As fine as their four previous studio albums had been, Earth Wind & Fire were clearly on fire as a live act, as evidenced on ‘Gratitude’. Recorded during the first rush of mega-stardom the live portion of the album catches them playing raw but tight, stretching out the solos and arrangements and adding in several delightful new songs (“Sun Goddess”, “New World Symphony”) of a progressive nature. The genius mind and vision of Maurice White may lead this musical ensemble, but he never acts as if it belongs to him only. The live versions of “Yearnin’ Learnin’”, “Devotion” and “Sun Goddess” (which they wrote and was recorded by jazz legend Ramsey Lewis) are funky and jazzy. The standout live track is “Reasons” where Phillip Bailey treats us to a vocal tour-de-force.

TRACKLIST:

A1a. Introduction By MC Perry Jones

A1b. Africano/Power Medley

A2. Yearnin' Learnin'

A3. Devotion

B1. Sun Goddess

B2. Reasons

B3. Sing A Message To You

C1. Shining Star

C2. New World Symphony

C3. Sunshine

D1. Singasong

D2. Gratitude

D3. Celebrate

D4. Can't Hide Love