Gene Clark was the Byrds' secret weapon, at least on the group's first
two LPs, where Clark's gorgeous songs, full of classic, minor-key melodies
and his patented smoky vocal delivery, were obvious standouts. Clark's
solo career seemed like a sure thing in 1974, but it never really took
off commercially, although he did tour intermittently with his band the
Silverados, which included Duke Bardwell on bass and Roger White on guitar,
playing small venues and clubs. The trio stripped things down to a simple,
dark formula full of Appalachian vocal harmonies and country pacing, and
this live set from 1975 shows how well the approach worked. Clark fans
are going to love this disc, which features wonderful versions of "Long
Black Veil" and beautiful, haunting takes on two early Byrds classics,
"Here Without You" and "Set You Free This Time." Clark
always deserved more attention and adoration than he received, and this
striking show is just another bit of proof that he was the real heart
and soul of the Byrds.
(by Steve Leggett , All
Music Guide)
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