Free/Germany 10.09.1969 Complete

Even the original FREE recordings from 1969 are extremely valuable. This long-form live album is now available. FREE itself is a band with far too few records compared to their presence in rock history, but the earlier the recordings, the more difficult it becomes. Even in 1969, when they made their debut, it’s a blessing that even fragments remain. While many enthusiasts believe they can’t hope for a full recording from 1969, there are long recordings that appear to be almost full stages. This is the “October 9, 1969 Essen Performance.” It’s an audience recording from their appearance at the “INTERNATIONALES ESSENER POP & BLUES FESTIVAL.” Some of you may recognize this title. This festival features black-and-white pro shots, and has been featured in PINK FLOYD’s “SONG DAYS FESTIVAL ’69” and “INTERNATIONALES ESSENER POP & BLUES FESTIVAL 1969,” a compilation of six groups, including DEEP PURPLE and THE NICE. Unfortunately, there are no pro shots of FREE, but audience recordings remain. While these are valuable records, the sound is also superb. “Trouble On Double Time” from this album is even featured on “STOCKHOLM 1970.” “STOCKHOLM 1970” is a superb soundboard album that rivals even “FREE LIVE!” Its quality is such that it could be added to the mix. The key is its powerful core. Of course, it’s a vintage audience, and not as intimately connected as a soundboard. However, while the tone is audience-like, the power rivals that of a soundboard, making it truly dynamic. The show depicted by that sound is truly amazing. While it’s actually quite short at about 36 minutes, it’s likely a full recording, as it was only recorded at a festival (though the lack of materials from that time makes it difficult to say for sure). And it’s the content itself that’s so rich. Let’s break down the set and appreciate its richness. It includes TONS OF SOBS (2 songs), The Hunter/I’m A Mover FREE (4 songs), Woman/Free Me/Trouble On Double Time/Songs Of Yesterday (and others), and Mean Old World (a cover of T-Bone Walker). Naturally, there’s no “Fire and Water” or “All Right Now,” and the focus is on the “TONS OF SOBS” and “FREE” repertoire. Moreover, rare songs like “Free Me” and “Trouble On Double Time”—seen even later in BAD COMPANY and Paul Rodgers’ solo career—are also performed. The highlight, however, is “Mean Old World.” This is a cover of T-Bone Walker’s song, performed with passion for approximately six minutes. Not only is it not included on any album, but it’s also hard to find on “FREE LIVE!”, even on “LIVE AT THE BBC” and “FOREVER.” Experience this incredibly rare track, unique to 1969, performed live by those four musicians. The original FREE, while leaving behind numerous classic albums and performances, quickly fell apart. This is an extremely valuable live album that allows you to enjoy over 30 minutes of the start of that era, “1969.” Its historical value transcends any other title, making it a cultural heritage piece. “Internationales Essener Pop & Blues Festival”, Grugahalle, Essen, Germany 9th October 1969 TRULY AMAZING/PERFECT SOUND 1. The Hunter 2. Woman 3. Mean Old World 4. Free Me 5. Trouble On Double Time 6. I’m A Mover 7. Songs of Yesterday Paul Rodgers – vocals Paul Kossoff – guitar Andy Fraser – bass Simon Kirke – drums