Billy Joel - Live at the Great American Music Hall (19752 LP on Opaque Grey - 2023 RSD Edition)
Remember when Billy Joel had hair? I’m pretty sure I wasn’t alive. But in 1975, the man had a full head of hair and was already well on his way to superstardom. Already with three major releases under his belt, Joel strode into the west coast venue ready to put on a show. This record contains the earliest released version of “New York State of Mind” and “James” along with early versions of “Everybody Loves You Now” and “The Entertainer.” For Billy Joel enthusiasts like me, it’s a dream come true to listen through the entire set. I could honestly put Joel’s discography on shuffle and just press plan for an entire road trip and not be disappointed so I’ll try to take that part of my fandom and set it aside for a second.
First, one of the things I love most about vinyl are live performance recordings. While some are better than others, the thing that I love is the way in which the feel of the concert comes through on vinyl in a way that doesn’t translate to listening in your car. Live recordings like this one make you feel like you’re right there. Where many of the Dave Matthews Live Albums that I love seem to feel far away, this recording makes you feel like Billy is sitting right next to you. Every little piece of banter with the crowd and band is captured and the result is nothing short of enthralling.
Additionally, it’s on songs like “Rootbeer Rag” where Joel’s impressive skills on the piano shine through. Not only does he have the timing and control on songs like Roberta, but he has the pure playing talent that simply sets him apart and it’s on full display.
Beyond that, the whole performance has an edge to it. You not only get to experience the exceptionality of Joel’s musicality, but you also get a snapshot of just how impressive an entertainer he is. See what I did there? And he’s a little bit of a jerk too, which I absolutely love. He’s clearly not a fan of the critics who compare him to Elton John, and even takes a minute to do his best Joe Cocker impression on an impromptu version of “You Are So Beautiful.” I give that a solid 8/10, better than most. Joel is funny, snarky, and a showman. He plays to the crowd while they eat it up every step of the way.
Total play time on the album front to back is going to take you a while, but set aside a night and enjoy it all the way through. Don’t plan for a side or just one LP. Listen to all four sides. You’re going to be transported back to a wonderful show and treated to a stellar pressing that deserves to be enjoyed over and over again. There’s only 6500 copies out there, so get one on eBay for around $50 which is a fraction of the cost of the 2019 RSD Carnegie Hall pressing that is still on my DisCogs wantlist. It will be money and time well spent.
(By T.R.S.)