KARLSTAD LIVE

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This is the best thing i've heard from SBB. It's a live concert from Karlstad, Sweden from 1975. In fact in the liner notes the band relates how this recording was held in reverence by their Polish fans at home because of the sound quality and the performance. I also hold reverence for this recording. I haven't felt so emotional and excited in a long time when listening to a cd. There isn't a band in existence that these guys need to take a back seat to when it comes to playing. The drummer reminds me of Peart and Cobham because of how fluid and powerful he is, while the guitarist is simply all over this album.The third member and leader on vocals and Hammond organ etc. is unbelieveable. One reason for this incredible performance was simply how free they felt being away from their communist country of Poland. They described it as : "For SBB, that time was like relaxing in the sunshine, with beautiful people and fairyland atmosphere". This recording absolutely cooks ! By the way each song blends into the next.

"Pretty Face" opens with spoken words from a band member followed by keys, drums and atmosphere. Nice. In fact it reminds me of WEATHER REPORT here. It kicks in at 2 1/2 minutes to a powerfuil sound. Man this guy can drum ! The guitarist is amazing as he rips it up. The vocals come in before 4 minutes as it settles with organ floating in the background. I'm completely blown away by the instrumental display that follows. It blends into "Born To Die" as the organ floats while vocals come and go in a passionate bluesy way. Drums 2 minutes in. Guitar after 3 minutes. I'm humbled at this point and deeply moved. The organ rises to the surface 4 1/2 minutes in and the guitar is lighting it up until it's on fire. Drums come more to the fore after 7 minutes. It settles and blends into "Clouds".

Piano and guitar come and go, some atmosphere here. Cymbals and synths take over 2 1/2 minutes in also coming and going. It's building 4 minutes in as the organ floods in and drums roll. It blends into "Stormy Bay". You have to hear how powerful this is ! The organ, guitar and drums just kill. My God ! It blends into "Wonderful Sky-Ride" where it settles before 2 minutes. Vocals follow as organ and light drums continue.The organ gets louder 4 minutes in then the guitar starts to fire it up as drums pound. No words. It settles and blends into "Return To The South". Drums lead the way with intricate patterns.The guitar comes and goes. It kicks in at 3 minutes. This reminds me of MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA. Check out the drummer ! Love the guitar 7 1/2 minutes in.

Without question one of the best live albums I have ever heard.