One jazz critic called this record “a musical event that could be compared to the Benny Goodman Band performance at Carnegie Hall in 1938.” Can’t say that’s much of a reference for any of us in 2020. Even if you don’t know about Al DiMeola, Paco Delucia and John McLaughlin, (or who Benny Goodman is) this is a fantastic live performance of three guitar greats. Even the most reverent metal maniacs bow to DiMeola’s ability to shred with the best of them – perhaps better than the best of them.
Those of you familiar with this record know the treasure in these grooves. It’s 40 minutes of some of the fiercest guitar playing, period. You don’t always need a Strat and a wall of Marshalls to blaze. Discogs lists 131 different pressings of this album, but original Columia copies are somewhat lifeless, failing to deliver the energy of this now legendary recording. About nine years ago, ORG produced a fantastic version, however, they are all but sold out. Elusive Disc has one or two of these left, but you’ll pay heavily to have it. Internet collectors with sealed copies will charge even more.
Impex Records produced a 33 r.p.m. version a while back and it is excellent, however, their current two-disc, 45 r.p.m. set (mastered by Bernie Grundman and pressed at RTI) captures the most energy of this disc we’ve ever heard.
Listening to these three masters interact in an acoustic space is a treat. All of the audiophile cliches apply (but we’re not gonna use em), so get on the list. We suspect this will sell out fast. Just click here.
And this two disc version has a super cool foil stamped cover! Awesome.
