Live In London: Encore Edition
Sundazed, 2022
8/10
Listen to Live In London: Encore Edition
A collection of tunes recorded live at Dingwalls, London, England from May 27-28, 1980, this 2xLP or CD set offers several unreleased tracks of Alex Chilton’s inimitable Memphis psychobilly that welcomes Mathew Seligman on bass, Knox on guitar and Morris Windsor behind the drum kit.
“Bangkok” opens the listen with firm thumping and a scrappy, garage rocker, where Chilton’s lazy vocals complement the rawness, and “Tramp” follows with howling singing/talking amid the swirling guitar that’s just so charming.
Deeper into the selections, “Hey! Little Child” embraces the power-pop spirit of his legendary Big Star outfit, while “Rock Hard” recruits some surf friendly guitars to the proto-punk formula that’s full of gritty melody.
The unreleased tracks reside on the back half, and some of the best include the animated bass and expressive singing of Ray Davies’ “Come On Now”, as well as the loose and jangly Marvin Moore tune, “I’m On This Rocket”. Benny Eldson’s “Doubtful Of Your Love” exits the CD portion with a dense, rumbling, turbulent rocker that truly showcases Chilton’s very unique appeal that continues to resonate with fans long after he passed away.
The package comes with new liner notes from Jim Allen, who spent time with those in attendance for the two day pajama party, and it serves as an essential piece of Chilton’s lengthy discography that isn’t a bad place to start for the first time listener, either.
Travels well with: Richard Hell And The Voidoids- Destiny Street Complete; Jonathan Richman & The Modern Lovers- Jonathan Richman & The Modern Lovers