Strong Songs

Talkin' Tower of Power, with Adam Maness and Peter Martin [You'll Hear It]

14 snips
Aug 22, 2025
Guest
Kirk Hamilton
Kirk Hamilton, host of the Strong Songs podcast and a skilled horn player, joins pianists Adam Maness and Peter Martin to dissect the funk legend Tower of Power. They explore what makes the band a staple of the genre, celebrating intricate drumming, powerful horn arrangements, and standout tracks like 'What Is Hip?'. The conversation delves into the rich history of Bay Area funk, the art of musical fills, and the unique dynamics of collaboration within the band, all while sharing humorous production stories. Get ready for some serious funk appreciation!
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ANECDOTE

How Each Host Found Tower Of Power

  • Kirk, Adam, and Peter each share how they first encountered Tower of Power and who introduced them to the band.
  • Kirk recounts learning the band at University of Miami in a student ensemble led by a Dave Garibaldi–obsessed drummer.
INSIGHT

Rhythm Section As The Engine

  • The album showcases a tightly locked rhythm section where Garibaldi's drums and Rocco Prestia's bass act like a machine-gun duo.
  • That drum-bass interlock defines Tower of Power's groove and gives space for horns and vocals to shine.
INSIGHT

Unusual Drum Mix Creates Space

  • The album's drum sound and stereo placement are distinctive, with drums panned left on this record and Byers' congas on the right.
  • That unusual mix creates space and a unique rhythmic lock between kit and percussion.
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