Search - Rory Gallagher :: Top Priority

Full of gems

Gator Carter | Newport OR | 07/30/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Beginning with the previous year's "Photo Finish", people often refer to this era of Rory's music as his arena rock period, and in turn received some criticism for it. Though not as diverse in styles as his early albums, "Top Priority" is so full of clever hooks and great riffs, it should be appreciated for what it is and not criticised for what it's not.

"Follow Me" is such a great opening track, a real catchy rocker and adrenaline rush that sets the pace for the remainder of the disc. From there Rory launches off with a collection of some of his best rockers, "Key Chain", "Bad Penny", "Philby", the smoldering blues of "Off the Handle" being the highlights. Also found here is the original version of "Public Enemy #1", another really brilliant gem of a rocker, although I personally love the alternate version found on the "Calling Card" CD even more. The bonus cuts are great too, especially "The Watcher" which features Rory playing some surf-style guitar in the tradition of Dick Dale and includes some rare studio experimentation by Rory on his vocals. It may actually be my favorite cut on the entire CD, such a clever and original rocker. "Hell Cat" is one of those tunes by Rory that often is dismissed as being too conventional. Yes, the tune itself is pretty average as far as chord changes go, but if you're familiar with Rory Gallagher, you know that his approach to any song he ever recorded is passionate and sincere. It's a high charged, revved up rocker and delivered with a conviction and a certain element of surprise that only Rory could give it, whether it be a certain way he'll phrase things in his vocals or in his guitar, you'll never catch him going through the motions. An uncompromising brilliant talent, Rory was. "Top Priority" is one of his best."