Record Reviews
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  | BUFFALO SPRINGFIELD ~ WHAT`S THAT SOUND? – COMPLETE ALBUMS COLLECTION
RHINO 603497860678 (Barcode: 603497860678) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1966 - 1968 Released: 2018
This is a Box Set presenting the newly (2017) remastered versions of the three original albums recorded by the seminal American Classic Rock group Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist. The remastering was done under Neil YoungFind albums by this artist´s supervision and he claims that these remasters offer a superior sound quality better that any previous version of these albums. The box set includes the mono and stereo versions of the first two albums and the stereo version of the last album, on five separate CDs. The eponymous debut album included here is the second version of that album, which includes the single "For What It´s Worth", but drops the song "Baby Don´t Scold Me" from the stereo version. In complete contrast to the "Buffalo Springfield (Box Set)Find albums with this title" compilation released originally in 2001, this Box Set adds no bonus tracks, concentrating on the original versions of the albums.
In retrospect the three albums are a spectacular document of the process of turning American Folk music into Classic Rock, under the influence of the British Invasion. Preceded of course by The ByrdsFind albums by this artist, Buffalo Springfield travelled on the same path from Electric Folk to Folk Rock via a brief Psychedelia period, but completed it in a much shorter period of time that lasted less than a couple of years.
With the immense songwriting and guitar playing talents of Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist, Neil Young and Richie FurayFind albums by this artist, the band had the potential of becoming a huge and lasting success, but alas as it often happens with to much talent and even more ego within one outfit, the band was over before it reached its peak, which perhaps is all for the better in retrospect. Their recorded legacy offers some of the most amazing songs ever written, which sound as good today as they did at the time of their recording.
For the avid Buffalo Springfield fans and followers this Box Set might be redundant to some degree, but it is an excellent opportunity for new listeners to discover this important chapter in American Classic Rock.
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 26/01/2019 | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BYRDS ~ BYRDS
ESOTERIC 2658 (Barcode: 5013929475847) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the 1973 reunion album by the iconic American group The ByrdsFind albums by this artist, which was their twelfth and last album. It was recorded by the original members of the group: lead guitarists / vocalist Roger McGuinnFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist Gene ClarkFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, bassist Chris HillmanFind albums by this artist and drummer Michael ClarkeFind albums by this artist. The album presents elevens songs, eight of which were written by the members of the band, two by Neil YoungFind albums by this artist and one by Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist. This newly remastered reissue includes no bonus tracks, but offers an improved sound quality in comparison to the original release.
The album was originally released on the (then) newly founded Asylum Records, following the eleven earlier albums that the group recorded for Columbia, all of which were beautifully reissued in the "The Complete Columbia Albums CollectionFind albums with this title" Box Set with a plethora of bonus material.
Although the album did not result in any chart material, the songs are up to par with the band´s superb older material, and in retrospect it is an integral part of their recorded legacy. By the time this album was recorded, the transformation of the American music from the Folk to the Rock idiom was already complete and the material was already anachronistic to some extent. But since great music proves to be timeless, this album withstands the test of time without a hitch.
Since this album remains mostly forgotten by the Classic Rock fans, it is good to see it back in circulation. The Byrds were instrumental in the process of creating Rock music as we know it, and we should always keep their music alive. For the younger generation of Rock music lovers, who were not around when this music was originally released, this is definitely worth investigating!
| | Updated: 02/08/2019Posted: 01/08/2019 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ CANADIANA
ANTOINETTE 039911033821 (Barcode: 039911033821) ~ CANADA ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is a studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded with a great team of musicians: keyboardist Lou PomantiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Eric St-LaurentFind albums by this artist, bassist George KollerFind albums by this artist, drummer Ben WittmanFind albums by this artist and others, and featuring brass section and string section on selected tracks. The album presents thirteen songs, all by Canadian songwriters, as diverse as Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist, Gordon LightfootFind albums by this artist and others and one original song by Clayton-Thomas.
The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the eleventh of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career.
The album is a tribute to the Canadian contribution to Pop / Rock songwriting, which is obviously very significant artistically. The songs are beautifully arranged and Clayton-Thomas performances are brilliant as always. His feeling and his idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded. The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish.
After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to hear him carrying on with what he loves to do taking us along on a wonderful ride.
| | Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 12/08/2020 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS & NASH ~ CROSBY, STILLS & NASH (EXPANDED EDITION)
RHINO 081227329020 (Barcode: 081227329020) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2006
This is a reissue of the legendary eponymous debut album by Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist. David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist and Graham NashFind albums by this artist play all the instruments and sing the divine vocal harmonies all by themselves, except for the drum parts played by Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist. This expanded and remastered edition adds four previously unreleased songs to the ten original masterpieces included on the original album.
What can I say about this album that has not been said already? Probably not much other than my very personal experiences, which are some of the most significant parts of the puzzle called "The Soundtrack Of My Life". Upon its release in May of 1969, the album became an immediate favorite of mine, lasting to this very day (almost fifty years now) and I will probably take it with me to my grave. Although all the ingredients that make this album what it is were scattered around for a while, before it was recorded, this particular amalgam of songwriting, vocal harmony, lyrical depth and pure genius was simply unprecedented. Of course The ByrdsFind albums by this artist, The Buffalo SpringfieldFind albums by this artist and The HolliesFind albums by this artist made superb music earlier on, but the magical bond that Crosby, Stills & Nash created was definitely an outcome way more significant than a simple sum of its ingredients.
Considering the fact that part of the music on this album consists of vocals accompanied just by acoustic guitars points out that simplicity is definitely a key ingredient. The other songs, which use electric instruments, all played by Stills, are also quite straightforward. The only true complexity is reflected in the vocal harmonies, which are a first of its kind fusion of the American Country & Western vocal tradition and the splendid British Folk vocal tradition, masterly combined to create a new level of vocal virtuosity never previously attempted.
Even the album´s cover is perfect; an astounding photograph by the great Henry DiltzFind albums by this artist, which was a mistake (figure it out) which could not be corrected as the house in the photograph was torn down the day after these pictures were taken. Talking about capturing moments in history…
A few weeks after this album was released, Crosby, Stills & Nash would appear on the stage at Woodstock, joined by Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, and another piece of musical history would be made.
So here it is, an icon of my youth (I wasn´t even eighteen when this album was released), which became an icon of my life, an eternal piece of musical perfection, which grabs me by my throat every time I listen to it, relentlessly after all those years.
| | Updated: 05/03/2017Posted: 05/03/2017 | CD 1 HDCD Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ AMERICAN DREAM
ATLANTIC 075678188824 (Barcode: 075678188824) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1988 Released: 1988
This is the second studio album by the iconic Classic Rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist. The four singers / songwriters are supported by bassist Bob GlaubFind albums by this artist, drummer Joe VitaleFind albums by this artist, percussionist Joe LalaFind albums by this artist and several other guests. The album presents fourteen original songs, recorded over a period of several months in 1988 an written or co-written by the group members and the musicians playing on the album, with Neil YoungFind albums by this artist being involved in writing half of the songs on the album.
Personal conflicts, ego wars and genuine problems prevented Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young from fulfilling their tremendous potential and the fact that they managed to record only three studio albums is a travesty. "American DreamFind albums with this title" is a truly prophetic title, since the two decades that separate the recording of this album from their groundbreaking debut "Déjà VuFind albums with this title" not only changed the worldwide music scene but also marked the shattering of the America Dream in every aspect: political, social, moral and intellectual. The days of Freedom and Hope were gone and the bleak reality took over.
If any other group wrote and recorded these fourteen songs they would have been considered as excellent, but sadly in comparison to their glorious past these songs, which also suffered from the 1980s production malady, sound somewhat pale and underachieved, which gave both the critics and even the faithful fans plenty of opportunity to bitch bitterly.
To be fair, in retrospect the album is not that bad at all, surely not in comparison to what passes as music these days. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young did not loose their ability to compose superb melodies, write meaningful lyrics and sing sublime vocal harmonies, which can all be found on this album. If not for the somewhat muddy sound and dreadful synthesizers the album sounds quite nice and surprisingly stands the test of time relatively well, especially so the two David CrosbyFind albums by this artist songs, which are up to par with his usual classics.
Overall this is perhaps not the greatest recording by these iconic musicians, but definitely an album worth to be remembered and re-visited periodically, making sure it is not forgotten.
| | Updated: 19/01/2019Posted: 19/01/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ BROADCAST COLLECTION `70-`74
SOUND STAGE 39 (Barcode: 5294162603925) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1970 - 1974 Released: 2018
This Box Set collects live radio broadcasts by the iconic Classic Rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, which originate from the early period of their activity following the release of their debut album "Déjà VuFind albums with this title" and until their epic reunion tour of 1974. Of the six CDs included here the first two present the Fillmore East concert and another two the Lakehurst concert, both from 1970. The fifth CD presents the Crosby & NashFind albums by this artist concert at Winterland from 1972, which includes a guest appearance by Neil YoungFind albums by this artist. The last CD presents the Roosevelt Traceway concert from the 1974 tour, which was part of the legendary King Biscuit Flower Hour series of radio broadcasts.
There is nothing new here as far as dedicated fans of the band are concerned of course, especially in view of the plethora of authorized and unauthorized live albums by the band released over time, but on the other hand considering the importance and the extraordinary talents of the group members, every single note they ever recorded is a Holy Grail of Classic Rock and an incredible document of the era.
The first two concerts, both of which are split on two CDs, present the usual acoustic / electric sets the group played, each of which emphasized different aspects of their music.
The sound quality of these albums leaves much to be desired, which is a bit disappointing, since radio broadcasts usually offered a reasonable sound quality. However, for hardcore fans the sound quality is of little importance as long as the spirit of the music prevails.
Side Note
Obiterdictum Ltd, a company based in Cyprus (oh well you know the story… copyright laws and legal issues) releases mostly live recorded radio broadcasts from the 1960s on and offers an amazing source of music which was never officially released by some of the best Classic Rock and Jazz artists. The catalogue offers five hundred releases, which is an absolute treasure chest of music history, often appearing for the first time.
Although the sound quality and sometimes also music quality range from absolutely brilliant to pretty poor, most of the material is surely listenable, especially after being remastered recently, and more importantly offers music which is not available elsewhere.
The company releases the albums under several sub-labels: Air CutsFind albums on this label, EchoesFind albums on this label, Hi HatFind albums on this label, HotspurFind albums on this label, InterferenceFind albums on this label, KeyholeFind albums on this label, KlondikeFind albums on this label, Live On VinylFind albums on this label, London CallingFind albums on this label, OrbitFind albums on this label, Rox VoxFind albums on this label and Sound StageFind albums on this label. There is no ironclad logic as to what material appears on which label, except perhaps some internal considerations by the Obiterdictum owners.
Approach with caution, but keep in mind that some of these releases are absolutely brilliant!
| | Updated: 11/08/2019Posted: 11/08/2019 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ DÉJÀ VU
ATLANTIC 075678264924 (Barcode: 075678264924) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 1994
This is the debut album by the iconic Classic Rock band Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, considered as one of the most important and pivotal Rock albums of all time. The group combined four young (at the time) Rock stars: the hippie dreamer David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, the folksy / bluesy Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist, the elegant, intellectual and romantic Brit Graham NashFind albums by this artist and the tough rocker Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, all four blessed with extraordinary voices and sublime songwriting talents. This unique combination of musical personalities already tested and perfected within the Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist framework was simply matchless by any contemporary Rock group at the time. This highly anticipated album, following the instant fame and glory of the group due to their stellar Woodstock Festival appearance proved to be everything that might have been expected and more. Assisted by bassist Greg ReevesFind albums by this artist and drummer Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist (and a brief contributions by Jerry GarciaFind albums by this artist and John SebastianFind albums by this artist) they recorded nine original songs (two by each of the group members and one co-written by Stills and Young) and the cherry on top in the form of the Woodstock Generation anthem, the Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist song "Woodstock" inspired by the festival´s events.
The music is a prefect blend of vocal harmonies and instrumental work, which renders sublimely the beauty and the depth of the compositions. The clever and meaningful lyrics add another layer to the musical framework, creating a set of songs, which in time became anthems not only in the long and successful career of the group and its individual members, but more importantly reached a legendary status of Anthems of a Generation, which firmly stands to this very day.
It is very difficult to understand what makes this album to stand out from thousands of other recordings of the period. Beyond the above mentioned objective reasons, which contribute to its success, there are also additional factors, historical, social, psychological and even philosophical. This album defines a specific moment in American history, in which the "American Values" were seriously questioned, perhaps for the first time. The anguish and the confusion of the young generation (in America, but also in the entire world for that matter) were perfectly echoed in the songs by the Classic Rock Artists, who were the bards and often the prophets of their generation, continuing the process initiated in the 1950s by the Beat Generation and continued by the Protest Poets of the 1960 (Woody GuthrieFind albums by this artist, Bob DylanFind albums by this artist). Sadly that poignant moment of American history proved to be brief, and tragically insignificant in retrospect. The mass media and political / social processes proved to be most successful in turning the American public into a mindless mob.
Now, almost fifty years after it´s release, this is still a sublime piece of music, which deserves to be cherished, remembered and repeatedly re-visited by every sensitive, open-minded cultural person on this planet.
| | Updated: 21/01/2019Posted: 21/01/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ DÉJÀ VU LIVE
REPRISE 093624983910 (Barcode: 093624983910) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2008
This is a live album by the seminal Classic Rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, recorded during their 2006 tour (called the "Freedom Of Speech" tour). The tour was initially intended as a Neil YoungFind albums by this artist tour supporting his new (at the time) album "Living With WarFind albums with this title", but Young asked David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist and Graham NashFind albums by this artist to join him and as a result a reunion of the group occurred. The tour produced a film (called "Déjà Vu") and this album, which is basically a soundtrack of the film. The four members of the group are accompanied by guitarist Ben KeithFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Spooner OldhamFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Tom BrayFind albums by this artist, bassist Rick RosasFind albums by this artist and drummer Chad CromwellFind albums by this artist.
The album presents a mixture of songs from the "Living With War" album and classic early songs by the group, which overall results in a rather strange and inconsistent / incoherent mix, which obviously is more about protest and political activism than about the music. The sound quality of the recording is also problematic, with uneven balance between the vocals and the instrumental work. Young added some studio overdubs to the live material later on.
In retrospect, this album has relatively limited artistic value in the overall career of this splendid group. It has a historical value as a document of the tour and a reflection of the group´s political activism, which was always a part of their milieu, but is not something many listeners would probably choose to revisit often.
| | Updated: 20/01/2019Posted: 20/01/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ LIVE AT FILLMORE EAST, 1969
RHINO 603497839612 (Barcode: 603497839612) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by the iconic Rock band Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist, considered as one of the most important and pivotal Rock groups of all time. The group combined four young (at the time) Rock stars: the hippie dreamer David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, the folksy / bluesy Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist, the elegant, intellectual and romantic Brit Graham NashFind albums by this artist and the tough rocker Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, all four blessed with extraordinary voices and sublime songwriting talents. This unique combination of musical personalities already tested and perfected within the Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist framework was simply matchless by any contemporary Rock group at the time.
This album, recorded on September 20, 1969, before the debut album by the band was released, finds them in the light of the instant fame and glory, due to their stellar Woodstock Festival appearance a month earlier. The previously unreleased material presents seventeen tracks, which follows their show pattern of acoustic set (eleven tracks) and electric set (six tracks), where the quartet is assisted by bassist Greg ReevesFind albums by this artist and drummer Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist.
The obvious comparison between this recording and the Woodstock performance shows how much progress these musicians made in just one month, perfecting the vocal harmonies and getting the show together. Playing the Woodstock and these Fillmore versions opposite each other is a schoolbook exercise, for the very patient music enthusiasts, and a great fun.
Although this album does not offer anything previously unheard, it is as perfect as any fan of CSN&Y could ask for, with impeccable performances and absolutely stunning sound quality and clarity. As such, it expands the historical document of the era (late 1969), when music making was at the epicenter of the cultural platform and before everything turned sour.
Overall, this is an incredible find, which for people who had been lucky to experience this music in real time is absolutely priceless. If there is Godly Rock music, this is it, no questions asked. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 19/11/2024Posted: 19/11/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG ~ LOOKING FORWARD
REPRISE 093624743620 (Barcode: 093624743620) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1997 - 1999 Released: 1999
This is the third (and so far the last) studio album by the iconic Classic Rock group Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist. The album was initially planned as the next Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist album, but at a later stage Young joined the trio and contributed his playing and material to turn this into a bona fide quartet album. The four singers / songwriters are supported by keyboardist Michael FinniganFind albums by this artist, bassist Donald DunnFind albums by this artist, drummer Joe VitaleFind albums by this artist, percussionist Joe LalaFind albums by this artist and several other guests. The album presents twelve songs, recorded over a period of almost three years between 1997 and 1999, all bar one written or co-written by the group members, with David CrosbyFind albums by this artist contributing two songs, Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist three songs, Graham NashFind albums by this artist two songs and Neil YoungFind albums by this artist four songs. The last song was written by guitarist Denny SarokinFind albums by this artist, who also plays on the album.
Personal conflicts, ego wars and genuine problems prevented Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young from fulfilling their tremendous potential and the fact that they managed to record only three studio albums is a travesty. "Looking Forward" sadly did not become prophetic as far as the quartet was concerned, although they did play several tours as a quartet in the years that followed.
If any other group wrote and recorded these twelve songs they would have been considered as excellent, but sadly in comparison to their glorious past these songs, which also suffered from the uneven production, sound somewhat pale and underachieved, which gave both the critics and even the faithful fans plenty of opportunity to bitch bitterly, although it performed better in the charts than its predecessor "American DreamFind albums with this title".
To be fair, in retrospect the album is not that bad at all, surely not in comparison to what passes as music these days. Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young did not loose their ability to compose superb melodies, write meaningful lyrics and sing sublime vocal harmonies, which can all be found on this album. The album sounds quite nice and surprisingly stands the test of time relatively well, especially so the David Crosby and Graham Nash songs, which are up to par with their usual classics.
Overall this is perhaps not the greatest recording by these iconic musicians, but definitely an album worth to be remembered and re-visited periodically, making sure it is not forgotten.
| | Updated: 02/02/2019Posted: 02/02/2019 | CD 1 HDCD Recommend To A Friend |
  | JONI MITCHELL ~ ARCHIVES – VOLUME 3 (THE ASYLUM YEARS 1972-1975)
RHINO 603497834303 (Barcode: 603497834303) ~ CANADA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1975 Released: 2023
This is the third archival Box Set presenting recordings by the iconic Canadian singer / songwriter Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist. It includes five CDs worth of material spanning the years 1972 to 1975. The recordings include home demos, live performances, radio and TV broadcast and other sources. All of the songs (except two cases) are Mitchell originals and almost all (except one) were never previously released.
CD1 presents two tracks form a Graham NashFind albums by this artist / David CrosbyFind albums by this artist session, four demos for the “For The RosesFind albums with this title” album and eighteen tracks recorded during a concert at Carnegie Hall in February 1972.
CD2 presents four more tracks from the Carnegie Hall concert, six tracks from the early “For The Roses” sessions in April 1972, two tracks from a concert at Royal Festival Hall, six tracks from the later “For The Roses” sessions in July-August 1972 and finally two tracks from a benefit concert.
CD3 presents six demos for the “Court And SparkFind albums with this title” album, one track from a Graham Nash session, one track from a Neil YoungFind albums by this artist session, six tracks from the “Court And Spark” sessions in September-October 1973 and finally six tracks from a concert at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in March 1974.
CD4 presents sixteen more tracks from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion concert.
CD5 presents two tracks from a concert at New Victoria Theatre in April 1974, one track from a concert at Wembley Stadium in September 1974, seven demos for the “The Hissing Of Summer LawnsFind albums with this title” album and finally seven tracks from the “The Hissing Of Summer Lawns” sessions in 1975.
This wonderful time capsule enables listeners to take a time machine some fifty years back in time and imagine they are sitting just a few meters away from Mitchell, who is singing her heart out. At those peak moments of her career she was absolutely marvelous as a performer and a completely unique songwriter, who would change the face of music in the forthcoming decades.
Overall, this is a brilliant Box Set of enormous historical importance and an absolute must to all true Mitchell fans. The excellent sound quality of these recordings allows taking a fully enjoyable trip back in time, visiting the source of Mitchell’s illustrious career, with a hope that the next volumes of the archival series will bring many more hours of previously unheard material. This is beyond recommendation!
| | Updated: 19/12/2023Posted: 19/12/2023 | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM NASH ~ OVER THE YEARS...
RHINO 603497858026 (Barcode: 603497858026) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1968 - 2016 Released: 2018
This is a 2CD compilation album by iconic British Classic Rock vocalist / songwriter Graham NashFind albums by this artist, which is a collection of songs he wrote for his solo albums and collaborations with David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist and Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, collectively and individually.
CD1 present fifteen tracks previously released on albums, except for two tracks which appear here in previously unreleased mixes. CD2 presents fifteen tracks of previously unreleased demos, except one previously released on the “ReflectionsFind albums with this title” album and two on the “DemosFind albums with this title” album, both originally released in 2009.
The album reflects perfectly the sublime talents of Nash as singer and songwriter, spanning his entire career, albeit very briefly considering the vast recorded legacy Nash managed to create over the decades. The second CD with the demos is of course more interesting to Nash fans, who probably already own the songs on the first CD, and the album is worth getting just to hear that previously unreleased material.
Overall, this album offers some rare previously unreleased material by one of the most creative Classic Rock musicians, which in many respects is one of the founding Fathers of the genre. Nash added the British sophistication and finesse to his American partners, thus amalgamating the best of Rock. A must to Nash fans / collectors!
| | Updated: 11/05/2022Posted: 11/05/2022 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM NASH ~ SONGS FOR BEGINNERS
ATLANTIC 081227977078 (Barcode: 081227977078) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2011
This is the debut solo album by British singer / songwriter Graham NashFind albums by this artist, one of the 20th Century Classic Rock icons, who is still active today. After a glorious career in the UK as a member of the legendary group The HolliesFind albums by this artist, Nash moved to the USA to join David CrosbyFind albums by this artist and Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist (and later Neil YoungFind albums by this artist) to form one of the most influential Classic Rock bands in history: Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist (and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist). Nash was decisively the catalyst and bonding element of these bands, with his British Cultural background, lyricism and superb feel of vocal harmony, as well as his personal manners and attitude, which was often in complete contrast to his American partners.
This album was recorded in wake of the success of the CSN&Y debut album "Déjà VuFind albums with this title" released in 1970, which prompted all four members of the band to release solo albums, all of which were superb pieces of musical ingenuity. In retrospect, however, this album and David Crosby´s "If I Could Only Remember My NameFind albums with this title" stand out as icons of the era.
The album presents eleven original songs, all written (music and lyrics) by Nash, except for one which was co-written with the British guitarist Terry ReidFind albums by this artist, an old friend and partner. Nash is supported by a formidable team of musicians, which includes vocalist Rita CoolidgeFind albums by this artist, Jerry GarciaFind albums by this artist, David Crosby and Dave MasonFind albums by this artist on guitars, Neil Young on piano, Bobby KeysFind albums by this artist on saxophone, bassist Calvin SamuelsFind albums by this artist and Phil LeshFind albums by this artist, drummers John BarbataFind albums by this artist and Dallas TaylorFind albums by this artist and numerous others.
The songs exemplify not only his exceptional harmonic and melodic qualities but also his social awareness, which is strongly present in the fabric of the lyrics, many of which would become an integral part of the protest songs sung by the young generation in the early 1970s, when lyrics were meaningful and could move mountains.
In retrospect this album is one of the absolute top achievements of the Classic Rock era, and remains completely relevant today, not losing an iota of its splendor and power over time. Almost half a Century after this music was created, it is still fresh, moving and exceedingly beautiful.
How sad that nobody makes music like this any more…
| | Updated: 09/09/2018Posted: 09/09/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM NASH ~ WILD TALES
ATLANTIC 075678143229 (Barcode: 075678143229) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1985
This is the second solo album by British singer / songwriter Graham NashFind albums by this artist, one of the 20th Century Classic Rock icons, who is still active today. After a glorious career in the UK as a member of the legendary group The HolliesFind albums by this artist, Nash moved to the USA to join David CrosbyFind albums by this artist and Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist (and later Neil YoungFind albums by this artist) to form one of the most influential Classic Rock bands in history: Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist (and Crosby, Stills, Nash & YoungFind albums by this artist). Nash was decisively the catalyst and bonding element of these bands, with his British Cultural background, lyricism and superb feel of vocal harmony, as well as his personal manners and attitude, which was often in complete contrast to his American partners.
The album presents ten original songs, all written (music and lyrics) by Nash. Nash is supported by a formidable team of musicians, which includes vocalist Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, guitarists David LindleyFind albums by this artist, David Crosby and Dave MasonFind albums by this artist, Neil Young on piano, bassist Tim DrummondFind albums by this artist, drummer John BarbataFind albums by this artist and numerous others.
The songs are somewhat darker and more introvert that those on his debut album, but all are superbly crafted and executed. Each and every one of these songs is a microcosm of inventive songwriting and lyrical sensitivity that Nash is blessed with. His exceptional harmonic and melodic aesthetics and his social awareness are strongly present in the fabric of the lyrics, as always.
At the time of its release this album was received coldly by the music critics and to this very day is not considered as one of his best achievements, which of course is a complete poppycock, as this music withstands the test of time formidably and remains an archetypal example of Classic Rock.
How sad that nobody makes music like this any more…
| | Updated: 26/10/2018Posted: 10/09/2018 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | RIDES ~ CAN`T GET ENOUGH
PROVOGUE 7412 (Barcode: 819873010142) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013
This is the debut album by American Blues-Rock band The RidesFind albums by this artist, formed in 2013 by the legendary singer / songwriter / guitarist Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist with singer / songwriter Kenny Wayne ShepherdFind albums by this artist and veteran keyboardist Barry GoldbergFind albums by this artist. The band also includes bassist Kevin McCormickFind albums by this artist and drummer Chris LaytonFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten songs, four of which are originals co-written by the three founding members of the band, one is written by Neil YoungFind albums by this artist, one is written by Stills, one is written by Iggy PopFind albums by this artist and three are Blues standards.
Stills is able to put his ego away and embrace a much younger Blues-Rock star like Shepherd in order to create what he calls "the blues band of my dreams" in order to revisit his Blues roots. Surprisingly this unlikely coalition works out splendidly and the album is full of a true camaraderie and more importantly some superb Blues songs with scorching guitar solos all along the way.
The new songs are all first class and the covers are updated with sparkling and ass-kicking rejuvenated arrangements, altogether resulting in an album that might have been recorded fifty years earlier – and I mean this as a compliment.
For all the Classic Rock / Blues-Rock enthusiasts, who still listen to real music today, this is as good as this type of music ever gets. Nostalgia, "heard it all already", etc. – who cares! This music is alive and kicking and all you contemporary zombie-music lovers eat your hearts out! This music truly rocks!
| | Updated: 27/04/2019Posted: 27/04/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEPHEN STILLS ~ BROADCAST COLLECTION 1973-1979
SOUNDSTAGE 50 (Barcode: 5294162605028) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1973 - 1979 Released: 2018
This archival Box Set collects live radio broadcasts by the great American singer / songwriter / guitarist Stephen StillsFind albums by this artist, captured over a period of six years during various concerts in the USA (and in one case in Cuba). The music includes mostly original songs by Stills, from either his solo albums or the albums he recorded with David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, Graham NashFind albums by this artist and Neil YoungFind albums by this artist. Surprisingly most of the music was recorded solo, with Stills singing and playing guitar, piano and harmonica. In some cases, he is accompanied by additional musicians, sadly not specified on the Box Set artwork.
These six CDs show Stills as a superb, charismatic performer, able to hold a huge crowd of listeners mesmerized by his performances. He also proves to be one of the greatest American Rock guitar players, a position criminally overlooked by both listeners and critics alike.
Of course Stills is also a superb songwriter and many of his songs are absolute Classic Rock anthems, covering a diverse spectrum of sub genres, from beautiful Soul ballads to Country, Rhythm And Blues and Rock. For people, like yours truly, who experienced this music as part of the Soundtrack of their Lives, this is an irresistible trip down memory lane, which boldly recaps why going to concerts used to be a life-changing experience.
With well over six hours of brilliant music and great vibe, this Box Set is definitely something every Stills fan the world over should enjoy immensely.
Side Note
Obiterdictum Ltd, a company based in Cyprus (oh well you know the story… copyright laws and legal issues) releases mostly live recorded radio broadcasts from the 1960s on and offers an amazing source of music which was never officially released by some of the best Classic Rock and Jazz artists. The catalogue offers five hundred releases, which is an absolute treasure chest of music history, often appearing for the first time.
Although the sound quality and sometimes also music quality range from absolutely brilliant to pretty poor, most of the material is surely listenable, especially after being remastered recently, and more importantly offers music which is not available elsewhere.
The company releases the albums under several sub-labels: Air CutsFind albums on this label, EchoesFind albums on this label, Hi HatFind albums on this label, HotspurFind albums on this label, InterferenceFind albums on this label, KeyholeFind albums on this label, KlondikeFind albums on this label, Live On VinylFind albums on this label, London CallingFind albums on this label, OrbitFind albums on this label, Rox VoxFind albums on this label and Sound StageFind albums on this label. There is no ironclad logic as to what material appears on which label, except perhaps some internal considerations by the Obiterdictum owners.
Approach with caution, but keep in mind that some of these releases are absolutely brilliant!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 21/06/2021 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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