bassist695's Full Review: The Best Of Jimi Hendrix [Box] by Jimi Hendrix
As someone who really only discovered the music of Jimi Hendrix only about 2 years ago, this boxed set is like discovering that there's more to a book than the cover.
After purchasing his Band of Gypsies CD a couple years ago, his style and flair really made me appreciate music more. For quite some time, it was the only CD of his that I owned. After coming to school here last year, I downloaded several songs of his off Napster, I purchased another compilation of his entitled Blues, followed by Electric Ladyland and Axis:Bold as Love.
At this point after moderate exposure, I was still seeking to expand my exposure to the style of this truly revolutionary musician.
Then on September 12, 2000, The Jimi Hendrix Experience boxed set was released. Like a purple velvet time capsule, its 56 songs that span four CDs serve as a tribute to the man who left the music world 29 years ago. Unbeknownst to many, this is Hendrix's one and only boxed set. His sister and father were the main instruments in making sure this compilation became a reality (and are reaping the benefits of his work...), and such documented research is evident in an 80-page colorful insert imbued with pictures, biographical information, and backgrounds of every single song.
My 5 Favorite Tracks:
Hey Joe
Recorded Live at Olympia Theatre; Paris, France, 10-18-1966
Previously Unreleased Recording (Track 3, CD 1)
If Six Was Nine
Recorded at Olympic Studios, London, May 4, 5, June 9, 1967
Previously Unreleased Alternate Recording (Track 12, CD 1)
Little Wing
Recorded: Olympic Studios, London, October 25, 1967
Previously Unreleased Alternate Recording (Track 3, CD 2)
The Wind Cries Mary
Recorded Live At Olympia Theater, Paris, France, October 9, 1967
Previously Unreleased Alternate Recording (Track 5, CD 2)
Gypsy Eyes
Recorded: Record Plant, New York, April 22, 24, 29, May 1, 17, June 17, 1968
Previously Unreleased Alternate Version (Track 12, CD 2)
...ok, if you get the idea, I could keep going. The cool thing is that Hendrix carried some sort of recording device with him wherever he went, and some of that is captured in this collection, particularly in a humorous version of Astro Man.
Some Closing Notes...
The colorful 80-page insert is especially useful, especially if you are music buff to the point that the history of the musician's life is as important to you as the music itself. Overall, the box, the insert, the photography, and most importantly, the music, is all equally as compelling as every other element of the set. As someone who was born 10 years after Jimi's death, I can't easily relate his music to the feeling of the time period of his short career, but you can feel it in his music, that's what is so amazing.
This compilation is a must-have for anyone who considers oneself a true music lover. The music is purely timeless, and helps one realize the true nature of the musician, who wasn't unimaginative as many musicians are today, but instead was the embodiment of true talent.
In 1966/67 The recording for The Jimi Hendrix Experience s debut album, Are You Experienced begins in London, before the group has a record contract. ...More at Buy.com
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