CAUGHT LIVE + 5

As mentioned in the AMG review of this album, the group delayed the CD release of this 2- LP set until 1996 due to the fact that the performance wasn't up tp par. Specifically, some of the boys were high as kites that night! I saw them three times in the early 70's, and I can assure you that this recording is not at all representative of those shows. Which is not to say that it's a bad album. In fact, when it was remastered for CD, the sound quality was improved immensely (also mentioned in the AMG review). The LP release was muddy- sounding and served to amplify the weaknesses of the performances. Much like "Genesis Live", which on LP sounded horrible, but which on CD sounds wonderful. Of course, many of the tracks seem weak simply because they could not be reproduced live without an orchestra, or at least some extra musicians to augment the sound. As with many live rock albums, the acoustic guitar parts are played on an electric guitar, but how was Justin Hayward going to switch in the middle of a song? Yes, the recent live albums sound much better, but it's just not the same to have Joe Whozits on keyboards, and no Mike Pinder songs. Also, the track selection here is pretty good (not just another greatest hits live package). The studio tracks aren't special, but I only paid $10 for a new copy, so all in all I'd say it's a find. Incidentally, there's a DVD floating around that purports to be a live show from this period. Don't buy it, unless you like American Bandstand-style miming (see the AMG review warning readers).