Great performance - too bad about the sound
Douglas C. Heselgrave | West Vancouver, BC Canada | 11/13/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Bob Marley bootlegs are a hit and miss affair. Sometimes they're great in every respect - sound, performance and accuracy. Sometimes the show that is listed isn't the show that's presented. It takes some real work at times to figure out what you're actually listening to. This appears to be the show in Gabon although I think a few tracks are missing. The performance, taken from the last year of Marley's life is amazing, and although there are hints of fatigue and illness - the band seems to pull more of the show's weight than previously and there are almost no breaks between songs - this is a fresh and dynamic performance. Songs like "Running Away" and "Wake up and Live" aren't on any of the official live albums. The price is high - and all of this music could have fit on one CD, but it is worth it. If the sound was better - it sounds like it was recorded on a boom box - I'd give it a 5 star rating. It's up to you to decide. If you've played "live" and "Babylon by Bus" to death, you'll find this a great CD. If you want another great CD from this period, try "Live in Germany 80" Not all these songs are on it, but the sound is much better."
OAKLAND '79 not GABON '80
12/17/2003
(2 out of 5 stars)
"True to form, japanese Wailers' bootlegs are mislabeled and edited. This particular show is sweet, sweet, sweet and was performed in Oakland, CA 11.30.79 not Gabon. Positive Vibration (opening song), Natty Dread, Get Up Stand Up (closing tracks) have been omitted. Marley vocals have a delay(aaay-aay-ay) on various notes/words. Sweet, Sweet, Sweet! However, this recording is presented at a much faster tempo than was actually performed. Suggest you invest the effort in finding online "Marley traders" who can do justice to the spirit of the Wailers and provide the real deal sans pecuniary pursuit. Seen?"
Track Listings (8) - Disc #1