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Music review: Gregg Rolie – ‘Sonic Ranch’

By Clint Rhodes for The 2 min read
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Music review: Gregg Rolie - ‘Sonic Ranch’
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Rhodes

A multiple inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of two iconic bands, Gregg Rolie certainly has impacted the music scene over the last 50 years as a founding member of Santana and Journey and as a touring member of Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band.

Rolie’s distinctive voice added depth and passion to Santana classics like “Evil Ways,” “Oye Como Va” and “Black Magic Woman.”

As the featured vocalist on Journey’s first three albums, Rolie shared the microphone with Steve Perry on the band’s fourth effort. “Infinity” would prove to be Journey’s breakout release and feature Rolie and Perry together on “Feeling That Way” and “Anytime,” making the 1978 offering my favorite Journey album.

I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Rolie perform with Journey for a show at the Stanley Theater (now the Benedum Center) in 1979 and with Ringo Starr at Heinz Hall in 2015.

In addition to his band work, Rolie has delivered a fruitful solo career since his self-titled release in 1985.

With “Sonic Ranch,” the 72-year-old singer-songwriter and keyboardist releases his first full-length solo album in 18 years.

Rolie’s soulful voice sounds as strong as ever on the album’s opening number. “Give Me Tomorrow” features the fine guitar work of Toto’s Steve Lukather, giving the track a vintage Journey vibe.

The album’s first single, “What About Love,” is a stirring number inspired by Ringo Starr’s familiar message of peace and love with Rolie encouraging everyone to combat fear and hate through the universal spreading of love.

Neal Schon, Rolie’s former bandmate with Santana and Journey, makes a guest appearance on the ballad “Breaking My Heart” and the bluesy track “Lift Me Up.”

The new album also includes a fresh version of “Look Into the Future.” The arrangement written by Rolie, Schon and Diane Valory originally appeared on Journey’s 1976 sophomore release.

Other highlights include a gospel-infused cover of Elvis Presley’s “Don’t Be Cruel” and the sentimental offering “That’s the Way It Goes.”

With “Sonic Ranch,” Rolie appears to still be on a roll with no signs of slowing down his diverse musical journey.

Clint Rhodes is the Herald-Standard music reviewer. He can be reached at clinton43@me.com.

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