“Sons Of Champlin Live” was recorded on January 24, 1998, at The Luther Burbank Center For The Arts in Santa Rosa, California… which is the same venue that I was privileged to see, hear, and experience my first Sons of Champlin concert on New Year’s Eve later that year. As a fairly new Sons of Champlin fan, having been introduced to their music in 1995 by a friend, I was blown away. What a treat!

“Sons Of Champlin Live” is one of the best live recordings I’ve ever had the pleasure of hearing. It’s the next best thing to being there. Bill Champlin’s vocals prove that he is one of the greatest blue-eyed soul singers ever, and his Hammond B3 organ is amazing, as is his guitar. Terry Haggerty’s blistering guitar solos and intricate rhythm work is absolutely incredible. Tom Saviano and Mic Gillette are one of the tightest, funkiest horn duos ever. Geoff Palmer is without a doubt a master on vibes, as well as a monster on keyboards. And the groove is anchored by the very talented rhythm section of James Preston and David Schallock. These guys are exceptional musicians and they really know how to cook.

I’d have a hard time picking a single favorite song on this CD. Every one is great, from the opening cut, “Fat City”, to the final song, “Hold On”. “Time Will Bring You Love” is the only ballad, and it’s one of my favorites, as well as “Follow Your Heart”, which I fell in love with the first time I heard it. Of course, “1982-A”, “Rooftop”, and “No Mo’” are favorites too.

I’ve purchased at least half a dozen copies of this CD and have given all but one of them to friends, young and old, who have become Sons of Champlin fans too. I’ve never become tired of listening to this wonderful CD.

Do yourself a favor and buy a copy for yourself. You’ll be glad you did.