That's the Way of the World: Alive in '75  (Audio CD) 
by Wind & Fire Earth

To each his own I guess, but this CD hasn't been removed from my CD player for two weeks now! I still love "Gratitude," but this CD is now my favorite live CD of all time! Just getting a chance to hear the finest live band EVER, plus two of the best guitarists in Johnny Graham and Al McKay is a REAL treat! If only there were a DVD video for this concert recording!

the real thing, and it feels good  Feb 20, 2004
I love this release. Some other reviewers talk about it not being polished,etc. That's the whole point. I love the "Gratitude" album yes, but this is better in that there are no overdubs, while on Gratitude there are plenty, mainly vocal. Also the arrangements here are more controlled and not full volume all the time. For example i like the version of "Reasons" here better than the Gratitude one. For one, Bailey's vocalizing during the breakdown are so much more soulful. Also the tempo is a little slower and not rushed sounding. More dynamics between the band here too. Plus "Kalimba Story" is almost too good! When the guitar comes in during the drum break..look out..they start throwin down. I recommend this to any EWF fan. This is before they became real huge and crossed over more. And this is the way it would have sounded, no effects, overdubs,etc. Check it out!

3 of 3 found the following review helpful:

not up to Maurices' standards...  Aug 31, 2003
This disc is recommended only for the hardcore fan. Columbia released this I'm sure without the blessing of Maurice. This cd is the sound of a band in development...wavering tempos,sloppy playing, amateurish and unrefined. I'm a BIG EWF fan, but no way can I recommend this cd just because I love the group. For a tight sound and great improvisational playing, I suggest 1980's recording "Live in Rio" released in 2002. For great sound but no horns - try "Greatest Hits Live" recorded in Tokyo in 1996 with Maurice. (His last tour, I believe. Graditude is also a more polished effort than Live in 75' and recorded only six months later

1 of 1 found the following review helpful:

Outshines "Gratitude"'s Live Content  Jul 23, 2003
On a whole "Gratitude" with it's studio tracks is a better buy. But the live performance rises a few degrees higher than "Gratitude". If you really want to show off EWF- play this jam for your friends.