Search - Ricky Nelson :: Best Of Rick Nelson Live!

A Great Value for the Casual Fan

Edward Gubman | 11/04/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"This may not be the greatest of the Rick Nelson collections, but it's a fun album and a great value at the price. All of the biggest hits are here, and the band is really tight. There are a few short but exceptional jams, especially on "That's Alright Mama" and "Believe What You Say." The only downside is Rick's voice. He's not in top-shape here, but he can reach most of the notes. On the other hand, the background vocals are terrific and cover for any shortcomings Rick might show. There's a particularly interesting version of "It's Late." I would have preferred a more expansive version of "Fools Rush In"--it feels like he rushed through the song. Rick clearly shows more interest in the songs that weren't his teenage hits. Still, you can't go wrong if you're looking for a Rick Nelson sampler at an inexpensive price."

Rick Nelson Live 1983-1985

Ron | Tacoma, WA | 10/15/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"We're lucky they recorded these concerts in 1983 and '85, as Rick was soon to be taken from us in a terrible accident. In 1983, the Stone Canyon Band broke up, and Rick put together a new band that emphasized his rockabilly roots. This could be seen as Rick finally caving into the nostalgia craze he criticized in "Garden Party", but the way this band played the oldies made them fresh and contemporary sounding. Some songs stay fairly close to the original versions "(Travelin' Man", "Hello Mary Lou", "Poor Little Fool"), while others are rearranged and updated ("Believe What You Say", "That's All Right", "It's Late"). The Jordanaires provide excellent vocal backup, and lead guitarist Bobby Neal plays great solos throughout. Rick's voice is much more mature than on his 50's records, which makes the depression of "Lonesome Town" much more believable, while his vocal on "Never Be Anyone Else but You" sounds warmer than the original. This CD is a good buy for the money - especially if you're on a low budget like I was when I bought it in 1998."

Great CD at a great price

Stephanie D. | Dayton, OH United States | 05/15/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you want a great little snapshot of a Rick Nelson performance you got it right here. He sings his hits and really gives it all he's got. Singing live isn't easy and he gives a very good vocal performance. Is he a gifted singer? Does he hold any notes any longer than he has to? No, but he shows his personality and what he truly is, a rock and roll singer! He was America's first teen idol, made the first music video in 1962 with "Travelin' Man" and he sings his hits on this CD with much more energy than he did when he was a just a kid in the 50's. No wrong notes to be found anywhere to my ear. It's one of my favorite CD's and it will be one of yours."