Tommy G returns to the music scene with Taking Back the Past, Vol. 1, an album that reimagines tracks from his former band Half Past 6 after a 16-year hiatus. Known for his DIY approach, Tommy G plays guitar, keyboards, and produces his own work, with notable collaborations including Rob Hyman of The Hooters and bassist Kenny Aaronson (Yardbirds, Bob Dylan). The album’s final track, I’m Comin’ Home, is a tribute to Bruce Springsteen, inspired by the E Street Band sound and featuring saxophonist Phil Brontz.
Tommy G doesn’t just play rock and roll. He lives it. The first song on the EP, “Throw Me Out the Door,” is a wild, blues soaked ride that channels the raw energy of legends like Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Dion. With searing guitar solos and a harmonica performance that belongs in the history books, this song feels like it rolled straight out of a jukebox in 1959 and lit it on fire on the way out. “I’ve always had a thing for turning up the stereo when I hear something I love,” Tommy says. “So with a little poetic license, this one’s pretty autobiographical.” That said, he insists, and his wife and mom would like to confirm, that no one has ever actually thrown him out. But if they had, he would have turned it into rock and roll gold anyway.
“When my kids were young, my wife bought me an acoustic guitar so I wouldn’t wake them up when I played. I would later write the intro riff on that guitar and I reference it in the third verse.” – Tommy G
The second track on the EP, “Got Late Early,” is a heartfelt singer-songwriter ballad that draws you in with its warm, intimate sound. The soft strum of the acoustic guitar and the subtle foot tapping, captured perfectly by the microphone, create an inviting atmosphere. The vocal delivery is smooth, soulful, and reflective, with Tommy G singing, “It ain’t too late to clean up my act.” This track offers a blend of personal reflection, the chaos of the world around us, and a thread of hope. It speaks to the possibility of change and redemption, reminding us that it’s never too late to make things right. Light percussion and a keyboard in the second verse add depth, while an accordion serenades the listener with its gentle presence, rounding out this beautiful, introspective, and hopeful piece.
The drums and rock ‘n’ roll energy return in “Turned Out Wrong.” A powerful guitar riff kicks things off, setting the tone before the rock ‘n’ roll vocals take over. Pianos weave through the track, adding a touch of classic blues and rock ‘n’ roll anthem vibes. The song not only boasts a compelling storyline, but it also delivers catchy melodies, both in the guitars and vocals. As the lyrics unfold, you’ll hear the line, “The ending of the story just turned out wrong,” echoing the track’s bittersweet theme.
The final track on the record, “I’m Comin’ Home,” delivers a high-energy rock ‘n’ roll, big band energy, with a touch of Americana. From the very first note, the vocal melody grabs you, with the song’s infectious rhythm driving it forward. The instrumentation is top-notch, featuring exciting percussion, a piano that plays a catchy melody, and distorted guitar riffs that add extra layers to the song’s hooks.
At its heart, “I’m Comin’ Home” captures the experience of life on the road and the longing for a return to balance and normalcy. The loneliness that often accompanies life on tour is felt deeply as Tommy G sings, “Can’t take another night alone.” The track reaches its peak with a killer saxophone solo that elevates the entire piece, making it a fitting and powerful closing to the record.
Written by Ryan Cassata
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