To coincide with the re-releases of the classic Jimi Hendrix discography comes Valleys of Neptune, a collection of recordings by Hendrix and the original Experience ( and some with then new bass player Billy Cox) originally meant to be the sequel to Electric Ladyland in 1969. Much of what you will hear on this CD has long been sought after by fans, and this is the first time on CD that these various sessions have been available.
Though tracks such as "Stone Free", "Fire", and "Red House" are timeless classics, here they are given a new spin thanks to some different arrangements than we are normally used to. For the serious Hendrix collector, the inclusion of the psychedelic title track, a rousing rendition of the blues classic "Bleeding Heart", and the lengthy "Hear My Train A Comin' ", complete with rampaging guitar solos from Jimi, will make this set worth picking up. Other highlights include an instrumental version of the Cream staple "Sunshine of Your Love", the metallic funk of "Mr. Bad Luck", the searing blues of "Lover Man", and the groove laden rocker "Lullaby For The Summer".
As always with any Hendrix recordings, the musicianship and production was way ahead of its time. Though in spots some of these songs sound like a 'work in progress', there's no denying the relevance of much of what is on display here. If you've been searching & hoping for a well put together volume containing these noteworthy sessions, your prayers have been answered. Toss in a great booklet full of notes, info, and photos, and you have another welcome addition to the Jimi Hendrix repertoire.
Track Listing
1. Stone Free 3:45
2. Valleys of Neptune 4:02
3. Bleeding Heart 6:20
4. Hear My Train A Comin' 7:29
5. Mr. Bad Luck 2:56
6. Sunshine Of Your Love 6:45
7. Lover Man 4:15
8. Ships Passing Through The Night 5:52
9. Fire 3:12
10. Red House 8:20
11. Lullaby For The Summer 3:48
12. Crying Blue Rain 4:56
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