Feature Photo: Carl Lender, CC BY-SA 3.0
This Complete List Of J. Geils Band Albums And Songs presents the full discography of J. Geils Band studio albums. The band was first formed in 1967. The group hails from the area of Worcester, Massachusetts. This complete discography also includes every single live J. Geils Band album. All these spectacular albums have been presented below in chronological order. We have also included all original release dates with each J. Geils Band album as well as all original album covers. Every J. Geils Band album listed below showcases the entire album tracklisting.
J. GEILS BAND STUDIO ALBUMS
The J. Geils Band
Released November 16, 1970
The J. Geils Band marked the explosive debut of the Boston-based sextet, delivering a raw blend of blues-rock and R&B. Recorded at A&R Studios in New York City during the summer of 1970, the album captured the band’s high-energy live sound, honed through relentless touring and their passion for blues and soul music. Produced by the legendary Dave Crawford, the album introduced listeners to the electrifying synergy of the group and laid the foundation for their career.
The lineup on this record included Peter Wolf on lead vocals, J. Geils on guitar, Seth Justman on keyboards, Magic Dick on harmonica, Danny Klein on bass, and Stephen Jo Bladd on drums and backing vocals. Their chemistry is evident throughout the album, which features a mix of original compositions and covers of R&B and blues classics. Songs like “Hard Drivin’ Man” and “First I Look at the Purse” demonstrate their ability to blend tight instrumental arrangements with raw, soulful vocals.
Although it didn’t initially achieve major commercial success, the album was praised for its authenticity and exuberance. Over time, it has come to be regarded as a landmark debut that showcases The J. Geils Band’s unique ability to bridge traditional blues with rock energy, setting the stage for their later successes.
Track Listing:
- “Wait” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 3:25
- “Ice Breaker (For the Big ‘M’)” – J. Geils – 2:15
- “Cruisin’ for a Love” – Juke Joint Jimmy – 2:32
- “Hard Drivin’ Man” – Peter Wolf, J. Geils – 2:18
- “Serves You Right to Suffer” – John Lee Hooker – 5:01
- “Homework” – Otis Rush, Al Perkins, Dave Clark – 2:45
- “First I Look at the Purse” – Robert Rogers, Smokey Robinson – 3:54
- “What’s Your Hurry” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 2:44
- “On Borrowed Time” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:03
- “Pack Fair and Square” – Big Walter Price – 2:01
- “Sno-Cone” – Albert Collins – 3:24
The Morning After
Released October 2, 1971
The Morning After was The J. Geils Band’s second studio album, released less than a year after their self-titled debut. The record built on the raw, high-energy sound of their debut while showcasing their growing confidence as songwriters and performers. Recorded at A&R Studios in New York City, the album captured the band’s electric synergy and their ability to seamlessly blend blues, R&B, and rock. It was produced by the talented Dave Crawford, who had also helmed their debut album, ensuring continuity in their sound.
The band lineup remained consistent, featuring Peter Wolf on lead vocals, J. Geils on guitar, Seth Justman on keyboards, Magic Dick on harmonica, Danny Klein on bass, and Stephen Jo Bladd on drums and backing vocals. This time, the album saw a heavier emphasis on original material, with contributions from Justman and Wolf in particular, while also featuring their dynamic reinterpretations of R&B classics. Tracks like “Looking for a Love” and “It Ain’t What You Do” became live staples, showcasing the band’s ability to energize any audience.
Critically, the album was praised for its consistency and the band’s distinctive blend of tight musicianship and raucous energy. It peaked at No. 64 on the Billboard 200 chart, further solidifying The J. Geils Band’s reputation as a rising force in American rock. The album remains a fan favorite for its raw energy and infectious grooves, capturing the band at a pivotal moment in their career.
Track Listing:
- “I Don’t Need You No More” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 2:33
- “Whammer Jammer” – Magic Dick – 2:39
- “So Sharp” – Arlester “Dyke” Christian – 3:08
- “The Usual Place” – Gerald Sims – 2:45
- “Gotta Have Your Love” – Sylvester Thompson – 4:32
- “Looking for a Love” – J.W. Alexander, Zelda Samuels – 3:45
- “Gonna Find Me a New Love” – Juke Joint Jimmy – 3:23
- “Cry One More Time” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 3:21
- “It Ain’t What You Do (It’s How You Do It!)” – Billy Butler, Henry Butler, Rose Marie McCoy – 5:12
- “Homework” – Otis Rush, Al Perkins, Dave Clark – 2:45
Bloodshot
Released April 12, 1973
Bloodshot, the third studio album by The J. Geils Band, marked a significant milestone in the band’s career, becoming their first album to crack the Top 10 on the Billboard 200, where it peaked at No. 10. Released under Atlantic Records, it showcased the band’s evolving sound, blending rock, R&B, and soul with a sharper edge. Recorded at the Hit Factory in New York City, the album captured the band’s vibrant energy and musical versatility under the production of Bill Szymczyk, who later gained fame for his work with The Eagles.
The lineup for the album featured Peter Wolf on lead vocals, J. Geils on guitar, Seth Justman on keyboards, Magic Dick on harmonica, Danny Klein on bass, and Stephen Jo Bladd on drums and backing vocals. Their synergy was palpable throughout the record, which includes both original compositions and spirited covers. Notably, Bloodshot was also the band’s first album to be released on red vinyl, a marketing move that added to its appeal.
Critically acclaimed for its high-energy performances and tight arrangements, the album included the hit single “Give It to Me,” which reached No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. Bloodshot cemented The J. Geils Band’s reputation as one of the most dynamic live and studio acts of the early 1970s.
Track Listing:
- “(Ain’t Nothin’ But a) House Party” – Del Sharh, Joseph Thomas, Earl Randle – 4:43
- “Make Up Your Mind” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:31
- “Back to Get Ya” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 5:22
- “Struttin’ with My Baby” – Juke Joint Jimmy – 3:18
- “Don’t Try to Hide It” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 5:35
- “Southside Shuffle” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:43
- “Hold Your Loving” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 2:33
- “Start All Over Again” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:03
- “Give It to Me” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 6:29
Ladies Invited
Released November 9, 1973
Ladies Invited, the fourth studio album by The J. Geils Band, showcased the band’s ability to craft soulful, high-energy rock infused with blues and funk influences. Released under Atlantic Records, the album continued the group’s momentum following the success of Bloodshot. Recorded at the Record Plant in New York City, the album captured the raw energy and vibrant sound that had become the band’s signature. Produced by Bill Szymczyk, who had also helmed their previous album, the record reflected a more refined approach to songwriting and arrangements while retaining their trademark edge.
The lineup featured Peter Wolf on lead vocals, J. Geils on guitar, Seth Justman on keyboards, Magic Dick on harmonica, Danny Klein on bass, and Stephen Jo Bladd on drums and backing vocals. The chemistry among the band members was evident throughout the album, with tracks like “Did You No Wrong” and “I Can’t Go On” highlighting their collaborative energy and tight musicianship. The album also incorporated elements of funk and soul, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles.
While Ladies Invited did not achieve the commercial success of its predecessor, it was praised by critics for its infectious grooves and energetic performances. The album resonated particularly well with fans who appreciated the band’s blend of rock and R&B influences.
Track Listing:
- “Did You No Wrong” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 4:06
- “I Can’t Go On” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:47
- “Lay Your Good Thing Down” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 4:35
- “That’s Why I Love You So” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 4:19
- “Take a Chance (On Romance)” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:48
- “Chimes” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:06
- “Hang on Snoopy” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:15
- “Sugar Shaker” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:26
- “What’s Your Hurry” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 3:34
- “The Lady Makes Demands” – Peter Wolf, Seth Justman – 4:0
Nightmares…and Other Tales from the Vinyl Jungle
Released September 25, 1974
Nightmares…and Other Tales from the Vinyl Jungle, The J. Geils Band’s fifth studio album, solidified their reputation as masters of high-energy rock fused with blues and R&B influences. Released under Atlantic Records, the album was recorded at the Record Plant in New York City and produced by Bill Szymczyk, a consistent collaborator who understood the band’s raw, live-driven aesthetic. The album reached No. 26 on the Billboard 200 chart, with its standout single “Must of Got Lost” climbing to No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the band’s most iconic tracks.
The lineup featured Peter Wolf on lead vocals, J. Geils on guitar, Seth Justman on keyboards, Magic Dick on harmonica, Danny Klein on bass, and Stephen Jo Bladd on drums and backing vocals. This album saw the band further refining their songwriting craft, with most of the tracks penned by Peter Wolf and Seth Justman. Their chemistry as a band shone throughout, delivering a mix of soulful grooves, rock riffs, and infectious melodies that energized listeners.
Critics praised the album for its consistent energy and engaging performances, with tracks like “Detroit Breakdown” and “Must of Got Lost” standing out for their emotional resonance and vibrant arrangements. Nightmares…and Other Tales from the Vinyl Jungle became a fan favorite and a quintessential example of The J. Geils Band’s ability to blend raw rock with soulful, danceable rhythms.
The album opens with the driving intensity of “Detroit Breakdown,” a track that showcases the band’s ability to create high-energy rock fused with bluesy undertones. “Must of Got Lost” stands out as a soulful anthem of heartbreak, with Peter Wolf’s emotive delivery making it a standout moment in their catalog. Tracks like “Stoop Down #39” and “Nightmares” further highlight the band’s range, combining humor, funk, and storytelling into a cohesive experience. Nightmares…and Other Tales from the Vinyl Jungle remains a key release in The J. Geils Band’s career, illustrating their unique blend of styles and their ability to connect with audiences through unrelenting energy and soul.
Track Listing:
- “Detroit Breakdown” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 6:03
- “Givin’ It All Up” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 3:32
- “Must of Got Lost” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 2:58
- “Look Me in the Eye” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 3:57
- “Nightmares” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 3:20
- “Stoop Down #39” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 6:53
- “I’ll Be Coming Home” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 4:39
- “Funky Judge” – Zack Laurie, Clarence Reid – 3:22
- “Gettin’ Out” – Seth Justman, Peter Wolf – 5:10