Earth Wind & Fire - Last Days and Time

Infinite Days and Timeless

If forced to make a choice of favorite EWF albums, Last Days and Time would be the landslide winner. Fortunately, I don't have to because over five decades of existence, the band produced so many tunes that have become part of the lexicon of R&B, funk, and jazz. However, on this album, the first of a long and prosperous relationship with Columbia I think the listening public is treated to the refinement of sound and style that would become the unmistakable signature of EWF.

While the self-titled intro album and The Need of Love offer glimpses, here we experience the collaborations that are so prominent in the latest release, Promise, nearly 40 years later. Even while covering potential crossover songs like Where Have all the Flowers Gone, which is reminiscent of the tunes Jessica Cleaves had performed with Friends of Distinction, we are offered a taste of the range and talent of Philip Bailey. As a fan of jazz and most particularly fusion, Power fits into the same category for me as Herbie Hancock's Headhunter.

This is my also my favorite in terms of cover art, with the blooming ideas emanating from the fertile mind of Maurice White, enhanced and electrified by the individual contributions of each band member. Really, I am at a loss to understand who at this juncture would require an introduction to my all time favorite band, but for whomever that might be, this is where I would start.
November 12, 2007

Foundation of Greatness

After their first 2 albums, both of which i love, many of the groups original memebers weren't satisfied with were the group was & left. Maurice & Verdine had to start from scratch which led to the inclusion of Ronald Laws, Roland Bautista, Jessica Cleaves & more importantly Philip Bailey, Larry Dunn & Ralph Johnson. The latter 3 along with the White brothers would form the foundation of what was to become the greatest band ever! This album gives you a glimpse of the future greatness, it's funky, raw & full of energy. Great vocals, slamming bass & drums, funky guitar & outstanding horns all trademarks of the elements. For EWF fans, this album represents the beinning of a wonderful journey & i for one have enjoyed the ride! June 20, 2007

First and Favorite, still.

This album was my introduction to the music of EWF, it remains my very favorite. This is as much for the nostalgia it brings back as for the music.

The music is not an afterthought though. This is marvelous music. Maurice White's vision and the band's sound was never better than this document.

A must own for any EWF fan. April 8, 2007

A sign of bigger things to come from this group

I went to a concert at the University of MD (in the mid 70s) to see EWF, Mandrill, and Stevie Wonder- the bands played in that order.
EWF, while starting the concert first, stole the show, playing "Power," "Where Have All the Flowers Gone," "Mom," to name a few- all from the Last Days and Time album. I've been a solid fan ever since! They still put on a great show. For the serious EWF fans, "Last Days and Time' is an absolute MUST to have in your collection! This is one of my favorite EWF recordings still! April 8, 2006

Memories

I remember this CD(ablum in my day)from my college days (71-75) and it's just as good as i remember. Murice and the gang (female singer then)are in top form, and the songs are great. I think this was their breakthrough ablum and it was just an indication of things to come. February 25, 2006

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