"Rock Love" is an intriguing entry in the Steve Miller Band's discography, released in September 1971. This album is notable for its unique format, combining live and studio recordings. Specifically, it features a split of three live blues-rock tracks on one side and four studio tracks on the other.
The live side of the album includes notable performances such as the extended jam "Love Shock," which runs nearly 12 minutes and showcases a significant drum solo. This side also features Bobby Winkelman, who had returned to the band on rhythm guitar after the departure of the previous lineup. Interestingly, while Winkelman and David Denny (a future member who plays guest guitar on "Blues Without Blame") contributed to the album, they were not credited on the album cover.
The studio side of Rock Love includes four tracks that further explore Miller's blues-rock influences. However, despite the diverse and ambitious content, the album was met with mixed reviews. Critics were divided, with some disparaging it as "generic white-boy blueisms," reflecting dissatisfaction with the album's departure from more innovative or distinctive blues interpretations.
The commercial performance of Rock Love mirrored the critical reception. Unlike Miller's earlier work, which had enjoyed considerable success, this album failed to make a significant impact, marking a notable downturn in his commercial fortunes at the time. The shift in band lineup and the mixed reception contributed to its status as a commercial disappointment.
