Review
Before the Beginning - 1968-1970 Rare Live & Demo Sessions (Remastered) by Fleetwood Mac is a fascinating glimpse into the early days of one of rock's most enduring bands. This collection captures the raw energy and experimental spirit of Fleetwood Mac before they became a mainstream phenomenon. The remastering breathes new life into these tracks, enhancing the clarity and depth of sound while preserving the authenticity of the original recordings. The album takes listeners on a journey through a pivotal period in the band's evolution. The live performances are charged with palpable energy, showcasing the improvisational skills and musical chemistry of the band members at the time. Tracks like the spirited renditions of early classics highlight the blues-infused rock that characterized their initial work. The demo sessions included in this collection offer an intriguing look at the creative process behind some of Fleetwood Mac's most iconic songs. Hearing these raw, unpolished versions provides a unique perspective on how the band crafted their sound and constructed their musical identities. There’s a sense of intimacy in these recordings that draws listeners closer to the band’s artistic journey. Fans of Fleetwood Mac will appreciate the chance to hear these rare gems, which reveal the band’s roots and the groundwork for their later success. For new listeners, this compilation serves as a captivating introduction to the band’s formative years and the evolution of their sound. Overall, Before the Beginning is an essential collection for anyone interested in the legacy of Fleetwood Mac, offering a compelling reminder of their versatile musical beginnings.
Info
Before the Beginning - 1968-1970 Rare Live & Demo Sessions (Remastered) by Fleetwood Mac is a collection of rare live performances and demo recordings from the early years of the band, showcasing their transition and evolution in sound. It was released on May 14, 2021, and is available in both the UK and the US. The album reached a highest chart position of 14 in the UK and did not chart in the US. The record was released by BGO Records and features recordings captured at various locations during the late 1960s to early 1970s. The production of the album was overseen by various members of the band, highlighting the raw and authentic essence of Fleetwood Mac's music during this formative period.
Tracklisting
- Madison Blues (Version 1) [Live] [Remastered]
- Something Inside of Me (Live) [Remastered]
- The Woman That I Love (Live) [Remastered]
- Worried Dream (Live) [Remastered]
- Dust My Blues (Live) [Remastered]
- Got to Move (Live) [Remastered]
- Trying So Hard to Forget (Live) [Remastered]
- Instrumental (Live) [Remastered]
- Have You Ever Loved a Woman (Live) [Remastered]
- Lazy Poker Blues (Live) [Remastered]
- Stop Messing 'Round (Live) [Remastered]
- I Loved Another Woman (Live) [Remastered]
- I Believe My Time Ain't Long (Version 1) [Live] [Remastered]
- Sun Is Shining (Live) [Remastered]
- Long Tall Sally (Live) [Remastered]
- Willie and the Hand Jive (Live) [Remastered]
- I Need Your Love So Bad (Live) [Remastered]
- I Believe My Time Ain't Long (Version 2) [Live] [Remastered]
- Shake Your Money Maker (Live) [Remastered]
- Before the Beginning (Live) [Remastered]