Search - Animals :: In the Beginning Live

Animals blast off

Jinkyu | 05/26/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Purported to be the earliest recording ever released by The Animals, this live CD displays the roots of this roots band, ever gritty and raw. The Animals were so-named because of their wildness on stage and earthy music by the crowds whom they always worked up at Newcastle's Downbeat Club in England, where this set was recorded in late 1963. All of the songs except "C-Jam Blues" are covers of R&B legends: three by Chuck Berry, two by John Lee Hooker, and the other will not be hard to figure out, not just by the title but the trademark "Who Do You Love" signature. The best track is the opener, "Let It Rock," fittingly chosen as such, in which Alan Price's organ leads the charge into an evening's solid performance. Sonny Boy Williamson, the evening's headliner, played drums with the group on "C-Jam Blues." This CD is worthwhile as a collector's item for sure, but these classic roots songs will always to some degree be timeless and enjoyable as performed by this great band."

Excellent Album

D. Modee | Portsmouth, NH United States | 08/04/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Very raw and gritty... once you listen to this the studio songs will never sound the same again !! The songs on this album are full of spirit and really get you going - absolutely worth buying."