Like all of the Miles Davis’ alumnus, Tony Williams continued the exploration-into-rock-music idiom of his mentor. But Williams went furthest into the rock and roll philosophy and sound. His first records had the sleeve instructions: "Play it Loud!" The level of energy put into playing is so high on all Lifetime (the name of his band) albums that their music was characterized as intense, daring and sometimes a little terrifying. In 1975, Tony Williams signed with a new label, pieced together a New Tony Williams Lifetime, and moved in a little more conventional jazz-rock direction. The new line-up consisted of Allan Holdsworth on guitar, Alan Pasqua on keyboards, Tony Newton on bass, and Williams behind the drum set. The same year they recorded and released the first LP of the new Lifetime, but unlike so many fusion records of the time, “Believe It” managed to be powerful without the bombastic arrangements of bands like Return to Forever. Holdsworth was a brilliant addition to the band, not only for his excellent, fresh guitar playing but also for his contributions as a composer. The composition "Fred," later re-titled "Kinder" by Holdsworth, and a staple in his repertoire for some years to come, introduces Holdsworth's unique harmonic language, with a lyrical bent that manages to be completely distinctive.
AllMusic awarded the album with 4 out of 5 stars. The Rolling Stone Jazz Record Guide also awarded 4 out of 5 stars and in his review, John Swenson describes the album as "both funk fusion delights featuring the playing of ex-Soft Machine axeman Allan Holdsworth." The music is a display of skill, muscle, creativeness, and great interplay. Unlike his contemporaries, who insisted on showcasing drumming techniques at every possible moment, Williams concentrates on the groove and on the music itself. “Believe It” is a great record, which I would recommend to everyone from regular jazz-rock fans to musicians seeking challenge and inspiration.
