BBC Sessions

Description

On the 30th anniversary of LIVE AT LEEDS, the Who released this 25-track collection of material recorded between 1965 and 1973. This fascinating aural document provides insight the development of this seminal band from R&B-crazed mods into technically brilliant purveyors of original material. Although the sound quality of the earlier recordings varies a bit, the Whos tight playing and musical nuances (like the groups often-overlooked harmonies) point to greater triumphs in the future. This quartet of soul fans mixes in familiar hits by the Olympics (Good Lovin’) and Martha and the Vandellas (Dancing in the Streets) with more obscure material by Eddie Holland (Leaving Here) and James Brown (Just You and Me, Darling). The last of these nuggets is given a Beatlesque treatment, with Roger Daltreys impressive begs, screams, and shouts. Toward the latter part of BBC SESSIONS, Pete Townshends songwriting talents and guitar playing shine, especially on a distorted take on the obscure Run, Run, Run and a raw and psychedelic version of Disguises. Explosive versions of Relay and Long Live Rock pre-recorded for a January 1973 appearance on the Old Grey Whistle Test wrap up this solid collection.