Search - Ventures :: In Japan 1 & 2 (Reis)

Classic!

Rick | NC | 12/21/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've been a Ventures fan for over 30 years but I only got this CD just recently. This is a totally awesome representation of the live Ventures and one thing that makes it so extraordinary is the sound quality, when taking into consideration the age of this recording. The only thing lacking sonically is the low end is a little weak, but otherwise it's a great-sounding CD. The musical performances sound even better than the studio versions of these songs- they really come to life on the stage. One particular favorite, for me, is "House of the Rising Sun". There's even an impressive drum solo on the final track, something of a rarity in 1965. One minor irritant about this show, however, is that the announcer of the concert introduces about 60% of the material, coming in between most of the performances. Otherwise, this is a jam-up performance from start to finish. Highly recommended if you're into early 60's instrumental surf rock."

The ULTIMATE instrumental rock record

Joe Emery | Austin, TX United States | 08/20/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is as great as instrumental rock & roll gets. Much tougher (driving!) than their studio records, this features one of the greatest rock & roll bands of all time at their very best. Far and away the greatest drumming on any live rock & roll record ever made, Mel Taylor's ferocious, driving beat propels even the "slower" songs to the musical equivalent of a one-two punch to the gut. Additionally Nokie Edwards' lead guitar playing is nothing short of spectacular (Note: this isn't a surf record -- the sound is dry and even a little crunchy even on the surf numbers thanks to the Mosrite guitars -- GREAT guitar tone). The set starts out with unbelievable energy and actually picks up so much steam, by the set closer "Bumblebee Twist" 29 songs later they're truly on another plane. If the band's studio records are a little tame for your taste you'd do well to check this out -- one of the greatest and toughest live records you'll ever hear."

The Ventures Knock Out Japan!

Joe Emery | 08/05/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I almost didnt buy this cd - I already had most of the Dolton/Liberty studio albums on CD/Vinyl and also the live "Ventures On Stage" album from 1965-6. I'm so glad I picked it up because this is one of the best recorded live performances of the 1960's and a true testiment to the greatness and importance of the Ventures. They have inspired so many musicans to learn guitar and this CD has 29 great reasons why.



The sound is punchy and super clean with plenty of stereo separation between the instruments (good for learning parts). About the only thing I didn't like is the intrusive Japanese announcements between each song. I wind up fast forwarding to get to the next song, and I wish they were edited out for us english speaking fans. But they were part of this historical performance.



Any fan of instrumental rock (including those uptight UK Shadows fans - Hank & Bruce couldnt rock this hard if they tried!) who thinks the Ventures wern't a great band in the early-mid 60's should pick this CD up because the group's performance is the hottest I have ever heard them. Many tracks surpass the studio versions. The group sounds like they were having a good time playing for the Japanese fans. No wonder why they have stayed loyal to the group for over 40 years!"