ATMP’s TOP ROCK LIVE ALBUMS

Playing live is a proving ground for rock bands. Recording and releasing these shows can add to their credibility (without too many overdubs). Regardless of studio magic the following are ATMP's Top Rock Live Albums. Many have made the list for many reasons including memories associated with them. Some are critical darlings; some are not. Some you will think I have lost my mind.

At first, I thought of putting these in numbered order. After one run-through I realized that it was not going to happen.

So, in NO particular order is…

Deep Purple – Made in Japan (1972)

Recorded during their first Japanese tour, this double LP showcases the Mark II lineup at full strength.

The first double album I purchased at 12 years old (yes, before The White Album) this album put Purple into the stratosphere for me. I have no idea why, but the cover is, to this day, one of my favorites. I don’t remember much else except Deep Purple is still one of my favorites. They have never been far from my playlist.

Neil Young & Crazy Horse – Rust Never Sleeps (1979)

Half acoustic and half electric, this album was recorded live but with studio overdubs for polish.

I hate overdubs but the summer of 1979 was memorable to say the least and this was my soundtrack. “It’s better to burn out…”

The Allman Brothers Band – At Fillmore East (1971)

Recorded at New York’s Fillmore East over two nights in March 1971, this double album cemented the Allmans as premier jam masters.

My first experience with The Allman Brothers was hearing “Beginnings” at my best friend’s house. It was in his older brother’s collection and blew me away. I don’t even remember when Fillmore made it to my ears but do remember I was not surprised bat how great it was (is).

Peter Frampton – Frampton Comes Alive! (1976)

One of the best-selling live albums ever, this was recorded at multiple shows in 1975.

I know, I know, blah blah blah. I used to point out that it was the law in 1976 that this LP must be in every teen collection. Although that fact, and radio, ruined it for many, it is still the law. Great sort-of “Live” LP… overdubs and all.

Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band – Live Bullet (1976)

Recorded at Detroit’s Cobo Hall, this album captured Seger’s powerful hometown shows.

‘Night Moves’ came first; ‘Live Bullet’ was next, although released earlier in 1976. Next came my attendance at many of their show, including Rich Stadium with Yes and J.Geils (speaking of great live LPs that did not make this list). I also remember Alto Reed popping up in the cheap seats during his ‘Turn the Page’ solo.

Jimi Hendrix – Band of Gypsys (1970)

Recorded on New Year’s Eve 1969–70 at the Fillmore East, this album introduced Hendrix’s new trio with Buddy Miles and Billy Cox.

Getting stoned with one of my best friends growing up in his attic. Add in “Machine Gun”. Enough said.

David Bowie – David Live (1974)

Recorded at the Tower Theater in Philadelphia during the Diamond Dogs tour, this double LP leans heavily on Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane as well.

In many circles, I have (and will) get slammed on this choice. Sometimes it can be the simplest reason. One of my oldest sisters was obsessed with Bowie. Her, thus mine, collection included Pin-Ups and Diamond Dogs. These fell in line perfectly in with my Mott The Hoople phase. Memories.

Lynyrd Skynyrd – One More from the Road (1976)

Recorded at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, this double LP features definitive live versions of “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.”

First time I saw them was in Syracuse NY in 1974. They headlined with Bad Company and Edgar Winter as the opening acts. There is a great story to go with this I will pass on at some other time. As a sidenote, Ronnie Van Zant (and Skynyrd’s Producer Al Kooper) were huge fans of Free / Paul Rodgers.

UFO – Strangers in the Night (1979)

Captured on their 1978 U.S. tour, this double album is a showcase and great introduction to one of my favorites at that time.

I first saw them in one may call an interesting line-up. Rochester NY – 1978. They were second on triple bill with The Outlaws and Pat Travers. They kicked ass – this is my ‘souvenir’ from that show.

Free: Free Live (1971)

See: Jimi Hendrix – Band of Gypsys (1970). - Same Place. Same time.

I had listened to this previously but this was the first time that Andy Fraser’s bass lines in “Mr. Big”. I believe I said “Holy sh*” and I meant it. I had been turned on to Free before this but damn….

Uriah Heep – Uriah Heep Live (1973)

Recorded on their 1973 European tour and released as a double LP, this album showcases Uriah Heep at their early-’70s peak.

I had never listened to Uriah Heep before seeing them on The Midnight Special in 1973. Hooked me for a while. I don’t listen to this as much any longer but the memory of their appearance has never left me.