Boz Scaggs & Band

During the early '70s, when singer/songwriters were in style, Boz Scaggs gave his band equal billing and equal presence on an album that was smooth, soulful, upbeat, and a direct reaction to the laid-back feel of his previous album, Moments. Scaggs’ singing here is best judged on the ballads, and “Love Anyway” features him making all the right decisions, with a performance that builds to a suitable climax. “Nothing Will Take Our Place” takes a midtempo track to the edge with a powerful flute solo. The ensemble sound on “Monkey Time,” “Up to You," and “Flames of Love” balances elements of The Band and veteran juke-jointers, with R&B, funk, and hints of New Orleans circulating throughout. Horns and backup singers expand the sound, but so much still depends on bass, drums, and electric organ and piano, more so than electric guitar. Van Morrison’s His Band & The Street Choir is likely this album's nearest spiritual companion. The bonus-track edition includes an edited mono version of “Runnin’ Blue” and a live, nine-minute rock-jazz improv of “Baby’s Callin’ Me Home.”