Taste: The Rise and Fall of a Blues Rock Legend
Led by the charismatic Rory Gallagher, Taste was a band that had the potential to reach the heights of Cream or Fleetwood Mac. Formed in Cork in the late 1960s, the trio quickly gained a following in Belfast, where they played dynamic blues covers and original songs to enthusiastic crowds. Despite their talent and success, internal tensions and managerial issues led to the band's premature demise in 1970.
Taste's rise to fame was marked by their residency at Belfast's Club Rado in the Maritime Hotel in July 1967. The band's electrifying performances attracted a diverse audience, from curious onlookers to devoted fans who hailed Taste as the best Irish band since Them. Led by the passionate Rory Gallagher on guitar and vocals, the band's raw and dynamic sound captivated audiences and earned them a loyal following.
As Taste's popularity grew, so did the challenges they faced. Despite their musical success, the band struggled with internal conflicts and managerial issues that ultimately led to their breakup. Rory Gallagher's decision to go solo marked the end of Taste, leaving behind a legacy of two studio albums that showcased their exceptional talent and unique sound.
Taste's self-titled debut album, released in 1969, received positive reviews and commercial success, establishing the band as a force to be reckoned with in the blues rock scene. Their follow-up album, "On The Boards," showcased Gallagher's versatility and musical prowess, blending blues, jazz, rock, and psychedelia in a way that set Taste apart from their contemporaries.
Despite their brief existence, Taste left a lasting impact on the music world, with their music continuing to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. The recent release of the "I'll Remember" box set and the "Live At The Isle Of Wight" DVD pays tribute to the band's legacy and ensures that their music will be remembered and appreciated for years to come. Through these releases, the Gallagher estate aims to honor Rory's musical legacy and ensure that Taste's contributions to the blues rock genre are properly recognized and celebrated.