Dave Mason / MN, USA 07.25.1986 Complete FM Broadcast Edition

After his 1980 album “OLD CREST ON A NEW WAVE,” Mason’s album releases ceased. The way he found a way forward was through live performances with his partner Jim Krueger, playing acoustic guitar and singing together. While the lack of album releases meant they couldn’t cover the expenses of continuing the band, the fact that both were masters of acoustic guitar meant these performances were well-received, and this format of live show continued until Krueger’s death in 1993. A prime example of this popularity is the acoustic live performance held in Minneapolis in 1986, recorded on the radio. For the reasons mentioned above, the 1980s are often overlooked, but this astonishing stereo soundboard recording, showcasing the fulfilling acoustic live performances Mason and Krueger delivered, is sure to surprise fans worldwide. Due to its nature as a radio broadcast, it has been available on YouTube before, but the fact that this release is based on a version with far superior sound quality is a major attraction. The sound quality is outstanding, and the simple formation of only acoustic guitars means that the two musicians’ playing, coming from the left and right in stereo, leaps out of the speakers with incredible clarity. As it’s just the two of them, the basic structure of Mason on vocals and rhythm guitar with Krueger on lead is very easy to understand. Krueger’s guitar playing, in particular, shines throughout, reminding us once again that he was Mason’s best partner. From this original unplugged setup, they unleash a veritable storm of their signature songs. Yet, “Only You Know and I Know,” which would be perfectly suited to acoustic performance, is not played; instead, the selection of interesting cover songs shines. Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away” is a piece they do with ease, and before that, there’s even a rare moment unique to a solo acoustic performance, where the two of them play a country-style instrumental featuring Krueger. The highlight is the surprising cover of The Beatles’ “Dear Prudence,” performed as a medley from “Shouldn’t Have Took More Than You Gave,” following Mason’s comment, “In memory of John Lennon.” Indeed, the melodies are similar, and they connect beautifully even when played consecutively. Moreover, it’s an exquisite cover that perfectly suits the two’s acoustic style. This is a superb acoustic show recording that perfectly captures the live performances Mason delivered in the 80s, when attention tends to focus only on his glorious 1970s, all in perfect stereo soundboard quality! Mississippi Riverbank Club, Minneapolis, MN, USA 25th July 1986 STEREO SBD (79:06) 01. Tuning, Talk 02. Feelin’ Alright 03. World in Changes 04. Every Woman 05. Sad and Deep As You 06. Instrumental) 07. The Words 08. Not Fade Away 09. Let It Go, Let It Flow 10. Shouldn’t Have Took More Than You Gave 11. Dear Prudence 12. Bird On The Wind 13. We Just Disagree 14. Maybe 15. Dust My Broom 16. All Shook Up 17. Bring It On Home To Me 18. Dear Mr. Fantasy 19. All Along The Watchtower 20. Take It To The Limit Dave Mason – Vocals, Guitar Jim Krueger – Guitar, Vocals STEREO SOUNDBOARD RECORDING