Editing Hot Tuna (section)

=== Electric turn and peak activity (1971–1978) ===

As the Airplane wound down, Hot Tuna shifted toward a louder, more electric approach. 
''[[First Pull Up, Then Pull Down]]'' (1971), recorded live at the Fillmore East, captured 
the electric band in full flight and signalled a move toward extended improvisation 
and heavier blues rock.

''[[Burgers (album)|Burgers]]'' (1972) was their first studio album in the electric mode 
and remains one of their most celebrated records. It featured a full band lineup including 
drummer Sammy Piazza and showcased Kaukonen's songwriting alongside the blues covers 
that had defined the early period. The record's combination of slide guitar, grounded 
bass work from Casady, and loose, confident arrangements made it a touchstone for 
fans of the era.

Further albums followed through the mid-1970s, including ''[[The Phosphorescent Rat]]'' 
(1974) and ''[[America's Choice]]'' (1975), both continuing in the electric vein. 
The band toured extensively during this period, developing a reputation as a formidable 
live act. Drummer Bob Steeler replaced Piazza and remained with the band for several years.

The band began to lose momentum toward the end of the decade as the musical landscape 
shifted and internal energy flagged. They effectively dissolved in 1978, with Kaukonen 
and Casady each pursuing solo work and other projects.