Search - Keith Emerson :: Boys Club: Live From California

A light under a bushel!

Ronald J. Foreman | Tucson, Arizona, USA | 11/05/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Wow! Why did it take so long for this gem to be released? If there was any "sweetening" that took place back at the ranch, i can't detect it. One night? One show? Sure wish I'd gotten the memo about this gig. Hard to believe that Emmerson and Hughes, whose respective bands ELP and Deep Purple co-headlined California Jam in 1974, are "reduced" to playing what is basically a club date a quarter century later.



What folks need to know is that Hughes is peaking NOW, producing outstanding solo material that stretches far beyond the long shadow of his brief Deep Purple stint. And, while Emmerson is currently battling a disabling issue that prevents him from touring, his recorded output in the last decade or so is terrific. Both artists have worked with Marc Bonilla, who has carved out a niche by teaming with all sorts of "recovering" musicians, most recently (for me) original Chicago drummer Danny Seraphine with his "California Transit Authority project." Keyboard player Ed Roth is ubiquitous on recordings by these artists too. Clearly a formula that results in "keeper" music from all concerned.



I'm almost ashamed now to admit I lost track of Hughes and Emmerson during the '80s and '90s, while complaining that there was precious little quality music to be found. Guess I just wasn't looking hard enough! Now, I'm playing catch-up, and can attest that every back catalog and new title released by these artists is a heart-and-soul affair that will not disappoint."