Search - George Benson :: Live & Smokin

You get what you pay for - a poor excuse of a bootleg!

motif8 | Jamaica, New York | 07/22/2001

(1 out of 5 stars)

"No liner notes, just a song list. A bad recording and not enough George Benson! Look elsewhere if you want a real taste of Benson 'Live', like his 'Weekend in L A [LIVE]' album. No idea when or where or with whom this 'Live' album was recorded. This wouldn't be a problem in most cases due to George Bensons' usually high musical standards and excellent recording history but even George Benson can't shine through or withstand the glare of these acts of 'bootleg' omission. You hardly hear Benson play! The most painful part of this recording is when the tunes fade out JUST as Benson is getting into his solos!! None of the songs have an ending they all fade out. The recording is barely adequate with the drums digitally hissing and the piano at times overbearing. We hear more of the pianist, whoever he/she was (except on the track 'Oleo') than Benson. Obviously someone is cashing in on George Bensons' popularity here, to the publics' detriment. Be forwarned! If I could I would give this '0' (zero) stars! Forget about this CD!"