-extra Quality- Tommy Bolin 1966 1976 Fever — Box Set 15 Cdsl
Before James Gang, Bolin co-founded the psychedelic/jazz-rock band Zephyr. Discs 4 and 5 contain outtakes from the first two Zephyr albums plus scorching live sets from the Fillmore West. Disc 6 showcases the short-lived "Energy," a power trio that acted as the literal bridge to his solo career.
This is where the "Extra Quality" remastering earns its price tag. Billy Cobham’s Spectrum (1973) is represented not just by the final mix, but by the isolated guitar stems. Listening to “Stratus” without the horns or drums reveals Bolin’s right-hand picking technique: a percussive, almost flamenco-style attack that turned his Les Paul into a drum kit.
These discs also include the legendary Energy sessions with drummer Narada Michael Walden. The alternate take of “The Grind” features a guitar solo so fast and clean that the producers had to slow the tape down to verify it was human.
These discs are archaeological treasures. You get unpolished, embryonic Bolin playing with bands like "Denny & The Triumphs" and "American Standard." The "-Extra Quality-" mastering here is a godsend; original acetates of 16-year-old Bolin wailing on a Fender Jaguar are usually unlistenable. This set clarifies the pick attack and harmonic ambition that foreshadowed his fusion work.
You need this box set if:
You might skip it if:
Verdict: 4/5 Stars (Essential for the obsessed completist; risky for the casual fan)
The Packaging & Concept Marketed as “Extra Quality,” this heavy-lift box set aims to document every known note Bolin committed to tape, from his teenage garage bands in Sioux City (1966) to his final live shows just weeks before his death in 1976. Spread across 15 CDs, the set is a behemoth—housed in a cardboard clamshell box with rudimentary but functional artwork. Do not expect the glossy booklet of a Dark Side of the Moon box. Expect photocopied images, set lists, and track times. The “Extra Quality” tag usually refers to the CD-R media (gold or premium grade) and improved digital transfers, not the graphic design.
Audio Quality (The Big Caveat) Here’s where you need to calibrate your expectations. This is not a remastered studio catalog.
Content Highlights (15 CDs Broken Down)
The Downsides
Who is this for?
Who should avoid?
Final Verdict The “Extra Quality” Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever Box Set is a flawed, sprawling, unauthorized love letter. It’s the musical equivalent of a hoarder’s attic—chaotic, dusty, but stuffed with treasures. If you have the patience for lo-fi fidelity and a deep hunger to hear Bolin develop from a teenage shredder into a fusion visionary, this set is indispensable. Just know that “Extra Quality” refers to the effort, not the source tapes.
Best track (impossible to pick): CD 4, Track 7 – Zephyr’s “Hard Chargin’ Woman” (alternate mix). Bolin’s solo sounds like lightning in a bottle.
The Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever Box Set is a legendary 15-CD collection that serves as the definitive, albeit unofficial, auditory map of Bolin’s meteoric and tragic decade-long career. Released in Japan in 1995 and limited to just 500 copies, this set originally retailed for roughly $500. It is highly sought after by collectors for its rare silver-pressed CDs and exhaustive curation of live performances, studio outtakes, and intimate demos. The Evolution of a Guitar Prodigy
The box set meticulously tracks Bolin’s journey from a teenage garage-band guitarist to a global rock icon.
The Early Years (1966): CD 1 features recordings from Patch of Blue, a band Bolin joined at just 15 years old in Correctionville, Iowa. These tracks, including a lengthy "Beatles Jam," showcase his raw, precocious talent before he moved to Colorado.
The Fusion Foundation: The set includes rare sessions with jazz luminaries like Jeremy Steig, Jan Hammer, and Billy Cobham from 1971. These recordings bridge the gap between his blues-rock beginnings and the sophisticated jazz-fusion style that would later define albums like Billy Cobham's Spectrum.
Zephyr and Energy: Multiple discs (CDs 2, 7, and 8) cover Bolin’s time with Zephyr, including live sets from Boulder and Montana. Extensive coverage is also given to Energy (CDs 4–6), the jazz-rock fusion group Bolin formed in 1972, featuring essential recordings from Summit Studios. Highlights of the 15-CD Tracklist
While many tracks from this set were later released through the official Tommy Bolin Archives, the "Fever" set remains unique for its cohesive presentation.
CD 9 & 10: Features James Gang live recordings and the legendary "Ebbets Field" sessions with friends from June 1974.
CD 11: Focuses on acoustic demos and a live performance at the Palace Theatre in Albany, NY, just months before his death.
CD 12 & 13: These discs contain rare jams from 1976, including sessions at the Jet Bar in Sioux City and deep dives into Teaser and Private Eyes demos. -Extra Quality- Tommy Bolin 1966 1976 Fever Box Set 15 Cdsl
CD 14 & 15: Concludes with high-energy live performances from the Tommy Bolin Band in Long Island and Miami, capturing his final professional moments in December 1976. Legacy and Rarity
The "Fever" box set is often considered "extra quality" due to its original silver-printing and historical importance. For many fans, it represents the most complete "warts and all" archive of a musician who influenced everyone from Joe Bonamassa to Mötley Crüe.
Because of its limited 500-copy run, full sets rarely appear on the market. Individual discs or incomplete sets occasionally surface on resale platforms like eBay, where even partial collections command significant attention from the "Bolin-phile" community. Tommy Bolin – Fever - Discogs
Table_title: Tracklist Table_content: header: | | | Fever Disk 1 | | row: | : | : | Fever Disk 1: Patch Of Blue - Correctionville,
Tommy Bolin Fever CD Set 13 of the 15 Very Hard to Find Discs!
The Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 "Fever" Box Set is an expansive, 15-CD collection that serves as an all-encompassing retrospective of the late guitarist's career. Originally released in Japan in 1995 and limited to only 500 copies, the set initially sold for approximately $500. Box Set Overview
CDs: 15 Discs (though sometimes referred to as an 11-CD bootleg set in some catalogs, the definitive "Fever" box contains 15).
Scope: Covers Bolin's entire active period from his early days in 1966 to his final year in 1976. Label: Published by Miller Music (Japan) and Nightlife.
Availability: Extremely rare; today, it is primarily found through collector sites like Discogs or eBay. Key Musical Highlights
The set features a mix of studio tracks, live performances, and rare rehearsals across various projects:
Disc 1 (Early Years): Includes Bolin’s first recordings with A Patch of Blue from 1966 and a 14-minute "Beatles Jam" with Tim Weisberg.
Discs 2–3: Focus on Zephyr (live at Montana Gardens, 1970) and a jazz-fusion jam with Jeremy Steig and Jan Hammer in New York City (1971).
Discs 4–6: Highlight the Energy sessions from 1972, including radio broadcasts and demos from Boulder and Jackson.
Discs 7–10: Feature live recordings from venues like Tulagi's and Ebbets Field, as well as demos with Tim Goodman and early rehearsals for his final band.
Later Discs: Transition into his work with the James Gang, Deep Purple, and his solo career (the Teaser and Private Eyes eras). Legacy & Quality
While "Fever" is technically considered an unofficial or bootleg release, it is highly prized for compiling nearly every significant reel Bolin left behind. Since its release, much of this material has been officially remastered and reissued in smaller volumes by the Tommy Bolin Memorial Fund and the Tommy Bolin Archives.
Tommy Bolin – Fever – CD (Box Set, Album, Limited ... - Discogs
Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set 15 CDs: A Musical Treasure Trove
For guitar enthusiasts and fans of classic rock, blues, and jazz, the "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is a dream come true. This comprehensive 15-CD collection is a meticulously curated tribute to the life and work of Tommy Bolin, a legendary guitarist, singer, and songwriter who left an indelible mark on the music world during his tragically short career.
The Life and Legacy of Tommy Bolin
Thomas Robert Bolin (1942-1976) was an American musician who played with a range of notable bands and artists, including The Spencer Davis Group, Deep Purple, and Zephyr. His eclectic style, which blended elements of rock, blues, jazz, and folk, captivated audiences and inspired fellow musicians. Bolin's innovative and influential guitar playing, coupled with his distinctive vocals and songwriting skills, made him a beloved figure in the music scene.
The Box Set: A Comprehensive Collection
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is a veritable treasure trove of Bolin's musical output, featuring 15 CDs that showcase his remarkable body of work. This expansive collection includes: You might skip it if:
The set covers Bolin's entire career, from his early days with The Spencer Davis Group to his time with Deep Purple and Zephyr, as well as his solo work. This comprehensive collection allows fans to experience Bolin's artistic evolution and appreciate the incredible range of his musical talents.
Highlights of the Box Set
Some of the highlights of the "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" include:
A Must-Have for Music Enthusiasts
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is an essential collection for anyone who loves classic rock, blues, jazz, or guitar-driven music. This meticulously curated box set is a fitting tribute to Bolin's enduring legacy and a testament to his innovative spirit. If you're a fan of Tommy Bolin or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, this 15-CD collection is a must-have.
Get Ready to Immerse Yourself in Bolin's Musical World
The "Tommy Bolin 1966-1976 Fever Box Set" is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the incredible music of a guitar legend. With its unparalleled scope and exceptional sound quality, this collection is sure to delight both casual listeners and die-hard fans. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the musical world of Tommy Bolin and discover why he remains one of the most beloved and respected musicians of all time.
The Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever Box Set is a legendary, exhaustive collection designed for the ultimate devotee of the late guitar virtuoso. Spanning his entire career—from his teenage years in Iowa to his final days in Miami—this 15-CD collection serves as a comprehensive sonic biography of a musician who seamlessly blended rock, jazz fusion, and blues. Overview of the "Fever" Box Set
This massive set is often categorized as a "promotional" or "unofficial" boutique release. While a limited edition of 500 copies was originally released in Japan in 1995, various versions have surfaced over the years to cater to the demand of high-fidelity collectors. Format: 15 Compact Discs.
Era Covered: 1966 to 1976, documenting his evolution from a local garage band member to a global rock star.
Audio Quality: Often labeled as "Extra Quality" or "Original Silver Printing," these sets prioritize high-fidelity transfers of rare reels, some of which were later officially released by the Tommy Bolin Archives. Content Highlights Across the 15 Discs
The strength of the "Fever" set lies in its depth, featuring hours of rehearsals, jams, and live performances that never made it to his primary studio albums. Early Years and Patch of Blue (1966)
Disc 1: Contains the earliest known professional recordings of Bolin with his band Patch of Blue in Correctionville, IA. It features rare covers like "It's Not Unusual" and "Sweet Soul Music," plus a 14-minute "Beatles Jam" with Dave Brown and Tim Weisburg. The Fusion & Zephyr Era (1969–1971)
Discs 2–3: Focus on Bolin’s work with Zephyr (live at Montana Gardens) and a series of experimental jazz-fusion jams in New York City with icons like Billy Cobham, Jan Hammer, and Jeremy Steig.
Disc 4: Highlights "Bolin Solo Electric Jams" and "Sheldon Jams," showcasing his improvisational freedom before joining established acts. Tommy Bolin - Discogs
The year is 2004, and a dusty storage unit in Denver has just been cracked open. Inside, beneath a moth-eaten stage cape, sits a heavy, unlabeled flight case. This isn't just gear; it’s the "Fever" archive—the sonic DNA of Tommy Bolin, the "Archangel of the Stratocaster."
The story of this 15-CD box set is a decade-long odyssey captured in magnetism and wire. The Spark (1966–1968)
The first few discs crackle with the raw energy of a teenager in Sioux City. You hear a 15-year-old Tommy in The Denny & The Triumphs, his fingers already moving faster than his peers. It’s the sound of a kid discovering that he can make a guitar scream before he’s even old enough to drive. The Fusion Pioneer (1969–1973)
The middle discs shift into high fidelity. You’re in the room for the Zephyr rehearsals, where Tommy blends blues with a terrifyingly sophisticated jazz fusion. These discs track his meteoric rise—the moment Billy Cobham tapped him for Spectrum, the album that would change jazz-rock forever. You hear outtakes where Tommy’s improvisations go so far off the map they loop back into the future. The Deep Purple Storm (1975)
The box set grows heavy with the weight of expectation. It’s 1975, and Tommy is stepping into Ritchie Blackmore's shoes in Deep Purple. The "Fever" collection captures the frantic, cocaine-fueled energy of the Come Taste the Band sessions. There are whispered conversations between tracks, the sound of a band trying to reinvent itself around a guitar player who played like he was on fire. The Final Fade (1976)
The last discs are haunting. They cover his solo work and the final tour opening for Jeff Beck. The "Extra Quality" remastering brings his voice—vulnerable and soulful—to the forefront. The final tracks are a "fever" in the literal sense: the sweat and brilliance of a man who knew his time was short.
When the 15th disc spins to a stop, the silence feels heavy. It’s the complete map of a shooting star that burned out at 25, leaving behind enough lightning to fill fifteen lifetimes.
Should we look into the specific tracklist or the current availability of this legendary box set? Verdict: 4/5 Stars (Essential for the obsessed completist;
The story of the Tommy Bolin 1966–1976 Fever Box Set is a deep dive into the archives of a guitar prodigy whose career burned bright and fast. Spanning 15 CDs, this massive collection traces the evolution of Bolin from a teenage blues-rocker in Iowa to a global rock star. The Evolution of a Virtuoso The set begins with his earliest "legal" published work in A Patch of Blue
, a band he joined at 15 that opened for icons like The Beach Boys and The Animals. The journey then moves through his groundbreaking years with
in Boulder, Colorado, where his psychedelic blues style first gained national attention. Diverse Collaborations and Jazz Fusion
One of Bolin’s most significant periods was his foray into jazz fusion . The box set highlights his work with: Billy Cobham : His legendary performance on the 1973 album solidified his status as a guitar hero.
: This jazz-rock project showcases some of his most innovative and raw material. Alphonse Mouzon : Bolin contributed to the Mind Transplant album, further proving his versatility across genres.
Let’s be realistic. An original 2002 pressing of the "Fever Box" might cost $400–$800 USD. The "-Extra Quality-" variant, due to its scarcity, often breaks the four-figure mark.
You should buy this if:
You should skip this if:
The Tommy Bolin 1966 1976 Fever Box Set 15 Cdsl (-Extra Quality-) is not merely a product; it is a time machine. It walks you through the evolution of a guitarist who could play Albert King blues at 16, fusion at 20, arena rock at 24, and heartbreakingly introspective jazz-funk at 25.
In a digital age where we stream compressed versions of the same 12 songs, this box demands you sit down, read the liner notes, and listen to the dust on the tapes. It preserves the "fever" of a man who lived and breathed music every single hour of that decade.
If you find a copy, do not hesitate. Rumor has it that due to ongoing estate disputes, this specific 15-CD configuration will never be repressed. It is the final, exhaustive word on one of rock’s most under-sung heroes.
Final Verdict: 10/10. A monument to what a box set should be: complete, uncompromising, and absolutely heartbreaking.
Have you owned a copy of the Tommy Bolin Fever Box? Share your pressing details (CD matrix numbers, discog links) in the comments below. Beware of counterfeit "Extra Quality" labels—check the IFPI codes.
For fans of the late guitar wizard Tommy Bolin "Fever" 15-CD Box Set
is the ultimate deep dive into a career that burned bright and ended far too soon. Spanning his earliest recordings in 1966 to his final show in 1976, this massive collection—originally released through the Tommy Bolin Archives
—is a treasure trove for anyone who wants to hear the evolution of a legend. A Decade of Sonic Evolution
The set is structured to follow Bolin’s journey from a teenage prodigy in Iowa to a global rock icon. Highlights of the 15 discs include: The Early Years (1966): CD 1 features Patch of Blue
, Tommy’s first major band, including a fascinating 14-minute "Beatles Jam". The Fusion Foundation: Multiple discs dedicated to (1972) and his jazz-rock explorations with legends like Jan Hammer Billy Cobham (1971 sessions). The Powerhouse Eras: Extensive live and studio outtakes from his time with The James Gang , and his legendary stint replacing Ritchie Blackmore in Deep Purple The Final Days:
The set concludes with the raw and emotional recordings from late 1976, including the
and his absolute final show at the Jai-Alai Fronton in Miami on December 3, just hours before his death. Why This Set is "Extra Quality" While Bolin has many posthumous releases, the box is unique because of its sheer scope. It includes: Acoustic Demos:
Intimate versions of classics like "Teaser" and "Wild Dogs". Rare Jams: Exclusive sessions with and various "friends" recorded at venues like Ebbets Field. Interviews:
Segments of Bolin discussing his music and life, providing a personal window into his creative process. Whether you're looking for the high-octane fusion of or the gritty rock of Private Eyes
, this box set captures every facet of Tommy Bolin’s "extra quality" musicianship. for a specific era, like his time with Deep Purple
Tommy Bolin – Fever – CD (Box Set, Album, Limited ... - Discogs