We all know that even the best of gear can't duplicate a live performance, but I think we can come somewhat close if we pay attention and really get into the recording. Of course, the recording itself has to be stellar and one should have at least somewhat of a decent rig and have it setup and/or tuned properly. I think its safe to assume that our members here have attained that, whether their system is focused on digital or analog.
Seeing as I've been a member here for quite some time and have followed many discussions, I know that some will feel really tempted to start discussing any and all things technical and how that has to be considered when making a judgement on the topic I created. Please don't. This is NOT about that. This is purely about the recording itself and how close you think it brings you to that feeling of "being there". So put away your math kits and try to stay with the program.
Like many of you, I have a good amount of live recordings that I've acquired through the years and decades. In fact, live recordings are a favourite of mine. I remember as a teenager really getting off (no comments please) and into Steppenwolf Live, the Woodstock 3Lp set and many others. There's an energy about those performances that just sent this 17/18yr old into a state of youthful joy. Over the years I acquired more live recordings and expanded my horizons to include more Blues, Jazz, Swing and other genres. Most of them never really gave me the feeling of being there though.
It wasn't until I heard Jazz At The Pawnshop that I came to understand what could be done on a recording to give you that sensation of almost being at the Stampen as the music was being performed. I've heard a few others since, but not like that. That is until a few years ago when I heard Neil Young - Massey Hall 1971. This 2LP set just blew me away. For me this is the best live recording I have ever heard and when I sit back, close my eyes and listen...I am at Massey Hall in 1971.
What recordings do you have that bring you that almost live feeling?
Seeing as I've been a member here for quite some time and have followed many discussions, I know that some will feel really tempted to start discussing any and all things technical and how that has to be considered when making a judgement on the topic I created. Please don't. This is NOT about that. This is purely about the recording itself and how close you think it brings you to that feeling of "being there". So put away your math kits and try to stay with the program.
Like many of you, I have a good amount of live recordings that I've acquired through the years and decades. In fact, live recordings are a favourite of mine. I remember as a teenager really getting off (no comments please) and into Steppenwolf Live, the Woodstock 3Lp set and many others. There's an energy about those performances that just sent this 17/18yr old into a state of youthful joy. Over the years I acquired more live recordings and expanded my horizons to include more Blues, Jazz, Swing and other genres. Most of them never really gave me the feeling of being there though.
It wasn't until I heard Jazz At The Pawnshop that I came to understand what could be done on a recording to give you that sensation of almost being at the Stampen as the music was being performed. I've heard a few others since, but not like that. That is until a few years ago when I heard Neil Young - Massey Hall 1971. This 2LP set just blew me away. For me this is the best live recording I have ever heard and when I sit back, close my eyes and listen...I am at Massey Hall in 1971.
What recordings do you have that bring you that almost live feeling?