Steve
Hillage should all prog-infected space rock fans primarily for his work as
guitarist with a legend of the genre, Gong to be
known. The solo career under his own name first started out quite successful,
but ultimately was Hillage another prominent victim of the creative
decline of progressive rock. Precisely for this phase are the recordings of
"Live In England 1979", in the context of the then BBC television series' Rock
Goes to College 'were transferred simultaneously in the auditorium of the
University of Kent live on TV and radio. There had Hillage himself - as
he proclaims in the welcome - some years previously studied.
1979
emerged as these recordings was Hillage apparently - as so many
established artists - under the impression of that time dramatically changing
musical landscape. So attracted punk, wave and funk into his compositions and
expanded its space rock is not always to the delight of supporters.The (colored)
rhythm section at the time of recording was the 'black' Groove certainly
contrary. Great influence exercised probably Hillages partner, the
synthesizer specialist Miquette Giraudy , from which more clearly later
pretended the electronic direction.
As
pleasing as the publication of these rare recordings is so disappointing is
sound and picture quality. Well, in the latter case one can immediately push
more eyes, because the then technical standard was not too much more. The
grisseligen images nourish the rather promising vintage nostalgia factor of the
material. The relatively few cameras are not necessarily a disadvantage, because
it will allow long shots without too hectic cuts. Hardly acceptable is the dull,
almost musty sound quality especially with the CD - because you will not be
distracted by the film footage - beech ugly strikes. Sorry, but here you would
necessarily have to undergo the master tapes of editing!
The
"Salmon Song" from the 1975 solo debut "Fish Rising" represents a fantastic,
very 'space-strength' entry, which can literally bounce in your head the
salmon. "Unzipping The Zype" is also compelling.
Donovan's Flower
Power hippie anthem "Hurdy Gurdy Man" (as a bonus on the CD or in an equally
appealing 'Glissando' version) clearly belongs to the credit side of "Live In
England 1979'.
Unfortunately,
then shredded the hitherto recognizable 'red line' something. The Punk Song
"1988 Activator" clearly belongs to the species 'What is this, dammit?'. The
following "Unidentified (Flying Being)" is okay, but falls with his danceable
funk-rock-jazz duly note from the frame. The Beatles cover
of "It's All Too Much" you can also into the category of 'nice' sort (is there
anything worse?). During the entire musical examination, however, the sound
quality initially described must be considered!
The
bonus material on the CD as well as DVD you can call in order. Here mainly
provide "Radio" and "Light In The Sky" (within the BBC program 'The Old Grey
Whistle Test' recorded) with great camera angles, great sound effects and a real
value. A good half-hour interview with Steve Hillage and Miquette
Giraudy complete the additional offering.
Many
of Steve Hillage fans will be delighted by the publication of this
hitherto unpublished photographs. This is exactly what should be 'Live In
England 1979 "the clear target group. However, the weaknesses of the sound
quality are striking. This should be taken into consideration before making a
purchase.
Line-up:
Steve Hillage (vocals, guitars, synthesizers)
Miquette Giraudy (synthesizer, vocals),
Andy Anderson (drums),
John McKenzie (bass, vocals),
Dave Stewart (guitars, glissando guitar, vocals)
Steve Hillage (vocals, guitars, synthesizers)
Miquette Giraudy (synthesizer, vocals),
Andy Anderson (drums),
John McKenzie (bass, vocals),
Dave Stewart (guitars, glissando guitar, vocals)
CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FROM GONZO
 | Live in England 1979 CD - £9.99 |
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