Search - Gillan :: Second Sight

Recycled

eveoflove | North York, Ontario Canada | 05/14/2005

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Made in UK in 2005, Serial# SMDCD-540, Playing Time 101:49



Sure, I could have reviewed the latest Bruce Springsteen album... but I know hundreds of other people will take care of that! So because I try to be helpful instead of popular, I figured I should perhaps cover THIS release (I specialize in "obscurities" LOL.)



Let's get on with it...



This 2 disc release is a compilation of tracks that have been lifted from 6 albums previously released on the "Angel Air" label (basically, not "official" releases per se, but not un-authorised either...):



The Gillan Tapes Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3, as well as "On The Rocks", the "Live At Wembley" from 1982/12/17, and finally the "Live Tokyo" from October 1978.



So this compilation basically consists of half-studio (alternate versions) half-live material. Unfortunately, the live tracks have various recording qualities (some are even in mono!) and because they have been compiled here in a various sequence, it makes for an eclectic sonic experience.



Needless to say that if you already have the 6 separate albums, this compilation is useless. If you don't, you're still probably better to pick 1 or 2 out of the lot; I would suggest "Gillan Tapes Volume 2" if you prefer studio material (which consists of interesting alternate versions) and "Live Wembley" if you prefer the live material (which, even if recorded in mono, features Janick Gers on guitar).



To make a strange analogy, this compilation is like having lumpy mashed potatoes instead of a baked potato: everything's been blended together, but NOT in an enjoyable way.



I would skip this release altogether, not because of the quality of the music, but because of how it's been put together."