Earth, Wind & Fire – Gratitude (2xLP)

As impressive as their four previous studio albums were, Earth Wind & Fire were especially convincing as a live act, as their album "Gratitude" proves. The live part of the album includes unedited recordings, extended solos and arrangements and wonderful new songs ("Sun Goddess", "New World Symphony") of progressive nature. The genius mindset and vision of Maurice White may guide this musical ensemble, but he never acts as if everything is just directed by him.

The live versions of "Yearnin' Learnin'," "Devotion" and "Sun Goddess" (written and recorded by jazz legend Ramsey Lewis) are funky and jazzy. The standout live track is "Reasons," a vocal tour de force by Phillip Bailey.