The quartet of Rory Gallagher, Gerry McAvoy, Lou Martin, and Rod de'Ath released the stunning Calling Card in 1976, produced by none other than Deep Purple's Roger Glover. Despite the fact that it remains one of the strongest releases from this version of Gallagher's solo band, Rory split this incarnation up shortly after its release and regrouped with a new line-up. Eagle Rock has kindly given Calling Card a charming reissue treatment here, perfect for those discovering this classic blues-rock album for the first time.
Actually, Calling Card might just be one of Gallagher's hardest rocking albums in his lengthy discography. Blistering guitar led rockers such as "Do You Read Me", "Secret Agent",and "Moonchild" mix well with the bluesy "Calling Card", the more jazz based numbers "Jack Knife Beat" and "Edged in Blue", and the two rollicking country rock based "Country Mile" and "Barley & Grape Rag". Gallagher throws everything at you but the kitchen sink, including ripping slide guitar, distorted blues rock leads, acoustic countryfied finger pickin', sinewy jazz, and Peter Green inspired blues. Vocally, he's spot on as well, tugging at the listener with his soulful singing just as much as his searing guitar licks grab you and take you prisoner.
Honestly, Calling Card features one classic track after another, each one highly memorable and filled with spectacular musical performances. Kudos once again to Eagle Rock for their wonderful batch of Rory Gallagher reissues, as their mission to make sure that the genius of the late, great guitarist is not forgotten.
Track Listing
1. Do You Read Me 5:20
2. Country Mile 3:18
3. Moonchild 4:47
4. Calling Card 5:24
5. I'll Admit You're Gone 4:25
6. Secret Agent 5:45
7. Jack Knife Beat 7:04
8. Edged In Blue 5:31
9. Barley & Grape Rag 3:39
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