5 comments about Genesis Live [Definitive Edition Remaster].

1. I've had this on vinyl, then the first release on CD(in abyssmal AAD), and now have the Japanese mini-LP remaster. This is a splendid introduction to the Peter Gabriel-era Genesis. It's an entirely different beast. Kinda dark, and not at all like the pop music they churned out in the 80s-90s.
   This 1972 performance was released(at least in the US) out of sequence in order to capitalize on 1973's more successful "Selling England By the Pound". This show, taken from a radio broadcast, is amazingly pristine. My only gripe is that on the original program there is a stellar rendition of "Supper's Ready". Understandably, this 23-minute piece was way too long to fit on a vinyl LP, but CDs don't have that time constraint. A real shame.



2. English prog rockers Genesis released its fifth album Genesis Live in July of 1973 in the UK and early 1974 in the US.
   For many years this was the only live document in the Genesis catalog from the Peter Gabriel/Phil Collins/Tony Banks/Steve Hackett/Mike Rutherford era (until the release of 1998's Genesis Archive 1967-75 4-CD set).
   Genesis Live documents the group's late 1972/early 1973 tour in support of their excellent fourth album Foxtrot. Shows in England were recorded for a potential King Biscuit Flower Hour radio show broadcast but was released instead as a tie over for fans until the next Genesis album which turned out to be Selling England By the Pound.
   Although it's only a single disc live album leaving the listener hungry for more, there is enough to keep the listener gripped to their stereo systems/CD players and so forth for 45 plus minutes.
   The opening version of the Foxtrot track "Watcher Of The Skies" is possibly the best version of the track as it is more excellent than its studio counterpart (especially keyboard player Tony Banks' stellar keyboard intro). Next is a spirited version of "Get 'Em Out By Friday" which is better than the version taht appeared on Foxtrot. "The Return Of The Giant Hogweed" follows and is an excellent version which keeps one glues to its stereo for almost ten minutes.
   Next is a great version of the early Genesis masterwork from 1971's Nursery Cryme entitled "The Musical Box" which is a great version heard to be believed. The grand finale to this live album is the Trespass closer "The Knife" done with great relish and more gusto than the studio counterpart (probably thanks to addition of drummer Phil Collins and guitarist Steve Hackett in late 1970 to the band).
   Genesis Live reached #101 on the Billboard chart but aside that, Genesis Live is a great document to the early days of the band.
   One more note, Genesis Live was originally planned to be a double live album that also would've included the band's masterpiece "Supper's Ready" but the band and its label decided against it. Thank goodness for the Genesis Archives Vol. 1 box set which was released in 1998 which featured a great live version of "Supper's Ready".
   Genesis Live is still recommended anyhow!



3. Some people may not agree with me when I say that after Peter Gabriel and Steve Hackett left Genesis there was no more Genesis,just a band that tried to stay together as Genesis and succeded in giving the world mediocre renditions of a once great band.
   
   Let us not rush to the conclusion that I am saying that post-Gabriel era did not have its share of good songs.Yes, in fact the next two post-Gabriel studios albums were actually good.However,the Genesis of progressive art rock was lost forever.
   But after years of hashing over the fact that Genesis was redeemable for any effort that claimed them as good as they were is lost.Even when this Collins -Genesis era tried to do Supper's Ready,they do a mere fraction of the grandiose that Gabriel set it up to be: a tale,an acted out skit.The music fit the theme. Collins ,in his half-effort to redeem the classics ends up butchering them.
   
   No, there will never be another Genesis like this one,not even when the three ,Collins,Rutherford and Banks try,they cannot and HAVE NOT re-produced the magic that was once alive in a record of this caliber.
   
   Gabriel is also guilty of having lost the magic with his solo garbage,but so have the other guys,except Hackett,who continually pushes the boundaries of his talents.Gabriel,although not as soft as Collins had a great voice for that type of dramaesque music;it fit the atmosphere.
   
   The fact is that the chemistry has been lost after 1975,nothing sounded as good as this.



4. There has never been a shortage of live albums by Genesis. Genesis' "Genesis Live" is one of five live sets (the other four being "Seconds Out, "Three Sides Live", the two volume "The Way We Walk", and "Live Over Europe"). "Genesis Live" goes back to the very beginning days of Genesis and features the five person lineup of Peter Gabriel, Steve Hackett, Mike Rutherford, Tony Banks, and Phil Collins. "Genesis Live" also is the only Genesis live album to feature Gabriel on lead vocals. This particular live album only contains five tracks, but it showcases the progressive Rock sound the band demonstrated during this
   
   When I look at Genesis as band, I see four distinct phases the band has gone through. Phase 1 is the Peter Gabriel Era. This spans from 1969 ("From Genesis to Revelation") to 1974 ("The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway"). It was during Phase 1 that Peter Gabriel was the lead vocalist and Genesis could easily be categorized as a progressive Rock band. Phase 2 is the Early Phil Collins Era spanning from 1976 ("A Trick of the Tail") to 1982 ("Three Sides Live"). In this era, Phil Collins took over as lead singer. The band was still very much a progressive rock band, but as the progressive rock landscape would change - so would Genesis. This might indirectly have led to Phase 3 which is the Late Phil Collins Era from 1983 ("Genesis") to 1993 ("The Way We Walk Volume 2: The Longs"). This is the commercial/pop era that I referred to earlier. At this point, there would be a lot less progressive rock flavor to Genesis' music. The fourth phase, Phase 4 is the Ray Wilson Era. This was when Ray Wilson took over as lead vocalist for Phil Collins. There would only be one album in this era - 1997's "Calling All Stations" and it seemed like Genesis tried to recapture some of their progressive rock roots - but 90s style. "Genesis Live" was released in Phase 1 and draws tracks from three albums during this period "Trespass", "Nursery Cryme", and "Foxtrot". It is worth noting that while this album was released during Phase 1, there is no representation from Genesis' first album, "From Genesis to Revelation".
   
   When comparing "Genesis Live" to the other Genesis albums, you are not only getting the only Genesis live album with Peter Gabriel, but one that contains the earliest material.
   
   Normally when there is a live release, I prefer the album to be a live recording from a single concert performance. I prefer it to be delivered in the order in which the songs were actually delivered. By having things from a single night and in order - I feel there is continuity and the magic of the concert is captured perfectly. With this particular collection, the tracks were recorded at two venues. From some research, I've determined that four of the five tracks were performed on a single night in February 1973 (De Montfort Hall in Leicester) while one track ("Return of the Giant Hogweed") was performed the night before in Manchester. While all of these tracks are considered normal length by progressive Rock standards, they are still considered longer tracks from popular music standpoint. All of the tracks are over 8 minutes and the total length of the collection is 45+ minutes. It is clear from listening to this music that this performance doesn't represent a single concert. It also is clear that this is a subset of a full concert. It would have been nice to hear the whole concert, but one must remember that back in 1973, LPs held less music than CDs - and there was often pressure to release a single LP as opposed to multiple LPs.
   
   A few observations that I got from "Genesis Live":
   
   1) If you aren't as familiar with Phase 1 Genesis, this is a good place to start. You aren't going to hear this type of stuff with the radio-friendly Genesis music. The most amazing thing is Peter Gabriel's haunting voice that seems perfect suited to the progressive Rock sounds of Genesis.
   
   2) "The Musical Box" might be known to some of the more mainstream fans who purchased the "The Way We Walk Volume 2 - The Longs". On "The Longs", it contains a medley of old Genesis songs simply called "The Old Medley". One of the songs in "The Old Medley" is "The Musical Box" which contains a snippet of "The Musical Box". "Genesis Live" is going to contain a full version that will provide a full appreciation for the progressive Rock roots of the band.
   
   3) The intimate setting for this material will be in stark contrast to the stadium performances done on 2007's "Live Over Europe" set. The intimate setting works very well for this concert. The sound quality is good, but one must keep in mind this material is 35 years old.
   
   4) Tony Banks might be the real star of this performance. His use of the Mellotron on "Watcher of the Skies" is simply masterful - and truly shows progressive Rock at its best. The live version of this song will not disappoint.
   
   As with most live albums, there are no lyrics included. In the liner notes, there is a short story by Peter Gabriel. Overall, as mentioned this is going to be a sampling of the earliest days of Genesis. The only real disappointment is that you are probably are going to be wanting for more music by the band. Die-hard Genesis fans will love this album. Latter day Genesis fans still may want to check out this album and learn more fo the roots of the band.



5. Genesis were formed in early 1967 out of a couple of bands that met at Public School, Charterhouse. (In England, the posh expensive Schools are called Public Schools, which has always puzzled this dog. They certainly were not public as they all cost a fortune to attend). They recorded their first album "Genesis To Revelation" and released it in 1969. That was before the band had even played before a live audience. That by itself is an amazingly long incubation period. They also had already a change of drummers by that time, Chris Stewart left and John Silver (great name for a drummer) came in. This album hardly caused a ripple in record stores round the country, and is unrecognizable as anything Genesis were to do after this point.
   A re-think was in order. It was decided that drummer Silver was unsuitable. Out with him and in came John Mayhew. They all de-camped to a conveniently empty cottage just outside Dorking to work on their sound and a possible stage show. Eventually Tony Stratton Smith signed them to his new Charisma label, which on the strength of watching one dodgy rehearsal, and one badly recorded demo tape, must be one of the most inspired signings in the history of Rock 'n' Roll. The album "Trespass" was recorded and the band began to gig. However, before the album was released disaster stuck.
   Anthony Phillips, original lead guitarist with the band and instrumental in defining the guitar sound that stayed with the band all through their career, decided that the Rock 'n' Roll lifestyle within a band was not for him. At the same time the three remaining original members decided that John Mayhew was not the man to be sitting on the drum stool (scratch deep enough all bands have had their Spinal Tap moments). Replacing Anthony Phillips was not going to be easy, but finally Steve Hackett was found. He was a very earnest and intense young man, whose character was in keeping with his guitar playing.
   The drum stool was the next problem. After fourteen drummers had a go, a certain young chap by the name of Phil Collins answered a Melody Maker small ad and was drafted into the Genesis ranks straight away. As a child actor Phil Collins had been in several T.V. and stage shows including the part of the artful Dodger in the Londoner West End production of "Oliver". After "Oliver" he drummed in several bands, the last of which had been a group called "Flaming Youth". They were just rapping up in the aftermath of some ill advised and unsuccessful publicity, so Phil Collins was glad to get the gig with Genesis. But I am sure the other four did not realize what a useful little chap their new drummer was going to be in years to come.
   So by early 1971 the re-shaped Genesis was finally gathering some real momentum with growing approval from the press and a steadily increasing hard core fan base. Each album they released outstripped the last ("Nursery Cryme" in 1971 and British breakthrough album "Foxtrot", which followed in 1972). By now they were out on the road almost consistently wowing their fans with their unique blend of rock music, dexterous skills, and groundbreaking stage show. A quite remarkable sight on stage they were, too. Steve Hackett would play his blistering solos from a seat on the left hand of the stage, while multi-instrumentalist Mike Rutherfood would wander the stage with his twin necked guitar enabling him to play the bass and twelve string guitar at the same time.
   Tony Banks would be on the right hand side of the stage, almost invisible from the audience as he was completely surrounded by his multi collection of keyboards. But the wonderful wall of sound that became the trademark of Genesis left you in no mind that he was there.
   Then of course, out the front, was charismatic lead singer Peter Gabriel, who would often go through eight costume changes per concert in an effort to better put across the story of each song. Not for Genesis to play short sharp little songs; most clocked in at over eight minutes. The only single that Genesis had released at this point was "The Knife". To accommodate it into the single formula it had literally been cut in two with side `A' being "The Knife - part one" and Side `B' being ''The Knife - part two". That didn't exactly endear them to radio play. So Gabriel's role was crucial in "Genesis" to keep the audience's attention. His flute playing also gave the band an extra dimension.
   While the band was on the tour promoting "Foxtrot", several of the concerts were recorded to give the fans something while they came off the road to record their next album. ("Selling England By The Pound " 1973 became their worldwide breakthrough album for them.)
   Five songs were selected for "Genesis Live", which rocketed into the charts in Britain reaching # 9. What you got were five epics all clocking in at over eight minutes, in all forty five minutes. A lot for the days of vinyl. And although not a whole concert, the running order of the songs worked very well.
   First we have two songs off the "Foxtrot" album, but no problem there as the band had quickly adapted the songs for the road, beefing them up quite considerably. In the case of opener `Watcher of the Skies' Tony Banks had added an awe inspiring opening played on the Mellotrone and the Moog Syntersizer, By the time Phil Collins comes thundering in showing the chops on the drums that would soon have him rated as one of the best drummers in rock music (this was way before anybody had thought about putting him out front to sing), you are already caught up in the web Genesis set out to catch you. Tony Bank's keyboards rather dominate the opener, using the guitars to keep up a strong but slightly slower beat than on the studio album.
   Then Peter Gabriel takes over on `Get'em Out By Friday', a tirade against despicable landlords. Gabriel plays all the roles in different voices. With the amount of energy this must of taken up, it is no real surprise that two years later he stunned the rock world by leaving Genesis when they were on the crest of the wave. `The Return Of The Giant Hogweed' was always a favorite of Genesis fans and was probably as close to actual Rock 'n' Roll that Genesis would ever get to; something to actually bang your head to - heavy metal style. `The Return of the Giant Hogweed' was one of two from "Nursery Crymes", the other one being `The Musical Box'. This is the center piece of this album and shows all the light and dark that the band put into their music. The mid section features a guitar solo from Steve Hackett that would lay the template for all progressive rock guitarists to follow. The final climax to this epic as the band hammer their way home with Gabriel wailing over the top of them all, has often been imitated but never bettered.
   After `The Musical Box' has left you exhausted, the band carries on with a track from "Trespass", `The Knife'. You can tell by the audience reaction to Gabriel's announcement of what the band intended to play next that this was another crowd favorite. Expectations were running high. But the band gave an interpretation that exceeded the studio version in astonishing fashion. This must be partly due to the relative new inclusions of Phil Collins and Steve Hackett into the band. Phil Collin's drums gave the song a much crisper definition, while Hackett's guitar work reached new heights. A dramatic conclusion to a fine album.
   
   Pawed by Mott The Dog
   Remastered by Ella Crew

5 comments about Strangers in the Night.

1. Great transaction.
   
   This is the best UFO album ever made Period. Live in Chicago with lots of long metal leads by Schenker, brother of Rudolf of the Scorpians. This has been remastered for CD; they have changed the begining song and other small details from the original release in the early 1980's. That one was actually better but it was on cassette tape. You won't be disapointed in this once you listen to "Rock Bottom" and "Love to Love".



2. UFO has to be one of the most underrated rock bands ever, and has certainly been undeservedly neglected on FM stations. This is as good a live album as you will ever hear. The band is tight, and Schenker delivers some blistering guitar work. All their great tunes are on this album. I disagree with JAYMZ "Old Rocker". I like AC/DC and the Scorpions well enough but they pretty much play the same type of stuff over and over. I would say that UFO's music from this period is far more varied and creative. I would say some of it even borders on prog (Let it Roll, Love to Love). If you are a fan 70's era rock you will love this.



3. This is the greatest album ever recorded. And no, I'm not just talking in the prespective of only live albums or even hardrock albums for that matter, this is seriously the greatest work of music ever made by mankind. I don't know how to put it but "Strangers in the Night" has a certain magic, power and honesty to it that makes me wonder why rock music, or even UFO themselves, even countiued past 1978 due to the fact that NOTHING will ever be this good again. Makes me wonder how hardrock/metal bands of today can happily put out their sonic v a g i n a l execrement, knowing deep in their hearts that they will never be able to slay this F v C k I n G beast that is "Strangers in the Night". Of course it is a live album as well, I am particulary not a strong lover of live albums, however here an exception will be made. The live atmosphere allows UFO to be at their very best and unhinged to the max. The production on the studio records were less then stellar, on "Strangers.." the sound, production and preformances are not just flawless, they are superhuman, I might even say godly. Schenker's abilties with his guitar just send chills down my body. Mogg has to be the most inspiring singer too, he doesn't need a fancy costume or some stupid, trendy vocal technique, he just sings his heart out. Mogg is rock 'n' roll personified. Forget the trendy $ h ! t you've seen on T.V. about "RocK STaRz". Forget f v c k i n g wastoids like Elvis, Robert Plant or even Steve Tyler. This man, Philip Mogg, right here is the real deal, kiddies. He is by far my favorite part of the UFO machine.
   
   If you do not have this then your life has been meaningless up untill this point in time. Get this cd now, or forever be a mallcore baby,



4. Strangers in the Night is live and a favorite of mine by UFO. Of course any UFO fan would already have this cd in their collection, but if you don't, you need to get it right here at Amazon, for the service is great and I recieved mine in perfect condition with a rapid delivery. Get it now, what are you waiting for?



5. Hands down pound for pound the Best Live Cd ever recorded.Every true Rock fan should own this they just should! Just seen these guys in Seattle and I have to say UFO will never be forgotten every era has been a Rock and Rock Joy with this band. Vinnie Moore does an awesome job displaying some out of this world chops.Schenker will always be the most unique and recognizable this band has ever had but noone should ever forget Chapman in my opinion Chapmans contributions to this band were huge on those 4 early 80's albums every song was killer on all those cd's. Ok now again on Vinnie you are a shredding god in your own right and alot of fun to watch a killer addition to the current UFO lineup. CATCH THESE GUYS LIVE PEOPLE YOU WONT BE DISSAPOINTED!!

5 comments about Lotus.

1. I bought the 3xlp set used (which is why I love Amazon) around the late 80's. Lifelong Santana fan and jazz fan. The perfect mix. Really, a special album. The lp is better for one reason only, its size. The cd is better cuz there's no cracks and pops that vinyl lps inevitably get. The music is definitely not the lst 3 Santana albums but it's also none of that middle of the road fallow period music they did say 87 to 97. This stuff also transscends the Santana/McLaughlin material which can get too Indian flavored for most of us. Instead, this album comes hot on the heals of the first 3 lps (Santana, Abraxas, Santana III) and really is the only place you find a perfect blend of some of that sound mixed seamlessly with a new jazzier sound that he/they never again really captured. As close as Santana got was Moonflower and Canavansari, both noble albums but I think the difference here is this is live and on those other two albums being in the studio flattened the sound a bit, though there's still music on both that I love it's not as consistent as this album and there's something about Santana's rapport with the audience that adds a sweetness. Sure, yer gonna be disappointed if yer expecting more of the lst 3 albums. If you veer into jazz and love Santana at their best, you'll undoubtedly love this album. It was, indeed, a holy grail for Santana lovers back in the 70's and 80's. There's a reason. [...])



2. The Japanese mini LP versions of CDs has been an example of technology, craftmanship and an incredible eye to detail. Granted sometimes the printing on these releases requires a magnifying glass to read, but it is clear and legible. LP covers were an art form and many covers demanded the size of these covers to convey the art properly. Many of us who have the originals are probably not going to buy the mini LP. However, many of these discs now come with upgraded remastering and bonus tracks to entice us to buy them, anyway.
   
   This release is the epitome of the mini LP product. With the package completely unfolded, this release is an incredible sight to see. This is one that you would buy, even if you have the original LP release. It is that good.
   
   The attention to detail is also present in the CDs themselves. The sound is better than the domestic release and has been put back into the original 3 LP format. Now, this is good and bad. With three CDs, you are getting an exact replica. From an enjoyment point of view the domestic 2 CD release makes sense. Also, in the 3 CD format, Discs 2 & 3 have a fade in of the last few seconds that were on the prior CD, just like it was on the LPs. What may have been convention years ago is now an annoyance. The 2 CD version does away with this overlap.
   
   So, if you have the domestic release, don't get rid of it. Use it for your listening enjoyment and have this release for the pure visual enjoyment.
   
   5 out of 5 stars for the packaging.
   
   4 out of 5 stars for superior sound, but annoying fading of the music between discs.



3. Many folks who love the classic rock Santana just won't find anything here to appreciate. Non-the-less, Lotus is snapshot of Carlos during the middle of a phase that meant a lot to him.
   
   The playing is all top notch. The overall sound is good but not great. It's a little to high pitched sounding without a nice warm bass to push this recording over the top.
   
   I still give it 5 stars because of the excellent playing thoughout.



4. When "Lotus" was originally released as a vinyl Japanese-only import (1974), it was one of the most prized items among collectors. The packaging...nowhere near as important as the music itself...was a mind-blowing example of innovation and creativity with several fold-out posters and the sleeve that housed the three discs inside. That's one of the things that delayed the release of "Lotus" on CD for so many years...shrinking all of that wonder down into a 4.75" x 4.75" plastic box. They DID it...maybe not as spectacularly as the original 12 x 12 release...but it was magnificent packaging for what is basically Carlos Santana's "A Love Supreme." Seriously...if you like the pop stuff, more power to you. There's plenty of good stuff there. But this was the top of Santana's spiritual / fusion era. In 1973 he added "Devadip" to his name, which meant "the light of the lamp of the Supreme." That light burns brightly across "Lotus," especially on CD 2 (where most of the extended numbers reside, including the 15 minute "Incident at Neshabur"). As Santana fans know, there are "several different Santanas." This was the MILES Santana, the COLTRANE Santana. This is scary and amazing music played with so much mind-numbing passion that you have to wonder why there are people who don't "get" Santana. Get Lotus, and strap yourself in for one heck of a ride.



5. Neither those who know Santana from the original band's early rock LPs, nor those most familiar with Carlos' and Company's recent all-star pop outings, will be in any way prepared for the astonishing two hours of music which is LOTUS. Recorded at a pair of Japanese concerts in 1973, this set is certainly the most singular item in one of rock music's most singular careers.
   Having fallen under the spell of early-seventies fusion as epitomized by Miles Davis, Chick Corea and other groundbreaking jazzmen, guitarist Carlos Santana made this third version of his eponymous ensemble by far the best, concentrating on lengthy instrumental explorations which were kept nailed in place by a phenomenal three-to-four-man percussion section. While inevitable hits (and rare vocals) like "Black Magic Woman" and "Oye Como Va" are here, and wonderfully handled, they sound almost trivial next to the driving and exotic sounds which surround them. "A-1 Funk," "Gypsy Queen," "Samba de Sausalito" and "Incident at Neshabur" rank among my personal favorites; but it seems ludicrous to pinpoint specific tracks as the show is essentially one long and very remarkable suite, uninterrupted and unflagging. Guitar quotes from Miles, Stravinsky, Jimi Hendrix and the Beatles add moments of relative levity - and a reminder of just how far afield this band drew its inspiration from - before the ultratight octet tears into its next workout, leaving the listener to marvel at how they possibly could've kept it up. LOTUS is a stunning album, a marvelous experience and one of the peak moments from the heyday of jazz/rock fusion. Indispensable!

5 comments about Foghat Live.

1. Actually, the album was recorded at the Dome Arena on May 10th 1977. Procol Harem opened up the show. It took longer than normal for the band to come on stage. I remember the announcer apologized for the delay, but then told the audience that they were setting up to record a live album. The place went crazy.



2. Foghat's live record, simply called 'Foghat Live' is simply incredible. There are only six songs here, but all six of the songs are far superior to the studio versions. 'Fool For The City' is just a jam session between vocalist/guitarist Dave Peverett and guitarist Rod Price.
   
   The famous 'Slow Ride' is even better than the studio version. Peverett's vocals are at their finest, and it is the best part of the entire record. Also, Price and bassist Nick Jameson jam as well.
   
   As a huge Foghat fan, I can always recommend this live record. It is one of the best live records ever recorded.
   
   Highly recommended for any Foghat or classic rock fan. ENJOY!!!



3. I read reviews on this disc and took a chance. What are you guys hearing that I'm not hearing. They are fair. But, I find nothing very interesting in their interpretations. Give me Bob Seger.



4. I attended a blues festival at Fort Mason, SF California sometime around 04-05. Headliner was Buddy Guy with special guest Carlos Santana, supporting acts was British Blues allstars aka KIm Simmonds featuring Rod Price, and Norton Buffalo. Rod Price was hands down the monster among legends that beutiful day. This brought me back to "Foghat Live" A blistering live set wheras Rod Price's astonishing lead and slide guitar work has to be some of the finest chops ever recorded. I was heartbroken when i learned that Rod Price passed away about a year later and didnt know until today that Lonesome Dave had succumed to cancer. Foghat seemed to have a knack for commercial succses yet never selling out. This album when released back in the day was commercial in design yet when cued up turned into absolute rock n roll warfare...astonshing to this day...Rod and Dave...r.i.p.



5. Only six songs, but six songs that are incredible. The first time I heard Foghat Live I was simply blown away. Almost 30 years later, it is still a great album. It is too bad that their studio albums never came close to what they did live. Buy this CD and play it LOUD!!!

5 comments about No Nukes.

1. Pretty boring stuff, except for the Springsteen track, which saves the day. Most of the artist featured on this album have concert albums that are far superior to the material found on this album.
   
   If you believe in the cause, are looking at this album as a historical document, or dig Springsteen's version of the Ryder medley, buy this album. If not, save your money.



2. Thank you, I got my item on time & I love it, it brought back many memories!!!!



3. Given the state of the Earth today, the sentiments of many of these songs are still current. This is an amazing collection of artists and songs - no matter how old you are!



4. I really liked this when it came ut on vinyl, but in retrospect, it was the cause, not the music. B. Raitt is grand, G Nash with an excellant Cathedral, J C Young, and the highlight to me We Almost Lost Detroit by the great Gil Scott-Heron. But the second disc is second rate. Edit the filler and it rates higher.



5. As a child of the 70's who grew up in a very "no nukes" home this album was on the turn table every night. What a great find for me all these years later as I start my own family. "Power" is one of the nicest, smoothest, most heartwarming songs every performed.
   
   The geniune love, care and respect these artists had for each other and mostly the earth and it's future generations pours through on every note.

5 comments about 11-17-70.

1. This album gives today's listener an idea of what the deal was about Elton John. Unusual melodies and harmonic chords which grabbed you; quirky subjects and off-beat, often intelligent lyrics (thanks to Bernie Taupin), and some wonderfully manic and physical piano pounding. By 1974-75 the original hard rockin' EJ was gone and The Eternally Mr. Fabulous was what we got in his place.



2. Gus Dudgeon should spend the rest of his life on Earth trying to make up for the nearly complete ruination of one of the best live albums of all time. I would most certainly box his ears if I every met him, because he is obviously NOT using them. It is my fond hope that this recording will someday be restored to as close to its original form as possible.



3. This album is one of my favorites. It reminds me in a way of a early MTV unplugged show. 60 years on is my favorite cut. Elton's melodic piano playing along with Dee's heavy base performance makes chills run down my spine. Of coarse the 18 minute burn down the mission melody is tops! It just goes to show you that Elton knows how to Rock and just have a great time jamming with Dee and Nigel. A must have for any Elton fan for sure.



4. Happy 37th birthday to one of my favorite albums of all time. Hard to believe it's been so long. This is Elton at his best. Before "Madman." Before "Tumbleweed." Before "Yellow Brick Road." And before the schlock he put out several years later. I love this record.



5. This remastered version of 17-11-70 is well worth getting. It captures Elton at the very beginning of his breakthrough period. 'Your Song' would be his first UK top 10 hit within 3 months of this recording.
   
   The band line-up for the album was very unusual then, and still is now. How many other Pop/Rock artists can you think of who have ever recorded with just Piano, Bass Guitar and drums? This is the classic line-up for a Jazz trio NOT a rock stars band! However, what this does for the album is give it an intimacy missing from some live albums recorded once the artist becomes a superstar. Listen to the little Elton says between songs and you can hear a very shy man who can't quite believe that its really happening.
   
   There are a number of very good tracks on this album. The unfathomable 'Take to the Pilot' is probably the best track on the album. There is no point analysing the lyrics - they don't mean anything, but like a number of tracks on the album ('Sixty Years On' being another example) the band put everything into their performance, and this track really rocks. There is a rare cover by Elton on this album, and its a highly original arrangement of 'Honky Tonk Woman'. Starting with an acapella introduction and finishing with a double speed last chorus its a storming version.
   
   Like a previous reviewer my one critcism of the remastered edition is the overall sound. I think that unneccessary phasing and other efects have been added to the sound. This is a small gripe, but if you have been listening to this album since the 70's like I have, you might find it rather irratating as well.

5 comments about Weld (2 disc set).

1. A little over 10 years after his groundbreaking live album "Live Rust" Young put out this 2 CD live set called "Weld" recorded on the "Ragged Glory" tour. The previous album "Freedom" was a bit of a comeback for Neil. After spending a good part of the 80's experimenting with electronic music, country, rockabilly, blues and just about anything else you could name, his album sales had taken a rather big plunge and radio was all but ignoring him. "Freedom" would feature a song that would bring Young back onto rock radio in a big way with the aptly titled "Rockin In The Free World". Young was back to playing big venues in front of loud raucous fans and would soon be given the title of "godfather of grunge" to go along with all of his other incarnations. "Weld" is a great live album and although not as lauded, I think is better than "Live Rust". This is Neil Young at his most angry and caustic. The majority of this album rocks as hard as any grunge or metal band. In fact this is some of the heaviest stuff I own on disc. The first four tracks bludgeon the listener over the head with lyrics and music that describe an America at the beginning of the first Gulf war. "Hey Hey My My", "Crime In The City", a feedback laden electric version of Bob Dylan's "Blowin In The Wind", and "Welfare Mothers" get the album off to an incredible start. The rest of the album contains several of Young's rocking masterpieces including "Cinnamon Girl", "Mansion On The Hill", "Cortez The Killer", "Powderfinger" and truly amazing versions of "Rockin In The Free World" and "Like A Hurricane". Encore's of "Farmer John" and "Tonight's The Night" continue the assault until finally at the very end Young closes with the lighthearted "Roll Another Number". This must have been an incredible show to see live and this is a great great live album. Neil's backing band Crazy Horse are never going to win any musician of the year honors, but there is something about when these four guys get together that makes just incredible music. If you are only a fan of Young's more acoustic oriented stuff this album may not be for you, but if you like Young at his absolute heaviest this album is a must own.



2. Ah, what glorious noise! This is one of my favorite live albums, in which Neil Young and Crazy Horse take his songs and "play them at 22". I love feedback and noise, and this album is drenced in it. The songs are all brilliantly performed, and many are better than their studio versions. The version of F***in' Up has a much more intense guitar solo, with some impressive feedback that probably shattered a few eardrums for those in the front row. Blowin' in the Wind is a great cover, and Hey, Hey, My, My is better here than on the studio. Like a Hurricane gets the epic treatment here, and it's fantastic. I saw Neil Young once (after this tour though), and he's phenomenal live. Neil is still kicking it, making bands half his age try and keep up with him. Neil (along with Dylan) got a nice renaissance in the 1990's, and they're still plugging on admirably.



3. When all is said and done, all that matters when you crank it up and just sit back and listen is; Does it get you to where you want to be?
   The answer is: Absolutely!



4. "This is the story of Johnny Rotten" - no s#it; "Rockin' In The Free World" - nihilistic, sarcastic, unforgiving - could have oozed outta PiL's Album (remember "Home"). On Weld, classic NY&CH epics get nailed SHUT. And it's all done with wrists - no whammy bars on these abused Gibsons. All those gnarly Cheap Thrills' leads blast outta the crypt.
   
   Urban dystopia inflicted. "Welfare Mothers" and "Crime In The City" (the latter among Young's most barbed, and lucid, storytelling) drag the listener into fierce noise and despairing nihilism. Then, the humanism erupts with "Blowin' In The Wind," a sure Hendrix phantasm. Hippie frisson abounds on "Cortez The Killer" and "Roll Another Number" - succumb.
   
   It's also "grunge." Jad Fair might have written "Like A Hurricane" - if he possessed the endorphins. To the point, it's all about Crazy Horse; they can play Madison Square Garden like a St. Louis bowling alley. Every fuzztoned note is blood, telepathy, exorcism. A cluster of unfortunate observations, made euphoric.



5. Very few live albums are as angry and snarling as this live set. Crazy Horse never sounded better, and Young--angry at the outbreak of the Gulf War in '91--unleashes a set of songs, some old, some new (what an amazing cover of "Blowin' in the Wind"!!) that more or less define the grunge attitude in the early 90s. Coupled with the 30 minute feedback montage "Arc", this double disk set is positively breathtaking. You can just feel the energy and volume. Wish I coulda been there...

5 comments about Space Ritual.

1. I've been working my way backwards through the Hawkwind collection after stumbling across the Greasy Truckers re-issue and being blown away by that muscular performance from 1972. I bought the 1999 disc after belatedly realising that it wasn't recorded ten years ago, but found it 'lite' with one or two exceptions [such as The Watcher]. I had avoided this [Space Ritual] because of the drippy cover but eventually it was time [or on sale]. It is very good. I'm particularly impressed by Lemmy's highly inventive bass playing and his interplay with Dave Brock's guitar playing. All in all, this has to be the standard against which all the other legit albums are measured. Where next....?



2. This Hawkwind album does something I never even knew the band attempted- jamming out, in a jazzy style, while some punk-ish guitars are playing in the background. What a great idea, not to mention an innovative one if we keep in mind the time this album was created.
   
   Now, here's another interesting thing- the band not only blended these jazzy ideas with punk and hard rock elements, but they somehow came up with this genius idea to give the entire thing a space rock edge, which just blows my mind that a band who already shocked the heck out of me with their amount of creativity managed to pull something MORE out of their magical hat.
   
   So yeah, Hawkwind rules, and Space Ritual is exactly the right album by them you need to own. Some people may get sick of the sound and style the band had going after a while, but to me, it just gets better and better.



3. 3 1/2
   
   Expectedly satisfying in equal parts space and sludge, this live disc remains a sturdy time-capsuled recording but musically does not exceed expectations. It's all slightly amateurish and rather monotone in a garage-stoner sort of way, though arguably the best example of that, especially back then. It's great stuff to invest in when starting out in alternative classic heavy rock; people who argue Hawkwind's influence may as important as Sabbath's have every right to do so....many of the tunes just get a little old and repetitious over time.



4. This is the live album from the tour which Hawkwind funded from the profits of their top 3 hit 'Silver Machine' in 1972. There are god knows how many versions of this album, and IMHO they all sound pretty much the same, so go for the one with the most tracks.
   
   This is often called Hawkwind's best album. Is it?
   
   Well, it's hard to say. How can you compare this ballcrushing, chaotic, anarchic noise, poetry, sax squonks and synth wobblings with something like the hilarious, precise and shiny 'Quark Strangeness and Charm' (1977)? IMHO they are as good as each other. This is just the best of Hawkwind at a particular point in time.
   
   That point was shortly after they'd added the monster rythm section of Lemmy (later of Motorhead) and Simon King (one of the most underrated and instinctual rock drummers ever), cranked up the volume to horrific levels, and committed the brilliant Robert Calvert to vinyl for the first time (he would later become the driving force of the band).
   
   Basically, 'Space Ritual' is a unique, thunderous, ambient, totally mad document. Stoned poems alternate with blasting heavy metal space rock (and when we're talking 'Space Rock', Hawkwind are the true gods of the genre. How can you beat lines like 'Space is deep, it is so endless'?)
   
   It's a shame the CD doesn't include a live show, with the nude dancer Stacia, and the amazingly wasted Dik Mik and Lemmy, who admitted that during the the recording of 'Silver Machine' he had to be propped up by roadies and told which direction the audience was in.
   
   Above all, regardless of the style of the music, this is a document of a band who were utterly devoted to their music and audience, without a care for commercial success. The true 'people's band'. If the offer still exists of buying this along with 'Hall of the Mountain Grill' (their next LP), buy it. You'll also get HotMG, which for my money is the best of their early studio LP's.
   
   To sum up: blistering, unique, amazing, but if you are after perfect musicianship and tightness, forget it. A classic. It just may not be your sort of classic.



5. 
   Someone else used the term "protopunk" and I think that might be a good way to describe this outwardly trippy, sci-fi themed band of many legends (and parodies). WARNING LONG JAMS, which is why they are often lumped with other progessive rock bands of the period. Swoopy cool dated analog synth with lots of reverb, great driving beats and songs wringing lots of stuff out of a very few chords, some effects and a wahwah pedal. It really makes sense when Lemmy's next band defined Speed Metal. Great musicianship throughout. Sometimes a band's live album becomes their defining moment - Little Feat's Waiting for Columbus, Be Bop Deluxe's "Live in the Air Age", and for myself, that is the case here. It is dated to be sure, but this still a great artifact of a band, and as good as anything they have ever done.

5 comments about Raisin' Hell.

1. This live record does what all good live records should do, it captures an artist at his peak. These live recordings came on the heels of his only big radio hit "Fooled Around And Fell In Love". Bishop took a full strength band on tour that included the "Tower Of Power" horn section, his full band that had been with him for years, great backup singers, and future Jefferson Starship singer Mickey Thomas. The result is a finely tuned live show, and a version of the previously mentioned hit that may be better than the original (Mickey Thomas's voice is phenomenal). Elvin Bishop has a great voice as well and gets highlighted on some of the old favorites. The sound quality is great, and so is this saved moment in time.



2. I've had the good fortune of seeing Elvin Bishop live several times and the man definitely knows how to rock the house. He mixes his own style of Blues with lots of humor. His guitar playing is genuine and influenced by the Chicago Blues style. He has played in great bands like Buffalo Springfield, but he is definitely his own man. I don't care who you are, if you want to feel good, check out Elvin Bishop. His lyrics are funny and he always jokes around with the audience and his band. This live recording demonstrates a lot of that. The only reason I gave this CD a four star is because, as good as it is, I think some of his other CD's like "Ace in the Hole" are my personal favorites. Still, you really can't go wrong. Check it out!



3. Thirty years ago this was one of my favorite albums. A week ago I ordered it from here and it's been in my dashboard ever since. It sounded great then and it sounds excellent now.
   
   There are many highly rated live albums. What sets this apart from all the rest? It's just unabaited joyous FUN from beginning to end.



4. Vintage Elvin. If you're going to own any of his music, this is the one.



5. Many years ago, i had this on LP on Capricorn Records, and over the years it disappeared. I have been looking for this recording in hopes that this GREAT performance would Finally come to cd format, and it has..!!! Without a doubt, one of the finest live shows ive heard...Not only is this Just about Elvin Bishop, but his stellar first class band as well..Mickey Thomas (from the Jefferson Airplane) vocals simply soar with Elvin's guitar work. The rest of the band, are ALL top notch studio players. Buy this, and you will NOT be disappointed...Elvin was just nominated again for the 2006 Blues Music Awards (formerly known as the W.C. Handy ) for best album...Funny that we still call cds albums, and lps...but that was the category in which he was listed. Get Elvin Bishop's "Raisin Hell..Live" You'll be glad you did.

5 comments about Last Flight.

1. This 2-CD set really rocks. No going out with a whimper. The Airplane finished their seven-year run in a blaze of glory. The great majority of tracks are from their last two studio albums, "Bark" (1971) and "Long John Silver" (1972).
   
   I see that a number of reviewers here have knocked the concert for not having more of their songs from earlier albums. Well, at the time the band didn't know this would be the end (Jorma quit just days afterward to start recording "Quah"), and it was the grand conclusion of their tour to promote "Long John Silver," so what do you expect?
   
   I am truly impressed at the material done here from that album. Songs that were lackluster in the studio recording - with a bad mix to boot - are performed with a riveting intensity. The title tract of "Long John Silver" has a makeover that is nothing short of a remarkable. Grace belts out its lyrics to a musical wall of sound driven by Jack Casady's bass guitar.
   
   "Wooden Ships" from "Volunteers" is also nice, and Papa John Creach lends an added dimension not heard in any other Airplane recordings of that tune.
   
   The concluding medley is also a real kicker.
   
   I concur with a prior reviewer that if you are not familiar with the Airplane, this should not be your starting point. For that I would recommend "Surrelaistic Pillow" or "The Worst of Jefferson Airplane." This set is the icing on the cake for us longtime fans.



2. I relly enjoyed this 2 disc set. I especially liked the versions of Lawman, Have you seen the Saucers, Wooden Ships and of course the Diana/Volunteers medley. Even though Marty isn't on it, Davis Freiberg's vocals are excellent as are Papa's contributions and Jack's bass work is incomparable. I would say it is a must have for any old Airplane fan.



3. The live sound here is definitely superior to the Quicksilver Messenger Service's "Live at Kabuki Theater" but not quite up to "Thirty Seconds Over Winterland " which contains some of this same material and similar band members (including Papa John Creach). You have to smile at the enthusiasm of the opening band introduction, which sets the right mood for enjoyment of this lengthy set. This was one of the strangest band line-ups of the day, rife with vocalists and guitarists, no keyboards, and the elder Mr. Creach on screaming violin, a nice touch indeed. Songs like "Milk Train" aren't acquitted as well here as on "30 Secs" but the longer total performance makes up for it, and generally there aren't many long tired jams, just faithful performances of the songs. Grace laments that she has no idea where lyrics to "Twilight Double Leader" come from....I wonder, didn't this song mean to invoke the baseball term "Twilight Double HEADER?"



4. This show is definately for the true die-hard fan of Jefferson Airplane. When the band is cooking, this show is very hot. Unfortunately Grace Slick is not in any other form here other than bad. I have several bootleg shows from Jefferson Starship from this era and Grace is often much better than she is here. The last night of the tour, a bit too much partying before the show? It definately shows in her performance.While the drumming from Johnny Barbata is rather heavy handed, it is definately sevicable for the band. Paul, Jack, Jorma and Papa John hold this show together and really make it worthwhile to listen to. I guess it's worthwhile to have for the "Historic Show" that it is, but there's a lot better live material out there of this band.



5. seems to me that most criticisms of the airplane are all sorta the same....what do people expect????.........seems that most that booked return flights on the jefferson airline did so for the experience........some rides were bumpy, delayed or even canceled.....but when they took off they shattered barriers.......today the experience is past but the atmosphere is conjured up in live albums like this one........i'm not sure what a five star rating is supposed to mean but this album will take you for an old fashioned ride......its a 5 star blast-off through an old foggy atmosphere and back again.....Fly Jefferson Airplane and Grace will get you there on time