WELCOME TO THE CANTEEN

This live album captured "the return of the prodigal son" Dave Mason, who previously had left the band on few occasions. As a sign of repentance he brought two of his solo compositions to this live set, where he sang solo vocal and contributed with fine guitar solo. (In this period TRAFFIC were basically acting as guitar-less band, with occasional Winwood jumping onto the instrument). "Medicated Goo" is better here than on "Last Exit" album. "40000 Headmen" and "Dear Mr. Fantasy" are excellent and representative songs of TRAFFIC style and both sound very good in this extended stage line-up (additional drummer, percussionist and bassist), with the latter being extended into improvisation jam clocking over 10 minutes. Finally, another long jam is reserved for R'n'B classic "Gimme Some Loving" which sounds like psychedelic soul version that would not be out of place on a Sly and Family Stone album. "Welcome to the Canteen" is good live album from the transitional progressive period of TRAFFIC, but for the prog rock community the following live effort, "On The Road" is better to check.