Blood, Sweat & Tears – No Sweat

Blood, Sweat & Tears – No Sweat

Released in 1973, No Sweat marked a fresh chapter in the evolving career of Blood, Sweat & Tears, one of the pioneering bands that successfully fused rock, jazz, blues, soul, and R&B into a distinctive brass-driven sound. Following a period of lineup changes, the album introduced new vocalist Jerry Fisher while retaining the group's trademark musicianship and ambitious arrangements.

Although No Sweat arrived during a changing musical landscape, it remains an overlooked gem within the band's catalogue, showcasing their remarkable ability to blend sophisticated horn arrangements with infectious rock grooves, jazz improvisation, and soulful melodies. The album balances energetic ensemble performances with thoughtful songwriting, highlighting why Blood, Sweat & Tears became one of the defining jazz-rock bands of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Opening with the upbeat Roller Coaster, the album quickly establishes its dynamic sound before moving through highlights including the reflective Save Our Ship, the jazz-inspired instrumental Django (An Excerpt), the melodic Rosemary, and the heartfelt Almost Sorry. Side B continues with the driving Back Up Against The Wall, the playful instrumental Hip Pickles, the soulful My Old Lady, Empty Pages, Mary Miles, and the expansive closing track Inner Crisis, which allows the band's exceptional musicianship to shine.

For fans of Chicago, Steely Dan, Chase, Tower Of Power, and classic jazz-rock fusion, No Sweat offers an enjoyable blend of brass-heavy arrangements, polished production, and adventurous songwriting. A rewarding addition for collectors of 1970s rock and jazz fusion, this LP highlights a fascinating period in Blood, Sweat & Tears' long and influential career.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Roller Coaster
2. Save Our Ship
3. Django (An Excerpt)
4. Rosemary
5. Song For John
6. Almost Sorry

Side B

1. Back Up Against The Wall
2. Hip Pickles
3. My Old Lady
4. Empty Pages
5. Mary Miles
6. Inner Crisis