Released in 1971, Ride The Wind is an excellent example of the Youngbloods at their best. Recorded live on November 26, 28, and 29, 1969 in New York City, the band consisted of Jesse Colin Young on bass and vocals, Banana (born Lowell Levinger) on guitar and piano, and drummer Joe Bauer. This was a brilliant incarnation of the Youngbloods.
The album opens with the title track — an epic clocking in at nine minutes — followed by “Sugar Babe” and “Sunlight.” These three songs, written by Jesse Colin Young, became staples of the band’s repertoire. The album’s second side opens with Fred Neil’s “The Dolphin,” boasting an excellent arrangement. Banana’s keyboard work is exceptional here, free-flowing with jazz-flavored accentuations.
The second track is “Get Together,” probably the most popular Youngbloods song of all, an anthem for the times and an anchor on oldies radio stations. It remains one of my personal favorites, the album’s version being slightly different than the hit single. Ride The Wind closes with “Beautiful,” the most dated song of the collection, chronicling the band’s move to San Francisco in 1967.
~ Dave Gardiner
