.
In a digital age where we stream compressed versions of the same 12 songs, this box demands you sit down, read the liner notes, and listen to the dust on the tapes. It preserves the "fever" of a man who lived and breathed music every single hour of that decade.
If you find a copy, do not hesitate. Rumor has it that due to ongoing estate disputes, this specific 15-CD configuration will never be repressed. It is the final, exhaustive word on one of rock’s most under-sung heroes.
Final Verdict: 10/10. A monument to what a box set should be: complete, uncompromising, and absolutely heartbreaking.
Have you owned a copy of the Tommy Bolin Fever Box? Share your pressing details (CD matrix numbers, discog links) in the comments below. Beware of counterfeit "Extra Quality" labels—check the IFPI codes.
The Tommy Bolin – Fever (1966–1976) box set is a comprehensive 15-CD limited edition collection that serves as a definitive historical retrospective of the guitarist's decade-long career. Released through the Official Tommy Bolin Fan Club in Sioux City, Iowa, it captures Bolin's evolution from his earliest local recordings to his final performance before his death in 1976. Key Features & Content Highlights
Massive 15-CD Scope: Contains roughly a decade's worth of studio tracks, live performances, rehearsals, and rare demos across 15 discs. Historical Rarities:
Early Beginnings (1966): Features his first band, A Patch of Blue, and their recordings from Correctionville, IA.
The "Energy" Era: Dedicated discs for Energy (1971–1972) sessions, including Summit Studios and Jackson demos.
Solo Demos: Includes extensive acoustic and studio demos for his solo albums, Teaser and Private Eyes. Live Performances & Jams:
Rare live sets with Zephyr (1970–1973) and James Gang (Live DKRC 1974).
Legendary jam sessions with Jeff Beck, Jan Hammer, Billy Cobham, and the Good Rats.
Highlights from the Tommy Bolin Band at Ebbets Field (1974/1976) and Long Island (1976).
The Final Recording: Includes the last show Bolin played at the Jai-Alai Fronton in Miami on December 3, 1976, just hours before his passing.
Exclusive Media: Features various interview segments and rehearsals (like the 1975 "Cucumber Jam") providing insight into his creative process. Product Specifications Label Nightlife / Official Tommy Bolin Fan Club Format 15 x CD Box Set, Limited Edition Price
Originally listed around $180.00 to $500.00 depending on the vendor Rarity
Considered "very hard to find"; often sold in partial sets or through specialist archives like Crimson Records or RZ Record. Tommy Bolin - Discography - The Highway Star
The Tommy Bolin "Fever" (1966–1976) Box Set is a comprehensive 15-CD collection that traces the meteoric rise and tragic end of one of rock’s most versatile guitar virtuosos. Spanning a decade of work, this "Extra Quality" set serves as a deep-dive archive for fans and historians, covering his early days in Sioux City to his final performances in Miami. A Decade of Evolution: CD Breakdown
The set is chronologically structured to showcase Bolin’s fluidity across rock, jazz fusion, and blues.
The Early Years (CD 1): Features A Patch of Blue recordings from 1966 in Correctionville, IA, including rare covers like "Midnight Hour" and "Sweet Soul Music," plus a 15-minute "Beatles Jam".
The Zephyr Era (CDs 2, 7–8): Captures Bolin’s first major act with live recordings from 1970–1973, featuring tracks like "Sail On" and "Hard Chargin' Woman" from venues like Montana Gardens and Tulagi’s in Boulder.
Fusion & Jams (CDs 3–6): Deep dives into his jazz-rock period, including the Energy sessions at Summit Studios (1972) and rare jams with legendary drummers like Billy Cobham and Alphonse Mouzon.
The James Gang & Friends (CDs 9–10): Includes live sets from the James Gang and various "Tommy Bolin & Friends" sessions at Ebbets Field (1974), highlighted by performances of "Stratus" and "Honey Man".
The Solo Mastery (CDs 11–13): Features acoustic demos and studio outtakes from his seminal solo albums, Teaser and Private Eyes, including early versions of "Wild Dogs" and "Post Toastee".
The Final Notes (CDs 14–15): Documents his last performances in late 1976 with the Deep Purple Mk IV lineup and the Tommy Bolin Band, including the DVC Jam in Sioux City just weeks before his death. Why It’s Essential The beauty of Fever is its chronological audacity
For collectors, this set is prized for its unreleased material. While official studio releases like the Teaser 40th Anniversary or The Ultimate Redux offer polished highlights, the Fever box set provides raw, unfiltered access to Bolin’s improvisational genius. Reviewers often note that Bolin was a "legitimate heir" to Jimi Hendrix, capable of matching the speed of John McLaughlin while maintaining a melodic, soulful touch. Product Verification
Versions of this box set are often cataloged as limited or unofficial releases, sometimes appearing as MP3-CD sets or multi-disc imports on sites like Discogs and eBay.
Tommy Bolin – Fever – CD (Box Set, Album, Limited ... - Discogs
The Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever box set is a legendary, ultra-rare 15-CD collection that serves as a definitive chronological archive of the short but incredibly prolific career of guitarist Tommy Bolin. Originally released in Japan in 1995 and limited to only 500 copies, this set originally sold for approximately $500. It provides an unparalleled deep dive into Bolin's evolution, from his teenage years in Sioux City to his final performance just hours before his death in December 1976. An Evolutionary Archive
The box set is meticulously structured to follow Bolin’s artistic journey through several distinct phases:
The Early Years (1966–1971): The collection opens with tracks from Bolin's first band, Patch of Blue, including 1966 recordings from Iowa. It transitions into his work with the blues-rock outfit Zephyr, featuring live performances from Boulder and Denver.
Fusion and Energy (1971–1973): Discs 2 through 6 cover his highly creative period with Energy, a jazz-fusion group that never released a studio album during its lifetime but is immortalized here through demos and live sessions from New York and Denver.
The Big Stage (1973–1976): The set archives his transition to international fame, including live recordings with the James Gang and various acoustic and studio demos for his solo masterpieces, Teaser and Private Eyes.
The Final Act (1976): The later discs contain rehearsals and live sets with the Tommy Bolin Band, notably including recordings from the King Biscuit Flower Hour and his final show at the Miami Jai-Alai Fronton on December 3, 1976. Rare and Unique Content
Beyond standard songs, the set is prized for its "extra quality" archival material:
Historical Jams: Features rare collaborations such as a Jeff Beck Jam and recordings with flutist Jeremy Steig and drummer Billy Cobham.
Candid Moments: Includes multiple interview segments recorded throughout his career, including one conducted just three months before his passing.
Demos & Outtakes: Provides a look behind the curtain with raw acoustic demos for tracks like "Wild Dogs" and "Dreamer".
While much of this material has since been released in individual volumes by the Tommy Bolin Archives, the original Fever box set remains the "holy grail" for collectors due to its comprehensive nature and extreme scarcity.
Tommy Bolin – Fever – CD (Box Set, Album, Limited ... - Discogs
The Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever Box Set is a legendary, exhaustive collection designed for the ultimate devotee of the late guitar virtuoso. Spanning his entire career—from his teenage years in Iowa to his final days in Miami—this 15-CD collection serves as a comprehensive sonic biography of a musician who seamlessly blended rock, jazz fusion, and blues. Overview of the "Fever" Box Set
This massive set is often categorized as a "promotional" or "unofficial" boutique release. While a limited edition of 500 copies was originally released in Japan in 1995, various versions have surfaced over the years to cater to the demand of high-fidelity collectors. Format: 15 Compact Discs.
Era Covered: 1966 to 1976, documenting his evolution from a local garage band member to a global rock star.
Audio Quality: Often labeled as "Extra Quality" or "Original Silver Printing," these sets prioritize high-fidelity transfers of rare reels, some of which were later officially released by the Tommy Bolin Archives. Content Highlights Across the 15 Discs
The strength of the "Fever" set lies in its depth, featuring hours of rehearsals, jams, and live performances that never made it to his primary studio albums. Early Years and Patch of Blue (1966)
Disc 1: Contains the earliest known professional recordings of Bolin with his band Patch of Blue in Correctionville, IA. It features rare covers like "It's Not Unusual" and "Sweet Soul Music," plus a 14-minute "Beatles Jam" with Dave Brown and Tim Weisburg. The Fusion & Zephyr Era (1969–1971)
Discs 2–3: Focus on Bolin’s work with Zephyr (live at Montana Gardens) and a series of experimental jazz-fusion jams in New York City with icons like Billy Cobham, Jan Hammer, and Jeremy Steig.
Disc 4: Highlights "Bolin Solo Electric Jams" and "Sheldon Jams," showcasing his improvisational freedom before joining established acts. Tommy Bolin - Discogs
The Tommy Bolin "Fever" 15-CD Box Set is a comprehensive, limited-edition collection released in 2009 that archives the short but prolific career of American guitarist Tommy Bolin. It spans from his earliest recordings in 1966 to his final year in 1976, featuring a mix of live performances, studio demos, and rare jams. Box Set Overview
This collection is highly sought after by collectors for its extensive coverage of Bolin's transitions between genres like hard rock, jazz fusion, and blues. Release Date: 2009. Format: 15 Compact Discs in a limited edition box.
Content Scope: 1966–1976, covering his work with Patch of Blue, Zephyr, Energy, and various solo and session projects. Key Disc Highlights
The set is organized chronologically to follow Bolin's musical evolution: Disc 1: Early Beginnings (1966)
Features Patch of Blue recordings from Correctionville, IA, including rare Beatles-style jams. Discs 2–3: Jazz-Fusion Era (1971)
Recordings of the Bolin/Steig/Hammer/Cobham/Gomez sessions in New York City, showcasing his entry into high-level jazz fusion. Discs 4–6: The Energy Years (1972)
Extensive material from Bolin's band Energy, including the Summit Studios sessions in Denver and the Jackson Demos. Later Discs: Solo and Rare Sessions
Includes demos for Tim Goodman (1973), rehearsals, and various live electric jams. Guide for Collectors
Authenticity: Ensure the set is the original 2009 release by checking for the Crimson Records or Discogs listings for specific matrix numbers.
Sound Quality: As much of this material is sourced from archives, sound quality varies from professional studio demos to raw audience and FM radio recordings. Content Highlights (15 CDs Broken Down)
Availability: This is a limited-edition release and is often out of print. It typically surfaces on secondary markets like Discogs or eBay.
Tommy Bolin – Fever – CD (Box Set, Album, Limited ... - Discogs
Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 CDs: A Musical Treasure Trove
For guitar enthusiasts and fans of classic rock, blues, and jazz, the "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is a dream come true. This comprehensive 15-CD collection is a meticulously curated tribute to the life and work of Tommy Bolin, a legendary guitarist, singer, and songwriter who left an indelible mark on the music world during his tragically short career.
The Life and Legacy of Tommy Bolin
Thomas Robert Bolin (1942-1976) was an American musician who played with a range of notable bands and artists, including The Spencer Davis Group, Deep Purple, and Zephyr. His eclectic style, which blended elements of rock, blues, jazz, and folk, captivated audiences and inspired fellow musicians. Bolin's innovative and influential guitar playing, coupled with his distinctive vocals and songwriting skills, made him a beloved figure in the music scene.
The Box Set: A Comprehensive Collection
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is a veritable treasure trove of Bolin's musical output, featuring 15 CDs that showcase his remarkable body of work. This expansive collection includes:
The set covers Bolin's entire career, from his early days with The Spencer Davis Group to his time with Deep Purple and Zephyr, as well as his solo work. This comprehensive collection allows fans to experience Bolin's artistic evolution and appreciate the incredible range of his musical talents.
Highlights of the Box Set
Some of the highlights of the "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" include:
A Must-Have for Music Enthusiasts
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is an essential collection for anyone who loves classic rock, blues, jazz, or guitar-driven music. This meticulously curated box set is a fitting tribute to Bolin's enduring legacy and a testament to his innovative spirit. If you're a fan of Tommy Bolin or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, this 15-CD collection is a must-have.
Get Ready to Immerse Yourself in Bolin's Musical World
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the incredible music of a guitar legend. With its unparalleled scope and exceptional sound quality, this collection is sure to delight both casual listeners and die-hard fans. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the musical world of Tommy Bolin and discover why he remains one of the most beloved and respected musicians of all time.
Tommy Bolin – Fever 15-CD box set is a comprehensive archival release documenting the career of the legendary guitarist from his early days in Iowa to his final performances in 1976. Produced by Nightlife and released in a limited edition cardboard sleeve format, this set is a holy grail for collectors of rare jams, demos, and live recordings. Box Set Overview Total Discs Era Covered : 1966–1976, spanning his work with Patch of Blue James Gang Deep Purple , and his solo bands.
: CD box set featuring cardboard sleeves and rare archival audio. Detailed Disc Breakdown
The set organizes Bolin’s history chronologically and by session type, including several previously unreleased live takes and studio rehearsals. Era / Session Focus Key Highlights Patch Of Blue (1966)
Early soul and rock covers like "Midnight Hour" and "My Girl". Zephyr (1970) Live at Montana Gardens; includes "Hard Chargin' Woman". Jazz Fusion Jams (1971)
Extended NYC sessions with Jan Hammer, Billy Cobham, and Jeremy Steig. Energy (1972)
Summit Studios recordings and Jackson Demos; featuring "Dreamer" and "Lady Luck". Zephyr (1973)
Reunion jams and live sets from Art's Bar & Grill in Boulder. Ebbets Field (1974)
Iconic live performances of "Stratus" and "Honey Man" with special guests. Acoustic Demos Raw versions of "Teaser," "Wild Dogs," and "Slowdriver". Final Jams (1976)
Rare DVC Jam in Sioux City and a 22-minute "Blues Jam" in Miami just before his death. Teaser/Private Eyes Demos
Studio outtakes including "Crazed Fandango" and "Marching Power". Tommy Bolin Band (1976)
Comprehensive live sets from Long Island and Albany during his final tour. Collector's Notes
Tommy Bolin – Fever – CD (Box Set, Album, Limited ... - Discogs
Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever Box Set a massive 15-CD bootleg collection that attempts to document the full, short-lived career of the legendary American guitarist who played with The James Gang Deep Purple Content and Quality
While the set is often marketed as "Extra Quality," collectors generally describe it as a rough historical document rather than a high-fidelity listening experience. Audio Quality:
Much of the material consists of rare demos and live recordings that suffer from poor sound quality, particularly on the early discs. Discs 1–15:
The set covers Bolin’s evolution from his earliest garage bands like Patch of Blue to his high-profile solo years. is identical to the release Patch Of Blue (Birth Of A Legend) , capturing Bolin's early work in the mid-to-late 1960s.
The collection spans his entire timeline until his death in December 1976. Production Errors:
As a bootleg, the set is known for numerous typos and factual errors in its liner notes, such as misspelling "Hammond Organ" and misidentifying his younger brother Johnnie as his early mentor. Key Career Milestones Covered
The box set serves as an unofficial companion to his mainstream discography, which includes: His early psychedelic rock breakthrough (1969–1971). Fusion Era: Notable work on Billy Cobham's and Alphonse Mouzon's Mind Transplant The James Gang: Deep Purple: Replacing Ritchie Blackmore for the album Come Taste the Band Solo Work: His two definitive solo albums, (1975) and Private Eyes Collecting vs. Listening
Many box sets slap a sticker that says "Remastered" and call it a day. Fever goes to war for Bolin’s legacy.