BJH THROUGH THE EYES OF JOHN LEES: REVIVAL - LIVE 1999

Seven out of twelve songs featured on their previous studio album (which featured six old songs, but remixed) are sitting on this live album; of which three new ones : "Festival", "Hors d'Oeuvre" and "Star Bright" (do you follow me ?).

I was rather cautious about the new material from "Nexus" and the live renditions here are just there to confirm. Below average.

For this review, I'll just undertake a nostalgic trip in the past and remind me BJH when I was fifteen (in 1974). I guess that you might know about which songs I am going to talk about, right ?

First of all, "She Said". One of my favourite BJH song. It is maybe not so strong in this version (but this will be a general feeling) but what a nice trip back ! This song is timeless. "For No One" is the second of the great BJH songs. Of course, if you would put both versions side by side, the '74 one would easily be the best choice. But my emotion is very high, I admit. So, I am rather keen on forgiving some vocal imperfections.

The journey continues with "Mocking Bird". I have not counted the different versions available for this song. Who cares ? It is ALWAYS a pleasure to listen to it. Thirty-three years old images passed in front of my eyes and in my brains when I start to remember how much I have loved all these songs...

The last of that kind (of that time), is "Galadriel". Another sublime song. I am just voiceless.

Second category, now. Post "Live '74" songs. Only a super one (on par with their very old classics) : "Poor Man's Moody Blues" of course. Absolutely in-line with their best production. And this version just confirms it.

Thanks guys for this great travel in time. Three stars. Just because the other songs are just not on par at all, although I understand that the goal was not to re-create this jewel of live prog music.