Record Reviews
43 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | BAKERLOO ~ BAKERLOO (EXPANDED EDITION)
ESOTERIC 2468 (Barcode: 5013929456846) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the only album by the obscure British trio BakerlooFind albums by this artist, which comprised of guitarist Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Terry PooleFind albums by this artist and drummer Keith BakerFind albums by this artist. The original album presented seven tunes, five of which were co-written by Clempson and Toole (and Baker on one of them), one was a blues standard and one was an arrangement of a Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist composition (the same composition was also recorded by Jethro TullFind albums by this artist and released as "Bouree" on their second album "Stand UpFind albums with this title"). This remastered and expanded edition adds five bonus tracks, which are a B-side, a couple of alternate tracks and a couple of previously unreleased tracks.
The music is floating somewhere between Blues-Rock and early Progressive Rock, featuring brilliant guitar work by Clempson, who of course was about to join Colosseum soon after Bakerloo disbanded and achieve world fame. The fact that this album was dug up is primarily due to the fact that Clempson plays on it, although with all fairness it is a solid release worth being remembered. The last track on the original album is an extended piece which last for about fifteen minutes, which of course hints as to the Proto-Prog connection of the band and its music.
The British Blues Revival produced hundreds of bands similar to Bakerloo in the late 1960s, most of which tried to copy bands which already achieved fame and acclaim, like CreamFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist´s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist, Fleetwood MacFind albums by this artist, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Ten Years AfterFind albums by this artist and many others. Many of these bands never managed to make an album at all, many others recorded one album, like Bakerloo, which disappeared into the vaults of record labels, and are now occasionally rediscovered by reissue labels.
Guitar freaks will find this album highly exciting, as Clempson plays much more aggressively and prominently on this album than at any other point of his career, obviously due to the fact that he was the leading voice in this trio and there were no restrictions whatsoever. Some of his neck-breaking / hair-raising solos on this album are completely unrepeatable.
Overall this is a great trip down the memory lane and the remastered music sounds superbly fresh and is highly enjoyable, again emphasizing the fact that those were the most productive years in British (and worldwide) music scene, sadly long gone, albeit not forgotten. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 21/01/2017Posted: 21/01/2017 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC CLAPTON ~ ERIC CLAPTON (DELUXE EDITION)
POLYDOR 877849 (Barcode: 602498396070) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2006
I still remember very well holding this album in my hands for the first time. It was 1970 and Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist was God! Clapton’s brilliant career, which developed in the late 1960’s from YardbirdsFind albums by this artist via John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist via CreamFind albums by this artist and finally Blind FaithFind albums by this artist created one of the mightiest Rock legends in all times, namely a Guitar Superstar (rivaled only by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist).
Clapton’s debut album as a solo artist was probably one of the most anticipated albums in the history of Rock. As usual in such cases, when Clapton’s fans (which numbered in many millions around the world) got eventually to hear the album, their consternation had no limits. It is hard to imagine the scale of the metamorphosis that Clapton went through in just a few months (at least in the public eye), which led to this album. He tried to run away from the Guitar Superstar image with all his might and the album includes (almost) no guitar solos, surely nothing even near to his extravagantly long improvisations he used to perform (especially in Cream). Many fans were of course bitterly disappointed and dismissed the album as “Pop”.
The events that led to the album are as follows: During the 1969 Blind Faith US tour Clapton met Delaney BramlettFind albums by this artist and Bonnie BramlettFind albums by this artist, known as Delaney & BonieFind albums by this artist, who were their act openers. A close musical friendship developed between them and when the Blind Faith tour was over (and the group practically disbanded) Clapton joined the Bramletts’ group and toured with them. A brilliant live album was recorded in 1969 (“On Tour With Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title”) and when Clapton started the recording sessions for his first solo album he invited the Bramletts and their excellent band to serve as the backbone of his studio cast. The album was recorded in the late 1969 and early 1970 in the US and UK.
The result was a wonderful (and completely new) mixture of styles and genres, mostly rooted in American music, which included Blues, Gospel, Soul, Rhythm And Blues, Rock and Pop. This strange brew ;) worked exceptionally well and listening to this album without pre-conceptions is really great fun. Clapton delivers a lot of nice guitar licks (mostly in the background) and soulful vocals as well as a bunch of well-crafted songs (most were co-written with Delaney Bramlett). The supporting band is superb all the way and the result is a classic of the era. The new edition brings out a complete new mix of the album done by Delaney Bramlett, which is quite different from the originally released version mixed by the mighty Tom DowdFind albums by this artist, as well as a bunch of previously unreleased tracks. This is a splendid opportunity to find a space on your shelves for another classic.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CREAM ~ GOODBYE TOUR LIVE 1968
POLYDOR 602577952999 (Barcode: 602577952999) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2019
This is an archival Box Set collecting four live shows by the iconic British supergroup CreamFind albums by this artist, recorded during the groups final American tour in October 1968 (Oakland, LA and San Diego) and the final UK concert at the Royal Albert Hall in November 1968. None of this material was previously released on CD. The 4CD set is lavishly packaged with a book full of great photographs and a lengthy essay by David FrickeFind albums by this artist.
Guitarist Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and drummer Ginger BakerFind albums by this artist managed to revolutionize Rock music during the short time they stayed together, pioneering everything that defines Rock by crystalizing its ingredients: riffs, Blues changes, power trio setting, extended soloing and most of all incredible inventiveness and stamina. Most of the original material in Cream’s repertoire was composed by Bruce, featuring lyrics by the poet Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, but they also played their interpretations of Blues standards.
But Cream were also way beyond what is commonly defined as Rock. Bruce and Baker pioneered Jazz-Rock Fusion a few years earlier when playing in groups led by Graham BondFind albums by this artist, and both had Jazz upbringing in them, which often came to the surface during their lengthy improvisations, which characterized their live performances. Clapton, who did not have a Jazz background, invented the Rock improvisation singlehandedly, opening the path to many great guitar players that followed in his path as Rock improvisers: Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist and others.
The music included in this Box Set is a wonderful opportunity to study the modus operandi Cream developed over time, and although the four concerts are based on a very similar set lists, each and every one of the four versions of the same tune are completely different in every aspect. There are subtle tempi changes, different dynamics, bass patterns and obviously each of the guitar solos is a world in itself.
Listening to the bass playing reveals the genius of Bruce, who was definitely the greatest virtuoso of the bass guitar in all times. Baker, who learned to play drums from the great British Jazz drummer Phil SeamenFind albums by this artist, was also one of the most unique Rock drummers of all times and his drum soli are absolutely unique to this very day. This album is a great tribute to these two Giants, both sadly no longer with us.
Overall, the music this album presents, despite of being five and a half decades old, is still some of the finest Rock achievements in the entire history of the genre. There is no need to recommend this album to veteran Rock fans, but there a billions of people who never even heard one note of this, which explains why this world looks like it does :) My suggestion to the Jazz lovers among my readers would be to give it a listen and discover not only how it swings, but also where the sources of the Jazz-Rock Fusion Nile originate from.
| | Updated: 28/01/2022Posted: 28/01/2022 | CD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARTUR DUTKIEWICZ ~ HENDRIX PIANO
PIANOART 5907760035028 (Barcode: 5907760035028) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2010
This is the fourth album as a leader by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Artur DutkiewiczFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic Jazz piano trio setting with bassist Darek OleszkiewiczFind albums by this artist (bassist Daniel BielFind albums by this artist plays on three tracks) and drummer Sebastian FrankiewiczFind albums by this artist as his partners. The music, as the title suggests, is a tribute to the legendary American guitarist / songwriter Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist and presents nine instrumental arrangements of songs from his repertoire, seven of them composed by Hendrix and two composed by others. The album was recorded at the excellent Studio Tokarnia and was engineered by Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist with spectacular sonic results
This album was recorded at the same sessions which produced the previous album by Dutkiewicz, called "Niemen ImprowizacjeFind albums with this title", which pays tribute to the music of Czeslaw NiemenFind albums by this artist, the legendary Godfather of Polish Pop / Rock. Therefore these two albums share not only the recording dates but also basically the same musical concept, i.e. the transformation of Pop / Rock music into the mainstream Jazz environment.
Of course the music of Hendrix, who was a major Rock star with a worldwide following, was already arranged and performed by many Jazz artists earlier, with varying results, some absolutely spectacular and other utterly worthless. Although seemingly words apart, Niemen and Hendrix shared one obvious characteristic: their deep affinity to the Blues, which Dutkiewicz cleverly exploits on both these albums, and uses this opportunity to highlight his own Blues chops.
The fact that these two albums were recorded basically together and present a common concept obviously "asks for" a comparison, which I´d rather avoid, but unfortunately that is quite impossible. Personally this album works slightly less effectively for me than its companion, which probably has nothing to do with the music but my own perception of the music Hendrix created and I was fortunate to hear live on several occasions. I seem to be unable to free myself from the stunning guitar sound which my memory / brain stores under the Hendrix pointer. This music played by a piano, however well, simply does not cut it for me as well as it should.
But of course this album shares many of the same beautiful qualities present on its companion: great performances, intelligent arrangements, wonderful interplay between the trio members and so on. It is a great piano trio album in every respect and an admirable tribute to the Genius of Hendrix. Obviously Jazz connoisseurs all over the globe should be able to enjoy this music without reservation.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | GIL EVANS ~ SVENGALI
RHINO 081227372026 (Barcode: 081227372026) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2003
American (Canadian born) pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Gil EvansFind albums by this artist was always a beacon of inspiration and a forward thinking innovator, one of the few music individuals that kept pushing Jazz to and beyond its limits. He came to fame after working with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist in the late 1950s and early 1960s, but he continued to produce extraordinary pieces of music until his death in 1988. This album presents a live recording of Evans and his orchestra, performing six extended pieces arranged by him. This reissue includes a full version of one of the tracks as a bonus track, which appears in a shortened version on the original album.
The music on this album presents a superb amalgam of cross-genre influences, encompassing all Jazz sub genres from Free to Jazz-Rock Fusion, bonded together by intricate orchestral arrangements, which no one else but Evans could create. The six pieces vary in style and atmosphere, but the album maintains a cohesive musical approach and the overall result is simply stunning. It is evident that the explosion of Jazz-Rock Fusion influenced Evans, who on this album embraces the (then) new development, including electric instruments in the orchestra, and doing it brilliantly and lovingly. Just a year later Evans will make the ultimate Fusion recording of his career, when the orchestra will record an album of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist music.
The list of musicians participating on this album includes guitarist Ted DunbarFind albums by this artist, tuba player Howard JohnsonFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Billy HarperFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Richard WilliamsFind albums by this artist and Marvin PetersonFind albums by this artist, electric bassist Herb BushlerFind albums by this artist and many others. The individual solos and the overall orchestral performances are all extraordinary and deeply inspiring. The inclusion of synthesizer player David HorowitzFind albums by this artist and his parts on this album are nothing short of prophetic.
In retrospect this is one of the classic recordings of the era, which continues to be completely relevant to this very day, as well as a beautiful document of the Genius of Gil Evans. Every true Jazz connoisseur should have a copy of this album in his collection.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GIL EVANS / ORCHESTRA ~ PLAYS THE MUSIC OF JIMI HENDRIX (EXPANDED EDITION)
RCA 63872 (Barcode: 090266387229) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2005
Pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Gil EvansFind albums by this artist was surely one of the most forward-thinking and open-minded Jazz Masters, who were able to overcome the typical American Jazz snobbery and keep their ears wide-open to anything of interest that was happening outside of the genre´s stifling ramparts. His revolutionary work with Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, one of the first examples of cross-genre music making and amalgamation of World Music elements into Jazz earned him his initial glory and recognition, but Evans remained a pioneer for the rest of his life. He was also the first Jazz personality to recognize and publically acknowledge his admiration of the talents of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, not only as an exceptional guitarist but also as a great composer. Evans approached Hendrix with a cooperation proposal, which Jimi accepted wholeheartedly, but alas Jimi´s untimely death turned all plans into unfulfilled dreams. However, in spite of the disappointment, Evans decided to pay tribute to the genius of Hendrix by recording this exceptional album of arrangements of music composed by Hendrix, performed by his orchestra. This stunning example of Jazz-Rock Fusion is completely different from most other efforts pursued at the time worldwide and demonstrates a perfect marriage between Jazz and Rock in the orchestral realm. The orchestra, which included mostly young and up-coming Jazz virtuosi, features such illustrious players as guitarists John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and Ryo KawasakiFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Lew SoloffFind albums by this artist and Marvin PetersonFind albums by this artist, saxophonists David SanbornFind albums by this artist and George AdamsFind albums by this artist, drummers Bruce DitmasFind albums by this artist and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and many more. Hearing the music of Hendrix in this fantastic setting is an exceptional musical expedition, especially for people who are familiar with the original recordings by Hendrix. Evans finds new hidden facets in this music, which only a great musician can discover, and shares them with the listener, taking him on a journey of discovery. This expanded edition presents all the material on the original LP in unabridged form and adds alternative takes as bonuses. Exceptional stuff and a must for any true music lover!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ ARE YOU EXPERIENCED (EXPANDED EDITION)
SONY 763179 (Barcode: 886976317928) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2010
1st album by the greatest guitar player that ever walked on the face of the earth, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, which completely revolutionized the fate of Rock music as we know it. Endless writings on the subject already detailed the intricacies of this prophetic music, the unearthly talent of Hendrix and the significance of this album in music history, so I won´t bore the reader with my meager explorations on the subject. Suffice to say this was one of the first recordings that truly turned me on and made me realize that Rock can be a creative, meaningful and significant musical experience. I´ve never stopped to listen to this album in the last 43 years since its release and I have no intention to do so up to my last breath. In retrospect it´s interesting to note that this music would have probably never happened if not for the fact that Hendrix was snatched from the American mediocrity and brought over to England, where his genius was appreciated. The support and inspiration Hendrix received from his band members: Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, was a vital component of his breakthrough, as much as the management and support extended by the man, who discovered his genius, Chas ChandlerFind albums by this artist. The European intellectual and artistic Renaissance, which was at its peak in the mid-1960s, with its openness and warm embrace of bold and groundbreaking ideas, music included, allowed Hendrix to find his path and discover his genius, exploring it to the fullest. The result: one of the greatest debut albums ever recorded in music history and an instant classic. This new edition, newly remastered, adds several bonus tracks to the original album´s content as well as a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this album. Need I say more?
| | | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ ARE YOU EXPERIENCED AND MORE
PURPLE HAZE 005 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
The first Jimi Hendrix Experience album from 1967, called `Are You Experienced` was one of the milestones of Rock for generations to come. The revolutionary approach to playing and songwriting, the amazing technique and the inspirational fire were all to serve as a beacon to all Rock artists from that moment on. This album includes the original release and 24 additional tracks from the recording session (outtakes, alternate versions, etc.) which are the entire material the group recorded at that time. A monumental document!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ AXIS OUTTAKES
PURPLE HAZE 002 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
The tracks on this album represent all the surviving outtakes and alternate mixes from the recordings, which form the second Jimi Hendrix Experience album `Axis Bold As Love`. After the explosive debut, `Are You Experienced`, Axis offered a more melodic, lyrical counterpoint and demonstrated quite clearly that Jimi Hendrix was more musician than wild man. It is amazing to hear so much of never previously available studio material here, which gives a unique perspective of the creative process involved in creating this magnificent music. Breathtaking and an absolute must to any Hendrix fan!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ AXIS: BOLD AS LOVE (EXPANDED EDITION)
SONY 762163 (Barcode: 886976216320) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2010
2nd album by the greatest guitar player that ever walked on the face of the earth, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, which continued to revolutionize the fate of Rock music as we know it. Following the release of the debut album "Are You ExperiencedFind albums with this title", Hendrix and his British partners: Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, explored the British Underground and Psychedelic scene, which was at its peak at the time, absorbing the influences and incorporating them into their own music. The resulting album, recorded and released just a few months after the debut album, was another stunning excursion. Much more relaxed and contemplative than the debut album, it was the ultimate Psychedelic trip, with Hendrix guitar magic venturing repeatedly into completely uncharted territory. It was of course a nod in the direction Hendrix was to follow in his next and ultimate masterpiece "Electric LadylandFind albums with this title", which took his ever-expanding musical vocabulary way beyond the Blues and Rock sources. This new edition, newly remastered, adds a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this album. Need I say more?
| | | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ BAND OF GYPSYS
SONY 762394 (Barcode: 886976239428) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2010
4th album by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, the greatest guitar player ever, and his first and only live recording that was released before his untimely death. The Band Of GypsysFind albums by this artist was a short-lived trio, which brought the guitarist together with bassist Billy CoxFind albums by this artist and drummer Buddy MilesFind albums by this artist for the purpose of recording just one album, which Hendrix owed contractually to one of his previous music industry employers in the US as a result of litigation. In the midst of the confusion, which surrounded Hendrix during and after the recording of his last studio album ("Electric LadylandFind albums with this title") he was unable to come up with the highly anticipated follow up. Taking a break from these hectic attempts, he quickly formed the Band Of Gypsys and prepared the trio for the gig, which would be recorded live and produce the legally owned recording, clearing him from this obligation and allowing him to concentrate on recording the next studio album. The whole affair lasted just for about a couple of months, culminating with the 1969 / 1970 New Year recording of four sets at the legendary Fillmore East in NY. They would play only one more gig a month later and disband. Regardless of these convoluted circumstances, this album would become one of the cornerstone recordings of the era, inspiring generations of future musicians, as it was visionary and prophetic in every way. The four new songs Hendrix used for this album were beacons of his new musical direction, mixing Rock, Soul, Rhythm And Blues, Jazz and every other form of popular music known to man at the time, foretelling many new genres that were to be born generations later. The performances are truly inspired, with Hendrix playing some of the most amazing guitar sounds ever recorded, and the energetic and tight support of his rhythm section allowed him to stretch out and fly, soar, skyrocket, dive, freefall and do it again and again. This recording is a time capsule, an essential document not only of a sublime artists but of an era, in fact an end of an era, and what more appropriate anthem for the 1960s could be imagined, other then this album? The rest is of course history; in a few months Hendrix would be dead, the follow up studio album still unreleased, and in the 40 years since the time this music was recorded literally hundreds of live Hendrix recordings would appear in legal, semi-legal, bootleg and complete bogus form – proving beyond any reasonable doubt that the spirit of Jimi Hendrix is still among us.
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ BBC SESSIONS
MCA 111742 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Hendrix, although an American, was `discovered` in the UK and his first recordings, that changed the face of music as we know it, were done there. This double album compiles all the BBC Sessions recorded by the Jimi Hendrix Experience (which included of course 2 Brits) in the years 1967-1969. Among them the great hits as well as much lesser known material. Every piece of music recorded by Hendrix is a treasure, as he was one of the greatest geniouses of the 20th century. These great quality recordings are an absolute treasure!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ BBC SESSIONS (DELUXE EDITION)
SONY 774519 (Barcode: 886977451928) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2010
The BBC vaults are surely the world´s most valuable archive of recorded music when it comes to documenting the Golden Age of late 1960 and early 1970s. Countless albums based on the material recorded by the BBC have been released over time, revealing many previously never heard performances. Most of these recordings are blessed by both a high sonic quality and spirited performances, inspired by the incredible atmosphere, which existed at that time in the various BBC recording facilities, manned by the best sound engineers and producers of the time. The collection of BBC recordings by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist is one of the greatest musical treasures to come out of these vaults. His short career and just a few studio albums leave the numerous fans hungry for additional high-quality material, and this album supplies just that. Almost all of the material presented here was recorded in 1967, with the exception of a few tracks from a TV show in early January of 1969, by which time the Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist was almost on the verge of being disbanded. This new edition also adds some BBC video material as well as one previously unreleased audio track. There is no need to go into the importance of this music, as it is obvious to anybody aware of Rock´s history. It is a Holy Grail from start to finish and an absolutely essential piece of history!
| | | 2CD+DVD 3 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ ELECTRIC LADY STUDIOS: A JIMI HENDRIX VISION
SONY 194398908427 (Barcode: 194398908427) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2024
This is an archival Box Set, which includes material recorded by the Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Billy CoxFind albums by this artist and drummer Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist, captured for posterity in the newly opened Electric Lady Studios in NY between June and August 1970, just before the tragic and unexpected death of Hendrix in September of that year. All the material was recorded and mixed by the legendary studio wizard Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist. The Box Set also includes the documentary “Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Vision”, which tells the story of creation of the Electric Lady Studios. The Box Set includes three CDs and a BD, and a superb booklet with great photographs and detailed description of each track. It was manufactured in 2021 but the distribution was delayed until 2024 for legal reasons.
The 3 CDs present thirty-nine tracks, all bar one previously unreleased. Those are alternate versions, alternate mixes, alternate takes, demos, etc., except for two spontaneous jams, which were just studio time fillers, including a twenty-six minutes long medley.
The BD includes the full documentary and twenty newly remixed tracks in 5.1 Surround Sound, which are basically the “First Rays Of The New Rising SunFind albums with this title” album plus three bonus tracks.
The performances are as stellar as one might expect from this unearthly trio, and these early moments are especially interesting as all three players were always testing the ground and experimenting. The brilliant virtuosity and originality was all there already, so there is nothing for us but to admire once again the best ever Rock guitar player in action, supported by an unstoppable and incredibly sophisticated rhythm section.
Overall, despite the fact that there is no really new material here, as the Hendrix recorded legacy has been truly deeply explored already, this album is an absolute pure gold as far as Rock history is concerned. It does not matter how many Hendrix albums there are already in your collection, this is definitely one of the most fascinating, presenting Hendrix in the studio devoted to create the best music he was able to, a perfectionist to the max.
| | Updated: 17/03/2025Posted: 17/03/2025 | 3CD+BD 4 Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ ELECTRIC LADYLAND (EXPANDED EDITION)
SONY 762164 (Barcode: 886976216429) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2010
3rd and last album by the greatest guitar player that ever walked on the face of the earth, Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, which continued to revolutionize the fate of Rock music as we know it. Following the release of the two stunning albums a year earlier ("Are You ExperiencedFind albums with this title" and "Axis: Bold As LoveFind albums with this title"), Hendrix and his British partners: Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, explored the unchartered territories of Rock beyond anything tried previously, even by the boldest explorers of the genre. In the meantime Hendrix also got exposed to many other musical explorations beyond Rock, mainly to the pioneering Jazz-Rock experimentations of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, which influenced him deeply and were supposed to culminate in actual cooperation, which sadly never materialized. In making this milestone recording, Hendrix fused together everything he knew up to this point of his musical development, the early Blues influences, the Psychedelic music of the British Underground Scene, the new Jazz feel and even Avant-Garde sound experimentation, producing what would become one of the true icons of musical achievement, a timeless tour de force, a magnum opus and a work of a genius. The album also marks the first time Hendrix involved other musicians apart from the trio, like Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist, Al KooperFind albums by this artist and others. One could easily write a whole book just about this album, analyzing its musical values as well as its historical significance, but in all honesty listening to it is all that matters. I have been doing just that for the last 42 years since I got my sweaty hands on the shiny double LP for the first time. It´s been a faithful companion in bad times and good times, never letting me down. It still sounds prophetic, every time I listen to it. This new edition, newly remastered, adds a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this album. Need I say more?
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ FIRST RAYS OF THE NEW RISING SUN (EXPANDED EDITION)
SONY 762168 (Barcode: 886976215828) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2010
This incredible collection of 17 tracks, which were (all except one) recorded by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist during the months shortly preceding his tragic and untimely death in September 1970, are a best possible reconstruction of the next double LP Jimi planned to release under this title as the follow up to "Electric LadylandFind albums with this title". Most of the work on these tracks was done in the newly constructed Electric Lady studio, which was Jimi´s brainchild and dream. Engineered by Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist, the same sound engineer who recorded all Jimi´s studio material, these songs were never finished and polished to perfection the way Hendrix would have probably made them as their final versions, but we´ll never know how that would have turned out. But under these circumstances, whatever is here in whatever shape or stage of completion, is surely important and essential enough to be cherished and remembered, as is every note Hendrix played during his short life.
The music is performed by the usual Hendrix trio Mk II with Billy CoxFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, with several other artists appearing on various tracks. Stylistically the music is quite different from the early Jimi Hendrix Experience material, with Jimi pushing constantly to cover more ground away from the Blues influences into more Rhythm And Blues and even Soul influenced music, in a way coming back full circle to the music he used to play in his formative years. But of course his genus guitar work and vocal delivery make whatever style he was playing in less significant, since anything he touched was, and always will be, first and foremost Jimi Hendrix.
All these songs were previously released on three posthumous Hendrix albums in 1971 ("The Cry Of LoveFind albums with this title" and "Rainbow BridgeFind albums with this title") and 1972 ("War HeroesFind albums with this title"), but grouped together here they are the first proper treatment of this material. This new edition, newly remastered, adds a specially filmed DVD, which explores the process of creating this music. Essential stuff for body and soul!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ HOLLYWOOD BOWL, AUGUST 18, 1967
SONY 196588315626 (Barcode: 196588315626) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2023
This is an archival live album by the legendary Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist, which was previously unreleased. The album presents ten tracks, which are a mixture of original songs and songs by others. Originally recorded on a cassette and offering a pretty Lo-Fi sound quality, the music was restored and remastered by the mythological Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist, and is certainly audible. The fact that previously unreleased material by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist is still being unearthed almost 60 years later is truly astounding.
At the time of the recording, Hendrix and his trio were almost completely unknown in the US, with only one previous appearance at the Monterey Pop Festival a couple of month earlier. The trio was formed in UK and included British bassist Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist and drummer Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist, releasing their debut album in UK in May 1967, which was not released in the US until much later. They made a name for themselves in the UK and Europe, but the US was as yet unconquered.
The performances are as stellar as one might expect from this unearthly trio, and these early moments are especially interesting as all three players were still testing their ground and experimenting, before the wall of sound effect they developed later on was firmly in place. The brilliant virtuosity and originality was all there already, so there is nothing for us but to admire once again the best ever Rock guitar player in action, supported by an unstoppable and incredibly sophisticated rhythm section.
Overall, despite the imperfect sound quality, this album is an absolute pure gold as far as Rock history is concerned. It does not matter how many live Hendrix live album there are already in your collection, this is definitely one of the most fascinating, presenting Hendrix at his most innocent, almost naïve self, before fame, fortune and drugs destroyed him. Long live the Summer Of Love!
| | Updated: 22/12/2023Posted: 22/12/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ JIMI PLAYS BERKELEY
MCA 117209 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
This legendary documentary film now available on DVD for the first time. Filmed on May 30, 1970, this is a cronicle of a 2 sets Hendrix concert on that day and some additional footage about student riots happening at the university. Additinal audio only material includes the entire second set, released for the first time. Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, 50 minutes DVD plus 70 minutes audio. NTSC
| | | DVD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ LIVE AT THE FILMORE EAST
MCA 111931 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
This double album documents the legendary Hendix concerts on the New Year`s Eve (December 31, 1969 & January 1, 1970) at the Filmore East with the Band Of Gypsies trio (Hendrix, Cox & Miles). Hendrix was at the peak of his career and performing ability and these incredible music goes to emphasize his genious in full swing. Every note here screams perfection and after so many years this is still unbeatable and uncontrollably beautiful.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ LIVE AT WOODSTOCK
SONY 780552 (Barcode: 886978055224) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010
As imperfect as the Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist Woodstock appearance is, it is still an iconic moment not only in Rock history but also a turning point in US history. As the closing set of the festival, Hendrix played to a small "leftovers" crowd of the immense human Woodstock gathering, when the almost apocalyptic scenery of garbage and desolation serves as the visual background of his performance in the Woodstock movie. The 1960s were over, for Hendrix, for the US, for the world. The ideology of "Peace and Love", shuttered by the Vietnam War, Cold War, political hypocrisy and false promises of "chasing the buck" were definitely winning. The social unrest and high aspirations to create a "better world" would be also over pretty soon, ultimately making no impact in the big picture. Europe would hold on to the ideology for a bit longer, eventually falling victim to the Golden Calf as well. It was "Apocalypse Now", and Hendrix played the perfect soundtrack for it. With the Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist gone, he put together an ad-hoc band which would fulfill the Woodstock contract; under-rehearsed and not really an organic musical unit, it did its best, which was far from what it could have been. Nevertheless, Hendrix and his musical genius were sp overwhelming, that the Woodstock performance still manages to stand out as an epic piece of Rock music. This album includes the complete Woodstock performance with the exception of two songs, which were purposely omitted, as they didn´t feature him as the leader, which is perhaps for the best. Is this still a valid piece of music in retrospect? Hell yes! It´s stunning, whichever way one looks at it, remaining as iconic now as it was then. Essential!
| | | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ LIVE AT WOODSTOCK / SMASH HITS
MCA 113074 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Hendrix performance at Woodstock is one of the peak moments of the 60´s, as documented in the Woodstock movie. This is another look at the messmerizing moments of one of the most important musical as well as social events of the 20th century comes to its end and the music provides a perfect soundtrack. 57 minutes.
This packages also oncludes as a bonus the Smash Hits compilation audio CD, which was the only collection album released while Hendirix was alive.
| | | DVD+CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ LOS ANGELES FORUM
SONY 196587246723 (Barcode: 196587246723) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2022
The short-lived Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist remains a quintessential icon of the Golden Decade of Classic Rock. A combination of American blues soaked guitar virtuosity of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist and British Rock / Prog influenced bassist (originally a guitarist as well) Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist and Jazz influenced drummer Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist, created a phenomenon way bigger than just a Power Rock trio. Hendrix perfected the Rock improvisation idiom, bringing it to ecstatic heights beyond any other Rock guitarist of his generation and the tightness of the trio defined the parameters of the Power Rock idiom.
This album is an archival live recording, captured at the Los Angeles Forum on April 26, 1969 at the last leg of the last Experience American tour. The internal tensions and other circumstances would tear the trio apart soon after. The concert was recorded and intended to be released as a live album, but that never materialized. Although the recordings present here were previously scattered on several collection albums, the concert in its entirety appears here for the first time, and the new remix, by the legendary studio engineer Eddie KramerFind albums by this artist, improves the aural experience considerably. The material includes the usual mixture of original material and favorite covers by the trio, with no special surprises. The booklet includes some fine photographs and interesting liner notes, describing the historical background of this recording.
Overall, although not particularly innovating to the Hendrix crowd, this is still a great time capsule, documenting a unique phenomenon called Jimi Hendrix Experience, which although recorded over five decades ago, sounds today infinitely better than most Rock music recorded since. An absolute must to all Hendrix enthusiasts!
| | Updated: 02/12/2022Posted: 02/12/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ NO MORE A ROLLING STONE
PURPLE HAZE 004 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
This album includes two entire Experience concerts from 1967 - the legendary Monterey International Pop Festival and the Stockholm appearance later that year (September). Recorded just a few months apart, the concerts clearly show the constant development of Jimi`s approach to music and the evolvement of his incredible talents. Several songs are present in both concerts, making the comparison easy and the results evident. A superb document not only of Jimi`s music, but of the Summer of Love as well.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ STOCKHOLM CONCERT
PURPLE HAZE 003 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded on January 9, 1969 this magnificent album captures two sets of the Experience, after they had been together for almost two years and perfected their act to the finest detail. Hendrix plays like there is no tomorrow and between the two sets all the greatest songs they ever recorded get a fresh treatment, full of imagination, virtuosity and imagination. These surely are some of the best moments in the history of rock music.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ THE RAINBOW BRIDGE CONCERT
PURPLE HAZE 001 ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Long considered the `holy-grail` amongst Hendrix collectors, this album contains the complete Rainbow Bridge concert filmed in Hawaii on July 30th, 1970. The film, which is available since many years, features just a small part of the music included here, so the joy to be able to hear so much prime quality never previously avilable material is sky high. Hendrix, Mitchell & Cox storm the stage with unprecedented power and virtuosity. The two concert sets comprise of completely different tunes, so there are no repeated songs at all. An absolute gem not only for Hendrix many admireres, but to any serious rock enthusiast.
| | | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JIMI HENDRIX ~ VALLEYS OF NEPTUNE
SONY 764056 (Barcode: 886976405625) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010
Holding a new album by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, released forty years after his death, is surely an once-in-a-lifetime experience for someone, like me, for whom the music of Hendrix has been the soundtrack of his life. Anything I can say here is completely insignificant in comparison to the anticipation and then the excitement of pushing the play button with this album inside the CD player for the first time. The plethora of posthumous Hendrix albums on the market are all live recordings of various quality and often of almost unlistenable quality, so hearing twelve pristine studio recordings, previously unreleased and mostly previously unheard, is a momentous event for any Rock fan on this planet. The legendary status achieved by Hendrix over the years and the influence of his music, most of which was recorded in a brief three years period, is completely unprecedented in music history. Although Hendrix managed to win an immediate acceptance and massive popularity following the release of his debut album in 1967, his true musical genius came to be appreciated over the years with ever increasing intensity. Generation after generation of musicians and listeners realized that his prophetic musical vision, combining cross-genre idioms and breaking established barriers was eons ahead of its time and remains completely exceptional and solitary in contemporary music history. Most of the music included on this album was recorded by the original Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist, with Noel ReddingFind albums by this artist on bass and Mitch MitchellFind albums by this artist on drums, between February and September 1969, in an attempt to assemble material for the follow up album to the "Electric LadylandFind albums with this title" masterpiece released the year before. Three tracks feature bassist Billy CoxFind albums by this artist, summoned by Hendrix from the US to replace Redding due to a personal drift between the two, which ultimately led to the demise of Experience and the formation of the Band Of GypsysFind albums by this artist lineup with Buddy MilesFind albums by this artist. Some of the songs included here are known to Hendrix followers in their live versions, but these studio recordings present them in a much more precise and solidified form, which were the basis for future expanded and improvised upon live versions. Unfortunately, as we all know, the follow up album never materialized and with Hendrix tragically dead soon after, this is the closest we are ever going to be able to enjoy and cherish. I´m confident that in time, when all this new material truly sinks in, after repeated listening, it is inevitably bound to become an extension of the glorious Hendrix legacy we are privileged to enjoy due to his timeless, extraordinary genius. Thank you God for being able to experience Hendrix!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAWDA JOBARTEH / STEFAN PASBORG ~ LIVE IN TURKU
APRIL 125 (Barcode: 5709498112527) ~ DENMARK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024
This is a live album by the duo of Gambian kora player Dawda JobartehFind albums by this artist and Danish Jazz drummer Stefan PasborgFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, two each composed by Jobarteh and Pasborg, two are Jazz standards and one is a traditional tune. This is the 2nd album by the duo.
The album sounds more like Psychedelic Rock from the 1970s, rather than an amalgam of West African music and Jazz, mainly due to the heavily amplified kora and powerful drumming, but of course the Jazz-World Fusion elements are also there, as expected, somewhat hidden beneath the surface. The result is very unusual and even sensational to a degree, which of course is always a welcome surprise.
Both musicians are Masters of their instruments and obviously enjoy the musical rapport between them, which seems to have no clearly set stylistic boundaries. Personally I sort of miss the natural / acoustic sound of the kora, which is usually deeply lyrical, but I appreciate the attempt to take the instrument into new area, where it sounds more like electric guitar. I am not familiar with other recordings by Jobarteh, so I don’t know if this is his usual approach to this instrument. I also suppose that Pasborg’s drumming style herein is primarily accommodating the Rocky guitar-like excursions.
Overall, this is a highly unusual album, which offers a Jazz-Rock Fusion musical excursion disguised as a Jazz-World Fusion one, but nevertheless remains to be exciting, surprising and educational. Appearances can be deceptive, and in this case they surely are, but all for the good. This album might be as exiting to Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist fans, as to kora and West African music enthusiasts. Definitely worth investigating!
| | Updated: 23/05/2024Posted: 23/05/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAREK KADZIELA ~ JAZZ ENSEMBLE
AUDIO CAVE 2021/004 (Barcode: 5908298549254) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2021
As hard as it is to believe, this is only the second album as a leader by Polish Jazz guitarist / composer Marek KadzielaFind albums by this artist, this time recorded in a quintet setting with his brother saxophonist Maciej KadzielaFind albums by this artist, trombonist Jacek NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel PuszczaloFind albums by this artist and drummer Radoslaw BolewskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by Marek Kadziela.
During the second decade of the 2000s Kadziela participated in numerous recordings and co-led several Polish and international ensembles, as diverse as Hunger PangsFind albums by this artist, JazabuFind albums by this artist, K.R.A.N.Find albums by this artist and KaMaSzFind albums by this artist as well as his own ADHDFind albums by this artist. These recordings present a restless, searching spirit, who is constantly trying to re-invent himself and drive towards uncharted territory, crossing genres with ease and competence. Over the years I have had the pleasure to listen to him live as well, which often exposed other aspects of his wide-ranging musical personality. There is no doubt that during that time he established himself not only as one of the leading Polish guitarists, but also as an important leader and trendsetter.
In many respects this album (as Kadziela himself states on the album’s liner notes) is an amalgamation of his experiences up to now, with an emphasis on composition, as much as on his guitar playing skills. The rather unusual sounding ensemble highlights his originality as a sound creator, which enhances the acoustic quintet with skillful use of electronics, creating a modern, somewhat rough and toothed exterior, which hides the melodic contents, without damaging it.
The individual performances are all absolutely stunning, with the leader moving between Wes MontgomeryFind albums by this artist and Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist and back in an instant, always being himself. Namyslowski is a surprise as his playing is more open and daring than usual and the rhythm section does a wonderful job driving the music forward and filling the blanks.
Overall this is a wonderful modern Jazz album, full of great music and intricate individual performances, not easy on the ear and demanding attentive listening, but highly rewarding. Although Kadziela made a giant step forward in his career, deep down he is still a Blues / Rock kid who loves to show his guitar licks, which I personally love as much as all the serious stuff he is playing. Having said that, this album is almost completely free of any Fusion accents, announcing the leader’s full commitment to the Jazz idiom. Hats off!
| | Updated: 10/04/2021Posted: 10/04/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ORFEUS / HASSE WALLI & ZEUS ~ POP LIISA VOL. 15 & VOL. 16
SVART 088 (Barcode: 6430065583523) ~ FINLAND ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2017
The Finnish Rock band OrfeusFind albums by this artist, formed in 1971, followed the same path that many other similar bands also traveled on, starting as an impressive Progressive Rock outfit and by the mid 1970s switching gradually into more commercial, mainstream Rock oriented act. At the time this live radio broadcast was recorded, they were at the peak of their Prog period, as this performance undoubtedly proves. Organist Heikki HiekkalaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jan OdnerFind albums by this artist, bassist Klaus StoltFind albums by this artist and drummer / vocalist Urpo LeppanenFind albums by this artist perform just four lengthy covers of highly ambitious material (The BandFind albums by this artist, Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist. Jack BruceFind albums by this artist and Pink FloydFind albums by this artist), which feature the heavenly sound of early 1970s, with heavy Hammond parts, screaming guitars solos and high-pitched vocals (in English) as appropriate for the Prog of the time. It is a great reminder what Prog was all about during its first reign, to which it sadly never managed to return again.
Guitarist Hasse WalliFind albums by this artist is rightly considered as the Godfather of modern Finnish Rock. He was the lead guitarist of Blues SectionFind albums by this artist, the band that started it all and spawned Tasavallan PresidenttiFind albums by this artist and WigwamFind albums by this artist. He formed the band Hasse Walli & ZeusFind albums by this artist in 1972 after a period of inactivity caused by an injury, joined by four excellent musicians: guitarist Tommy KnifFind albums by this artist, bassist Renne AngelvuoFind albums by this artist and drummer Ari ValtonenFind albums by this artist. The group existed for a brief period of time and didn´t manage to record an album, and this live radio broadcast is the only recorded evidence of their existence. They perform four extended pieces, three covers (Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Frank Zappa, and Bob DylanFind albums by this artist) and one original by Walli. As with the Orfeus set, this is a wonderful reminder of what Classic Rock / Prog sounded at their best. This "Popstudio" broadcast is the earliest of those included in this wonderful series.
Overall this is some of the most staggering music created in Europe in the early to mid 1970s that one is able to hear and for Classic Rock and Prog-heads this is an absolute must have!
Side Note
The Finnish independent label SvartFind albums on this label Records released an unprecedented series of albums called Pop Liisa and Jazz Liisa, which present priceless historical recordings of Finnish Rock, Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz music, recorded live and broadcasted from the Liisankatu Studios in Helsinki under the "Popstudio" and "Jazzstudio" monikers between 1972 and 1977. The studios were owned by the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company), a public broadcasting service, which not only allowed the burgeoning Finnish music scene at the time to be exposed but also carefully archived the recordings for future generations. All this incredible music was previously unissued and collectively is probably the most important document of Finnish music from that period ever assembled.
The music was released on 36 LPs (Pop Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18 and Jazz Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18) and on 18 CDs with every two consecutive volumes combined on one CD.
The sound quality is absolutely superb, often better than the sound quality on the LPs released by these artists at the time. Many of the groups appearing on these albums never managed to record an album and these recordings are the only recorded legacy in existence of their activity. The released are accompanied by well researched and intelligent liner notes.
This archival project is an outstanding example of how Cultural Legacy should be treated as well as of exemplary dedication to record producing professionalism.
| | Updated: 14/05/2020Posted: 14/05/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | REUTER / MOTZER / GROHOWSKI ~ SHAPESHIFTERS
MOONJUNE 103 (Barcode: 692287910327) ~ GERMANY ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020
This is an album by a trio comprising of German touch guitarist Markus ReuterFind albums by this artist and American guitarist Tim MotzerFind albums by this artist and drummer Kenny GrohowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents four "instant compositions" recorded live and credited to all three members of the trio.
The music is exactly what one might expect from three free spirited musicians, who engage into a conversation, which has no pre-conceived subject matter, other than the collected musical experience each of these musicians brings with him into the melting pot. The four instantly created pieces of music are a snapshot of the event, which enable the listener to probe the musical universe created at the spur of the moment and make from it whatever his mind is capable to encompass.
Considering the fact that these musicians have a "past" connected to what for lack of a better definition can be labeled as Rock, the resulting music is a form of Free Rock, quite similar in concept to the modus operandi of Free Jazz, at the time it was first encountered in the 1960s. The existence of contemporary technology, electronics and the entire paraphernalia at hand expands of course the possibilities that were available to John ColtraneFind albums by this artist while playing his saxophone, or Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist playing his guitar for that matter, but the process of "letting go" of the methodical "playing" and shifting the process of creating sound into the spiritual / metaphysical plane is in fact similar.
This music is first and foremost associative, or more exactly extrovertly associative, since all brain activity is a priori associative, and so is the process of listening to this music. Nobody can be teleported back within the space-time continuum back into the venue where this music was recorded in order to experience the music at first hand, so the only option left is let one´s brain to react to whatever enters via the ears and create one´s own "music", which is what happens anyway while listening to music, but this time without the availability of familiar patterns we already associated with music earlier on.
This music is obviously not for a wide audience. Playing and recording this kind of sonic creations has serious intrinsic limitations as far as communication with audiences is concerned. Sometimes this kind of music can work live but only very rarely it is able to be "frozen" in recorded form and preserve its ability to communicate while reproduced at the listener´s home. There is no way to measure the rate of success of such endeavors, but it certainly is limited. Therefore I can only state that this particular shapeshifting attempt works splendidly in my case, but how other will react I have no clue. Kudos to the shapeshifters for the courage and open-mindedness!
| | Updated: 28/09/2020Posted: 28/09/2020 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | SAVOY BROWN ~ AIN`T DONE YET
QUATRO VALLEY 0129 (Barcode: 805859074123) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2020
The title says it all; the unstoppable Blues machine called Savoy BrownFind albums by this artist is rolling on in its sixth decade bravely led by vocalist / guitarist Kim SimmondsFind albums by this artist, currently in a trio lineup with bassist Pat DesalvoFind albums by this artist and drummer Garnet GrimmFind albums by this artist. The new album presents ten original songs, all by Simmonds.
Despite the limitations that the Blues format imposes on the music, the idiom is alive and kicking sounding healthier than most of it children within the Pop and Rock idioms, proving the "if it ain´t broke don´t fix it" advice. This music does not sound much different from what Savoy Brown and the entire Blues Revival generation played in the 1960, and yes it still manages to sound fresh and exciting, provides the listener is a Blues enthusiast of course.
Simmonds, perhaps not the most spectacular Blues Rock guitarist of the class of Peter GreenFind albums by this artist, Rory GallagherFind albums by this artist or Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, manages to produce the unmistakable "Blues guitar sound", which works for our generation like nothing else and he has one undeniable advantage – he is still alive and kicking.
For the numerous Savoy Brown fans and followers this album is as enjoyable and exciting as everything else the group produced over the years; they just can´t go wrong. Warmly recommended!
| | Updated: 30/09/2020Posted: 30/09/2020 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ FUTURE GAMES / SPIRIT OF 84
BGO 0657 (Barcode: 5017261206572) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1976 - 1984 Released: 2005
This is a reissue of two albums by the seminal American Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist. Those are the last two of the five albums released by the MercuryFind albums on this label Records label, following the five albums the group released on OdeFind albums on this label and EpicFind albums on this label labels. The albums are separated by seven years of hiatus, which characterized most of the late years if the group´s career.
In between these two albums Spirit released the "The Adventures Of Kaptain Kopter & Commander Cassidy In Potato LandFind albums with this title" album in 1981, which included material recorded in 1972 and 1973 and was partly re-recorded in 1981.
"Future GamesFind albums with this title", originally released in 1977, was practically a solo album by guitarist / composer Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist, who wrote almost all the songs and played most of the instruments, assisted only by Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist on drums and a few unspecified guests. It emphasized California´s superb songwriting and spectacular guitar playing, often compared to that of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, who is given a tribute by including the Bob DylanFind albums by this artist´s "All Along The Watchtower" all time classic associated with the Godly version performed by Hendrix.
The album is a masterpiece of late Psychedelic Rock, presenting twenty-two short songs creating a fascinating Sci-Fi like story. California used novel (at the time) studio techniques and completely unprecedented use of multi-layered sound effects and other studio paraphernalia. It still sounds absolutely innovative today, well over four decades later.
"Spirit Of 84Find albums with this title", released as "The Thirteenth DreamFind albums with this title" outside of the US, was recorded by a reunited lineup of Spirit, which included apart from California and Cassidy also original members Jay FergusonFind albums by this artist on vocals and guitar, John LockeFind albums by this artist on keyboards and Mark AndesFind albums by this artist on vocals and bass, as well as a bunch of guest musicians. The original lineup was reunited for the first time since the recording of the classic "Twelve Dreams Of Dr. SardonicusFind albums with this title" album in 1970 (hence the title).
The material includes several remakes of old songs from the first four albums by the group as well as a few new songs, recorded "live in the studio". Although obviously opportunistic / nostalgia based, this is still some of the best American Rock even created, and these fine musician performing together are simply unbeatable.
Overall this is Classic Rock stuff that nobody makes today, hence an absolute must to any serious Rock fan and record collector!
| | Updated: 12/09/2020Posted: 12/09/2020 | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ SON OF SPIRIT / FARTHER ALONG
BGO 0644 (Barcode: 5017261206442) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1975 - 1976 Released: 2004
This is a reissue of two albums by the seminal American Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist. Those are the second and third albums released by the MercuryFind albums on this label Records label, following the five albums the group released on OdeFind albums on this label and EpicFind albums on this label labels.
"Son Of SpiritFind albums with this title" was mostly a collection of ten songs recorded during the sessions held in early 1975. These sessions, produced such an abundance of material that it did not fit on the 2LP album "Spirit of `76", which was its predecessor, and was used to create this follow up album.
The music was recorded by guitarist / composer Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist, who wrote almost all the songs and played most of the instruments, assisted only by Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist on drums. It emphasized California´s superb songwriting and spectacular guitar playing, often compared to that of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist.
The album is a masterpiece of late Psychedelic Rock. California used novel (at the time) studio techniques and completely unprecedented use of multi-layered sound effects and other studio paraphernalia. It still sounds absolutely innovative today, well over four decades later.
"Farther AlongFind albums with this title" was recorded by an almost reunited lineup of Spirit, which included apart from California and Cassidy also original members, John LockeFind albums by this artist on keyboards and Mark AndesFind albums by this artist on vocals and bass (missing only Jay FergusonFind albums by this artist from the original lineup), with Matt AndesFind albums by this artist on vocals and guitar, as well as a bunch of guest musicians. Orchestral arrangements including horn and string sections were also used on some of the songs.
The material includes twelve songs, all but one new with just one remake of an old song. As usual all the songs are originals, mostly by California or co-composed by the group members. The overall sound and atmosphere are a return to the classic Spirit albums from the first period and offers some of the best American Rock even created, and these fine musicians performing together are simply unbeatable.
Overall this is Classic Rock stuff that nobody makes today, hence an absolute must to any serious Rock fan and record collector!
| | Updated: 17/09/2020Posted: 17/09/2020 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPIRIT ~ TWO SIDES OF A RAINBOW: LIVE AT THE RAINBOW 1978
ESOTERIC 2704 (Barcode: 5013929480483) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2019
This is an archival / reissue album by the American Rock group SpiritFind albums by this artist recorded live at London´s Rainbow Theatre. After five year absence from the UK scene Spirit returned as a lean and mean power trio with Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist on vocals and guitar, Larry KnightFind albums by this artist on bass and Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist on drums. The Rainbow was intended as a location to record a live album and the concert was indeed recorded, but sadly it turned out that California´s guitar track was left unrecorded. This resulted in the need of the guitar to be re-recorded and overdubbed with the live tracks, producing no less than three somewhat different versions of the album being released: "LiveFind albums with this title" in UK, "Made In GermanyFind albums with this title" in Germany and "Live SpiritFind albums with this title" in the US.
Three decades later a board mix cassette was discovered, which captured the entire Rainbow show, including the six encores, and after some serious repair work the entire show and the remastered edition of "Live Spirit" were released as a 2CD album "Two Sides Of A RainbowFind albums with this title" in 2012, sadly making very little impact at the time. This reissue offers another careful remaster of the entire content and elegant packaging, as always with EsotericFind albums on this label Records, and is another attempt to bring this great music to the attention of Rock and Spirit fans.
The music includes mostly original material from the fabulous Spirit songbook, most written by California and two by Jay FergusonFind albums by this artist, but also a few covers of Bob DylanFind albums by this artist and other songs associated with Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist. The Spirit songs get a much more Hard Rock oriented treatment, in contrast to the finesse and complex vocal harmonies that characterize the studio versions of these songs. The focus of this album is obviously on California´s guitar pyrotechnics, in which he clearly pays tribute to the legacy of Hendrix.
By the time this music was recorded, Classic Rock was slowly disintegrating and this album is a wonderful document of the last great days of idiom, soon to be gone. Spirit was undoubtedly a manifestation of the finest aspects of American Rock, leaving a unique and completely idiosyncratic legacy, which deserves to be remembered. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 10/07/2020Posted: 10/07/2020 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEPHEN STILLS / MANASSAS ~ MANASSAS
ATLANTIC 075678280825 (Barcode: 075678280825) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 1996
This is the debut album by the short-lived excellent band ManassasFind albums by this artist led by legendary American Rock icon Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist which also included ex-ByrdsFind albums by this artist / Flying Burrito BrothersFind albums by this artist vocalist / guitarist Chris HillmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Al PerkinsFind albums by this artist, bassist Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Paul HarrisFind albums by this artist, drummer Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist and percussionist Joe LalaFind albums by this artist. Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist bassist Bill WymanFind albums by this artist guests on several tracks. The original double LP album presents twenty one excellent songs, split across the four sides of the two LPs with a separate subtitle for each of the sides, all bar one written or co-written by Stills and superbly performed by the band.
Stills emerges on the album not only as a first rate vocalist, guitarist and bandleader but primarily as a superb songwriter, cementing his status initiated as a member of Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, where he already contributed some of his finest creations and his material featured on the two solo albums released before forming Manassas. Musically the album epitomizes the best of American Rock, which emerged from the amalgam of Blues, Folk and Country music with electric Rock And Roll. Plenty of heartfelt vocals, excellent vocal harmonies and surging guitar work supported by rock steady rhythm section were the ingredients of the irresistible formula that American Rock knew how to push to the max at the time.
In retrospect this album is often considered as one of the top achievements of American Classic Rock in the 1970s, listed side by side such albums as Derek And The DominosFind albums by this artist masterpiece "Layla And Other Assorted Love SongsFind albums with this title". Dedicated to the great and prematurely dead American Rock Heroes: Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Al WilsonFind albums by this artist (of Canned HeatFind albums by this artist) and Duane AllmanFind albums by this artist, Stills clearly defines his influences and pays tribute to the fallen victims of the demanding Rock careers.
An essential piece of the American Classic Rock heritage, this album is a must in any serious Classic Rock collection and definitely worth to be re-discovered by the new generations of listeners.
| | Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 18/01/2019 | CD 1 HDCD Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TEN YEARS AFTER ~ WOODSTOCK 1969
CHRYSALIS 5060516096329 (Barcode: 5060516096329) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by the great British Blues-Rock group Ten Years AfterFind albums by this artist, led by guitarist / vocalist Alvin LeeFind albums by this artist, and including keyboardist Chick ChurchillFind albums by this artist, bassist Leo LyonsFind albums by this artist and drummer Ric LeeFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded on August 17, 1969, the third and last day of the iconic Woodstock festival. The album presents seven tracks (one false start), six of which remained unissued for 50 years, except for the “I’m Coming Home” track, which appeared in the Woodstock movie and original compilation, and which brought the group instant international fame. The remaining six tracks were previously released only as part of the humongous 38CD Box Set, called “Woodstock - Back to The Garden: The Definitive 50th Anniversary ArchiveFind albums with this title”, released in 2019. The remastered and restored sound quality is excellent.
Ten Years After were one of the many British Blues-Rock groups, which sprung out of the British Blues Revival in the 1960s, and thanks to the incredible talent of their leader, who still stands out as one of the greatest guitar players of all time, achieved a wide following worldwide. By the time they played the Woodstock concert, they recorded three albums: the eponymous debut, the live “Undead” and the brilliant “Ssssh”. The set includes songs from all these albums and one song, which was previously unrecorded. Their material included some original compositions, but also classic American Blues standards, which was the accepted modus operandi of all Blues-Rock bands.
Alvin Lee was one of the earlies great Rock Improvisers, and his guitar soli are a textbook example of the idiom. He was able to expand and build up on a simple melody, taking the music into stratospheric heights and creating hyperbolic structures, similar to the work of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist during the CreamFind albums by this artist days and other brilliant musicians at the time. Attentive listeners will easily discover the likeness of his guitar phrasing to that used by Jazz guitarists at the time. His tragically premature death in 2013 at the age of sixty-eight robbed the world of one of the greatest guitar heroes.
On a personal note, the Woodstock memories by the surviving band members, which are quoted in the album’s booklet, are quite identical to mine as a witness of the event, especially the helicopter rides to and from the festival site and the primeval conditions, which at the time did not bother me at all, considering the significance of the momentous experience.
Overall, this is a brilliant piece of music, which lost nothing of its magnificence over time, and is an absolute music to all Blues-Rock lovers, and TYA devotees, who are still out there, unless of course you have already spent the BIG BUCKS (now worth between 2 and 5 K) buying the a.m. Woodstock Box Set.
| | Updated: 24/09/2024Posted: 24/09/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JUKKA TOLONEN BAND / HURMERINTA – SORVALI BIG BAND ~ POP LIISA VOL. 09 & VOL. 10
SVART 015 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1977 Released: 2016
Following the breakdown of the pioneering Finnish group Tasavallan PresidenttiFind albums by this artist in 1974, guitarist / composer Jukka TolonenFind albums by this artist continued his successful solo career, releasing albums on a regular basis. By the time his band was captured playing on this live broadcast, his fourth solo album "HystericaFind albums with this title" was about to be released soon after. The band, which also included saxophonist Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Esa KotilainenFind albums by this artist, bassist Heikki VirtanenFind albums by this artist and drummer Esko RosnellFind albums by this artist, perform four instrumental pieces, all originating from the "Hysterica" album and all composed by Tolonen. These live versions of the pieces are quite different from the studio versions and therefore their inclusion here is a perfect companion to the original album.
The music is almost completely Fusion oriented, with superb soloing by all the band members. Kotilainen´s keyboard performances are probably the only strong link present here to Progressive Rock, but the Fusion elements include also some Funk influences. Considering the fact that the bad collectively comprised of the "hottest" players on the Finnish scene, the fact that all the performances here are simply stellar.
Guitarist Sami HurmerintaFind albums by this artist, his wife vocalist Maarit HurmerintaFind albums by this artist and drummer Upi SorvaliFind albums by this artist put together the Hurmerinta – Sorvali Big BandFind albums by this artist in 1977, combining forces with many musicians they performed and recorded with earlier on, such as British vocalist Frank RobsonFind albums by this artist (ex-Tasavallan Presidentti), trumpeter Esko HeikkinenFind albums by this artist, Romanian trombonist Mircea StanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Pertti PaivinenFind albums by this artist and Pentti LahtiFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Kari KuusamoFind albums by this artist, bassist Harri MerilahtiFind albums by this artist, and second drummer Roope KoistinenFind albums by this artist. This eleven-piece Big Band was not a typical Jazz Big Band, but rather a Brass Rock ensemble with a double vocal front. The Big Band existed for about a year between 1977 and 1978 and never recorded a studio album, so this live broadcast is their only recorded legacy.
The Big Band performs six songs, three of which were written by Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, two by Robson and one by Sami Hurmerinta. Hendrix was an obvious influence on these musicians and the legendary album by Gil EvansFind albums by this artist and his Orchestra "Plays The Music Of Jimi HendrixFind albums with this title" prompted them to form the Big Band in the first place. The music is of course typical of Brass Rock bands of the time, which combined Rock and Jazzy horns sound.
Overall this is some of the most staggering music created in Europe in the early to mid 1970s that one is able to hear and for Fusion and Jazz oriented Prog-heads this is an absolute must have!
Side Note
The Finnish independent label SvartFind albums on this label Records released an unprecedented series of albums called Pop Liisa and Jazz Liisa, which present priceless historical recordings of Finnish Rock, Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz music, recorded live and broadcasted from the Liisankatu Studios in Helsinki under the "Popstudio" and "Jazzstudio" monikers between 1972 and 1977. The studios were owned by the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company), a public broadcasting service, which not only allowed the burgeoning Finnish music scene at the time to be exposed but also carefully archived the recordings for future generations. All this incredible music was previously unissued and collectively is probably the most important document of Finnish music from that period ever assembled.
The music was released on 36 LPs (Pop Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18 and Jazz Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18) and on 18 CDs with every two consecutive volumes combined on one CD.
The sound quality is absolutely superb, often better than the sound quality on the LPs released by these artists at the time. Many of the groups appearing on these albums never managed to record an album and these recordings are the only recorded legacy in existence of their activity. The released are accompanied by well researched and intelligent liner notes.
This archival project is an outstanding example of how Cultural Legacy should be treated as well as of exemplary dedication to record producing professionalism.
| | Updated: 09/05/2020Posted: 08/05/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBIN TROWER ~ AT THE BBC 1973-1975
CHRYSALIS 5099907071324 (Barcode: 5099907071324) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1975 Released: 2011
This is a collection of BBC radio recordings by the British guitarist / composer Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist and his power trio which also included vocalist / bassist James DewarFind albums by this artist and drummers Reg IsidoreFind albums by this artist or Bill LordanFind albums by this artist. The album presents five radio sessions and a concert, which cover the material included on the first three albums by Trower and the trio: "Twice Removed From YesterdayFind albums with this title", "Bridge Of SighsFind albums with this title" and "For Earth BelowFind albums with this title", altogether thirty tracks on two CDs. All the tracks were composed by Trower or co-composed by him and Dewar, and two were co-composed by him and vocalist Frankie MillerFind albums by this artist (see below).
After recording five albums with Procol HarumFind albums by this artist, of which he was a founding member, Trower left the group to join forces with Scottish vocalist Frankie Miller, ex-Stone The CrowsFind albums by this artist bassist James Dewar and ex-Jethro TullFind albums by this artist drummer Clive BunkerFind albums by this artist to form the short lived band JudeFind albums by this artist. After Jude broke up Trower decided to form a guitar power trio, which became his modus operandi for many years to come.
Trower´s guitar playing was often compared to that of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, especially his early trio output heard on this album, but although some stylistic similarities can be clearly heard, Trower always had his very unique idiosyncrasies that set him apart from all other guitarist of the period. They do however share their deep love for the Blues, which profoundly influenced their approach to the instrument.
The music included here is a classic example of British guitar power trio idiom, which started with CreamFind albums by this artist, Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist and Rory GallagherFind albums by this artist´s TasteFind albums by this artist in the late 1960s, and which Trower proudly and very ably continued in the 1970s.
There is no need to emphasize the historic importance of this material, and although the sound quality is a bit muddy at times, the depth and ingenuity of the music is simply stunning. This is an absolute must to the many Trower fans and guitar aficionados the world over!
| | Updated: 20/10/2023Posted: 25/05/2019 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBIN TROWER ~ THE STUDIO ALBUMS 1973-1983
CHRYSALIS 5060516091263 (Barcode: 5060516091263) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1983 Released: 2019
This Box Set presents all ten studio albums recorded by British Rock guitarist / songwriter Robin TrowerFind albums by this artist for the ChrysalisFind albums on this label Records label: "Twice Removed From YesterdayFind albums with this title", "Bridge Of SighsFind albums with this title", "For Earth BelowFind albums with this title", "Long Misty DaysFind albums with this title", "In City DreamsFind albums with this title", "Caravan To MidnightFind albums with this title", "Victims Of The FuryFind albums with this title", "B.L.T.Find albums with this title", "TruceFind albums with this title" and finally "Back It UpFind albums with this title". All these albums feature the guitar power trio format, with slight personnel changes; Trower plays the guitar of course, vocalist / bassist James DewarFind albums by this artist plays and sings on most of the albums except the two collaborations with Jack BruceFind albums by this artist ("B.L.T." and "Truce") and drummers Reg IsidoreFind albums by this artist (who plays on the first two album and "Truce") and Bill LordanFind albums by this artist (who plays on all the other albums except "Back It Up"). A few additional musicians are also involved, like American bassist Rustee AllenFind albums by this artist of Sly & The Family StoneFind albums by this artist fame who plays on "In City Dreams" and "Caravan To Midnight". Almost all the material on these albums was written or co-written by Trower with a few exceptions.
After recording five albums with Procol HarumFind albums by this artist, of which he was a founding member, Trower left the group to join forces with Scottish vocalist Frankie MillerFind albums by this artist, ex-Stone The CrowsFind albums by this artist bassist James Dewar and ex-Jethro TullFind albums by this artist drummer Clive BunkerFind albums by this artist to form the short lived band JudeFind albums by this artist. After Jude broke up Trower decided to form a guitar power trio, which became his modus operandi for many years to come.
Trower´s guitar playing was often compared to that of Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist, especially his early trio output, but although some stylistic similarities can be clearly heard, Trower always had his very unique idiosyncrasies that set him apart from all other guitarist of the period. They do however share their deep love for the Blues, which profoundly influenced their approach to the instrument.
The music included here is a classic example of British guitar power trio idiom, which started with CreamFind albums by this artist, Jimi Hendrix ExperienceFind albums by this artist and Rory GallagherFind albums by this artist´s TasteFind albums by this artist in the late 1960s, and which Trower proudly and very ably continued in the 1970s.
There is no need to emphasize the historic importance of this material, and although the sound quality is a bit muddy at times, the depth and ingenuity of the music is simply stunning. This is an absolute must to the many Trower fans and guitar aficionados the world over!
Side Note
I can´t imagine what Chrysalis Records were thinking when they decided not to include in this Box Set the only live album Trower recorded for them, entitled simply "Robin Trower Live!Find albums with this title". With the inclusion of that album this Box Set would have become "The Complete Robin Trower Chrysalis Recordings", which beyond any doubt almost all people who bought this Box Set would have preferred! The live album was already released as part of the budget "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" series (two volumes), which in turn left out "Back It Up". So the fans and collectors got screwed for the second time! There is no limit to stupidity and meanness!
| | Updated: 01/06/2019Posted: 01/06/2019 | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANK ZAPPA ~ THE BEST BAND YOU NEVER HEARD IN YOUR LIFE
ZAPPA 3881 (Barcode: 824302388129) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2012
This is a reissue / remaster of the 55th album by iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader / visionary Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, originally released in 1991. The 2CD album presents twenty-eight tracks, which include mostly original songs by Zappa, but also several covers of classic Rock songs, including “Stairway To Heaven” (Led ZeppelinFind albums by this artist), “Purple Haze” (Jimi HendrixFind albums by this artist), “Sunshine of Your Life” (CreamFind albums by this artist) and others, which is relatively a rare event on Zappa’s albums. The music was recorded live during Zappa’s 1988 tour, which was sadly his last. It is one of three live albums recorded during this tour, together with “Broadway The Hard WayFind albums with this title” and “Make A Jazz Noise HereFind albums with this title”.
The lineup that recorded the music includes Zappa on guitar and vocals, guitarists Ike WillisFind albums by this artist and Mike KeneallyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Robert MartinFind albums by this artist, percussionist Ed MannFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Walt FowlerFind albums by this artist, trombonist Bruce FowlerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Paul CarmanFind albums by this artist, Albert WingFind albums by this artist and Kurt McGettrickFind albums by this artist, bassist Scott ThunesFind albums by this artist and drummer Chad WackermanFind albums by this artist. It reflects Zappa’s love of orchestral arrangements, which of course were meticulously conceived and brilliantly executed by this excellent team. The undertones of a Broadway show, which this album presents, are a pinnacle of Zappa’s mastery and a cruel twist.
With passing time, Zappa’s cynicism and radical criticism of American politics, organized religion, show business and general stupidity became more bitter and plain painful at times. His idea to shake his audiences, had sadly little effect, as we can see with the world getting worse and stupider consistently. The absurdity of the beautiful melodic songs crafted by Zappa, which were accompanied by his toxic lyrics is absolutely amazing. However, as we all know, protest songs never managed to make a dent in the way our world is being conducted, especially so in America – Woody GuthrieFind albums by this artist, Pete SeegerFind albums by this artist, Bob DylanFind albums by this artist and eventually Zappa, all failed miserably – a magnificent failure it was indeed!
Overall, although thirty-three years passed since this music was recorded, this album remains an absolute Classic in every respect, which stands proudly as an icon of superb music, which still shines brighter than almost anything else recorded since. Zappa’s genius, not only as a musician, but also as a visionary and a brilliant observer of the human condition and American folly and deceit, remain completely relevant and are even more actual today than ever.
Side Note
Frank Zappa created a vast recorded legacy during his lifetime, which is continuously being expanded using music recorded and stored in his extensive vault. The albums officially released and approved by Zappa are numbered sequentially in the "Official Release" series, from #001 to the last release so far #126. The albums between #001 to #062 were released during Zappa's lifetime and all the others were released posthumously. There are countless unofficial / bootleg releases on the market as well.
Zappa's catalogue was remastered for CD release twice: in 1995 for the RykodiscFind albums on this label releases and again in 2012 for the ZappaFind albums on this label Records / UniversalFind albums on this label releases. The Zappa / Universal program includes 60 releases, which cover the entire catalog released during his lifetime (62 releases, except #013 "200 Motels" and the three Box Sets #043, #046 and #049 called "The Old Masters vol.I / II / III"), and 6 posthumous releases (#064, #065, #067, #068, #093 and #094), which were also included.
| | Updated: 22/09/2022Posted: 10/12/2021 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
|
