Gettin’ Tighter

The Zoo Crew is spinning the funky, hard-hitting track "Gettin’ Tighter" by Tommy Bolin, featured on the compilation album Selections From The Ultimate.... This song, originally from Deep Purple’s 1975 album Come Taste the Band, showcases Bolin’s exceptional guitar work and songwriting, blending rock, jazz, and funk into an irresistible groove. Fans on the Highway Star, a long-running Deep Purple fan site, have praised the song for its catchy riff and Glenn Hughes’ soulful vocals, with one fan, Dave S., calling it his favorite track from the album for its live energy when stretched out in performances. Another fan on the official Tommy Bolin website noted the song’s “great playing” and funky vibe, highlighting its enduring appeal among Zoo Freaks who dig its tight, dynamic sound.

Behind the scenes, "Gettin’ Tighter" was a product of Bolin’s creative synergy with Glenn Hughes during a tumultuous time for Deep Purple. The Tommy Bolin official site recounts a vivid memory from a 1975 performance where the band, including Bolin, launched into the song amidst a literal storm, with thunder and lightning amplifying the electric atmosphere. However, not all reactions were glowing. In a 1985 interview shared on earofnewt.com, Roger Glover expressed disappointment after seeing Deep Purple with Bolin, suggesting the live shows sometimes lacked cohesion, a sentiment echoed in mixed reviews of the band’s tour. Despite this, the song’s studio version remains a fan favorite, with Glenn Hughes still performing it live, as noted on SongMeanings, where its lyrics about being “10,000 miles away” and spinning round capture the wild, disorienting energy of Bolin’s life on the road.

Tommy Bolin’s journey to becoming a guitar legend began in Sioux City, Iowa, where he was born on August 1, 1951. Inspired by Elvis Presley as a youth, Bolin picked up the guitar early and studied at Flood Music in his hometown, as detailed on the Colorado Music Hall of Fame site. By age 13, he was already playing in local bands like Denny and the Triumphs, which later became A Patch of Blue, performing a mix of pop, R&B, blues, and jazz. These early gigs, including opening for acts like The Beach Boys, gave Bolin a taste of the stage. In 1968, he moved to Colorado and formed Zephyr, a band that blended rock and jazz, achieving a Top 50 album with their debut. Frustrated by the follow-up’s lack of success, Bolin founded the fusion group Energy, though it never secured a record deal. His big break came in 1973 when he replaced Joe Walsh in James Gang, leading to albums like Bang and Miami, before joining Deep Purple in 1975 and launching his solo career with the acclaimed Teaser.

Bolin’s legacy lives on through his official website, which offers videos, a timeline, and fan stories, as well as the official Tommy Bolin Facebook page, where fans share memories and updates. The Tommy Bolin Instagram features rare photos and tributes, while the Tommy Bolin X account keeps the conversation alive with posts about his music. Fans, or Zoo Freaks, can connect on the Tommy Bolin Fan Page on Facebook, a vibrant group for sharing art, covers, and memories. Another fan hub, Gettin’ Tighter on Tumblr, run by a Deep Purple and Bolin enthusiast, mixes shitposts with heartfelt tributes, including Bolin-inspired drawings. The Tommy Bolin Fan Page on Angelfire also provides a nostalgic archive of discography details and fan reviews, keeping Bolin’s spirit alive for new generations.