Album of the Week: Live at Woodstock

Artist: Jimi Hendrix

Released: 1999

Originally Recorded: Woodstock Festival, Bethel, New York, August 18, 1969

This album contains the legendary guitar player in all of his glory. Hendrix plays to his heart’s content (see: “Woodstock Improvisation”) delivering an unforgettable performance that still shines to this day. Found on the album are not just incredible performances, but a look back into rock history as you can hear Hendrix discussing things with his band and also with the crowd.

The songs are deep averaging up to five minutes a piece which adds greatly to being able to hear Jimi go off on satisfying shredding moments. Also, the transitions between songs are done very well. For example, after playing one of the most gratifying versions of  “Star Spangled Banner,” Hendrix finds a way to leap right into “Purple Haze.” The results would cause Francis Scott Key himself to tear his shirt asunder in pure rock and roll rebellion.

The following songs are found on the album:

1. Introduction
2. Message To Love
3. Hear My Train A Comin’
4. Spanish Magic Castle
5. Red House
6. Lover Man
7. Foxey Lady
8. Jam Back At The House
9. Izabella
10. Fire
11. Voodoo Child (Slight Return)
12. Star Spangled Banner
13. Purple Haze
14. Woodstock Inprovisation
15. Villanova Junction
16. Hey Joe