CONCERT CLASSICS VOL. 4

Similar to other "Concert Classics" recordings near the end of the 1970's, this one starts out with some mix problems on the first track, that are soon fixed for the rest of the cd. This should in no way deter you from purchasing this cd; it's VERY enjoyable.

This is the only place where you'll find a legal recording of all four original members of U.K. live in concert, and they sound just superb. The best thing about it is being able to hear three songs (with slightly different arrangements) from the yet-to-be-recorded "Danger Money" album being performed live with Bruford's drumming, and Holdsworth's guitar touches - neither performer was still with the band when that studio album was recorded, so this is special stuff.

You know how a lot of prog acts tend to sound derivative of other prog acts? Well, U.K. ain't one of 'em! With Wetton's strong, rich voice (and melodic bass guitar), Jobson's frenetic keys and violin, the one-of-a-kind sound of Holdsworth's guitar, and Bruford's unique jazz-rock drumming style, this band was an authentic original, forging new and beautiful music in the progressive/jazz fusion genre.

A true supergoup from the 70's that lived up to its expectations, U.K. unfortunately had only a very small catalogue of recorded material (non-bootleg, that is). So a gem like this is hard to pass up. If you can find it, be sure to snatch it up! ESSENTIAL album from one of the greatest progressive rock bands of all time.

4-1/2 stars