PFM - THE BEST OF ABSOLUTELY LIVE 1971-1978

When time will allow, I will post my review for the full "10 Anni Live" which consits of no less than four live CD's from this legendary band. The whole covers their career from the early days through the end of their golden era.

This CD is a good compromise though, since it (almost) groups the essence of the four volumes entity. It starts with two fine covers (although the sound is not top notch). Figure out: "Schizoid Man" and "Bourée". Both of them are quite convincing and the band really adds another tone to the former one. The second is of course more of a repetition of the Tull interpretation (but it is due to the song itself which leaves little opportunity for creativity or added value).

There are some classics of course like "Dove?Quando" (of which the best part is represented), but to have a version of about one minute from the superb "Impressioni Di Settembre" is quite a shame. A total massacre! It is one of my preferred song from the band and it would have deserved to sit here in a full length version.

Instead we'll get some improvisations (quite well executed, no doubt about this) like "JC Violin Play", "WB Violin Jam", "Spanish Jam" as well as the dull "La Grande Fuga". Quite incomprehensible to say the least. Another average one is the short (thank god!) "Violin West Jam". Some sort of country "homage" to their US audience. Press next.

The version of "Alta Loma 5 Till 9" is shorter than the one available on "Cook" but it is quite an extraordinaire showcase for its violin section. A great moment indeed. Another classic that is introduced as never been released outside of Italy (in those days of the live recording) is the great "La Carrozza Di Hans".

Fully Crimsonesque, technically brilliant and emotionally fantastic. Superb fluting indeed. This live version is much harder than the original (which I prefer). The sweet and pastoral "Trespass-esque" parts are almost forgotten here to leave the place to a darker and heavier track. Still, it is quite enjoyable.

Needless to say that both "Four Holes In The Ground" and "Chocolate King" (which is probably a wink to us Belgians who are the kings of chocolate) are quite remarkable and really raised the quality level of this live compilation.

To summarize my feeling (but I think it is obvious), this album has two directions: the great and classic "PFM" tunes and some improvs or unnecessary items. As such, this work deserves three stars IMHHO.