Photo by Haze Photography

Legendary R&B band Tower of Power have announced a new live record, 50 Years of Funk & Soul: Live at the Fox Theater – Oakland, CA – June 2018. The record was recorded over two nights during Tower of Power’s gigs at Oakland, Calif.’s Fox Theater.

The record will also be released digitally for streaming and download on Qobuz on Feb. 26. A physical version (as well as wide release on streaming services) is due out March 26. Available physical editions will include a 3-LP set, a 2-CD/DVD combo and a standalone DVD, featuring video of the performances on the album.

According to a press release, “Tower of Power went all out for these hometown shows, supplementing the core 10-piece band and its iconic horn section with additional horns and a string section.”

“Bandleader and saxophonist Emilio Castillo also invited back a few elite ToP alumni, including saxophonist Lenny Pickett (musical director of the Saturday Night Live band); keyboardist Chester Thompson (Santana); guitarist Bruce Conte and former vocalist Ray Greene, who shows off his trombone prowess,” continued the release. “They join the renowned modern line-up of the band, featuring co-founder Stephen ‘Doc’ Kupka on baritone sax, longtime drummer David Garibaldi, and lead vocalist Marcus Scott. Adding a bittersweet tinge is the presence of founding bassist Francis “Rocco” Prestia, who passed away in September 2020.”

“People come up to me all the time and say, ‘Wow man, 50 years! We can’t believe it,’” said Castillo (via press release). “You can’t believe it? I’m the one that can’t believe it. We’ve been through a lot of ups and downs and learned a lot along the way. We’ve affected a lot of people’s lives and done a lot of work that we’re very proud of. The band has a real family atmosphere. It’s been very rewarding.”

For more information on the new record, head to towerofpower.com.