Great Metal Albums of 1983: Bernie Torme- Electric Gypsies

For most musicians, being kicked out of a band usually spells the end for their music careers. One would have been forgiven for thinking that would have happened to guitarist Bernie Torme when he was fired by Ian Gillan from his band. It seems somebody forgot to tell that to Bernie because in 1983, he was back with a new band, sometimes referred to as the name of this album, “Electric Gypsies.”

Back in the 1980s, not many Americans heard of Bernie Torme. I only learned of him when I saw this album on a catalog, though I never bought it, silly me. It wasn’t until I got to England in 1986 when a new found friend introduced me to Bernie Torme and eventually this album. I have been grateful to this friend ever since.

“Electric Gypsies” is one hell of an album, plain and simple. With a good rhythm section behind him and bassist Everton Williams also providing vocals, Bernie Torme just shows what he can do with the guitar and so many rocking ways. “20th Century” is a pure metal tune that just belts your eardrums from the very first note. However, the next track is my all time favourite, “Lightning Strikes.” It starts out with a soft progressive metal before it gets down to business with some heavy chords. This is the first song where Bernie truly goes to town with the guitar. Hell, he doesn’t go to town, he goes to the city and countryside and a few other places with it. He just lays down the jams on this one.

I like the funky vibe on the two songs after, “Too Young” and “Call of the Wild.” Both songs have a real catchy hook on them with the added bonus of Bernie’s soloing, especially on the latter of the two. “D.I.S.E.” is nearly a speed metal track but it’s pulled off rather well. Then comes “Presence.” It starts out like it’s going to be a hippy more progressive song with a very eerie but nice sounding melody to the acoustic guitar. I still find myself wanting to lay back and absorb myself into the song wishing I had something to smoke. This is the first half of the song but even then things don’t get that much harder. Bernie’s solo is captivating with Frank Noon doing some excellent drumming in support, a very interesting song to say the least.

The last two songs bring “Electric Gypsies” out on a real high. “I Can’t Control Myself” is a party song and livens things up following its more somber predecessor and that leads to “Go Go” closing the album out. This was truly an overlooked album.

Track Listing:

1. Wild West
2. 20 Century
3. Lightning Strikes
4. Too Young
5. Call of the Wild
6. D.I.S.E.
7. Presence
8. I Can’t Control Myself
9. Go Go
   

   Bernie Torme and his band

   Bernie Torme- guitar, vocals

10. Everton Williams- bass, vocals
11. Frank Noon- drums

Do you think that Ian Gillan ever regretted firing Bernie Torme? Probably not but for Bernie, it gave him the opportunity to put out a kick ass album in 1983. Have a listen.

Next post: Manowar- Into Glory Ride

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