Search - LIVE IN CALIFORNIA 74 on DVD

Don't let this release be "Mistreated" any longer!

Craig Fenton | Airplaneville, New Jersey | 06/24/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

Having been a passionate and fanatical Deep Purple collector not only with the classic Mark II line-up of Ian Gillian and Roger Glover but from the original Mark I days of Rod Evans and Nick Simper, I can see why it would be difficult for some to believe a Mark III release could distinguish itself with sush accolades. What is impossible to comprehend is the memory loss of audio and video technology before the digital age.

Before the words, CD and DVD existed record conventions were attended by the millions per year as fans searched for rare material. They would frequently pay between twenty-five and thirty-five dollars for an unauthorized VHS recording of a live concert. Often it would include no cover, track information and any search team did not recognize the brand of tape.

Why is it repeatedly when we have the tremendous joy of reliving one of the best musical nights ever and can get the entire Deep Purple set at a good price we must complain about the audio and video glitches?

To make sure you are getting the complete video of the famed "California Jam" Click on the 2006 title "Live In California 1974" by Eagle Vision. Many previous copies of video didn't contain "Lay Down, Stay Down."

If a day of music includes Emerson, Lake, & Palmer as well as Deep Purple let us preserve the moment and not attack the production and editing crews.

Starting with the title track to their "Burn" album Purple hits the stage and creates their own California earthquake. The classic riff is timeless and the sheer energy has the crowd fixated from the opening notes.

"Might Just Take Your Life" from the same record gives the audience an opportunity to judge the change in vocal styles. The composition is shorter than its predecessor is and done a few notches in volume. A much-underrated song.

"Lay Down, Stay Down" (A song from "Burn") is finally available to the masses. Left off prior releases from overseas it fits nicely here.

"Mistreated" (Coming off "Burn as well) is to David Coverdale fans what "Child In Time" is to the great contingency of Ian Gillian faithful. Coverdale places his heart and soul on stage by the time the ten-minute gem is complete. Judge this not against Ian's superlative craftsmanship as a vocalist but strictly how you feel Coverdale pulled this off in front of a zillion folks.

"Smoke On The Water" from the one of a kind "Machine Head" is relentless. From the opening riff that is recognized in every country and galaxy Blackmore's guitar explodes. Pay homage to the great drumming by Ian Paice. Credit Coverdale because if you listen to the vocals he never rewrote history. The line "We all came out" is delivered "They all came out." He is well aware that particular moment in time wasn't with him.

"You Fool No One" (Off the "Burn" album)/"The Mule"(From "Fireball") at over nineteen minutes is exceptional in showcasing the improvisational skills of the band. Blackmore would be worth the price of admission but when you factor Jon Lords' perfect ability when to shine and when to hold back as well as Paice's perfect adaptation for any length tune, it only is further enhanced by the visuals.

"Space Truckin" ("Machine Head") is an epic. Contains over twenty-five minutes of Purple's exploration into the far reaches of improvisation. They are one of a handful of bands when extended songs to infinite lengths never lose the eyes and ears of the listener.

If you notice Blackmore's anger, he was upset long before the camera people got too close to his face. The initial outbreak occurred with a battle to make sure Deep Purple headlined, followed by the exact time they would take the stage. His displeasure with camera people only elevated his anger meter once again.

A quick side note. You have read how loud Purple played at the California Jam. They actually would surpass the disable level to record-breaking territory when they played Radio City, New York with Tommy Bolin in support of the "Come Taste The Band" tour.

After 30 plus years this is the best way to relive or discover a special night from an amazing band.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"
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