Live in Santa Monica '72

I second most reviews about this famous and important live recording by Bowie & Spiders.

Just a note: Some Bowie talking between songs are cut out, compared to the Golden Years release some years ago. Compare for instance the intro to "Andy Warhol".

Much better than the soundtrack live album from Ziggy Stardust The motion Picture, the band sounds raw and rocking. Mick Ronson was brilliant of course. I used to have the widely available bootleg of this on LP. This package comes with some great pictures and notes in a box and of course sounds much better than my well-worn record.

A wonderful performance by the Spiders from Mars. It showcases, Bowie and Ronson in the early years
Ronson's back up vocals, blend well with Bowie's early sound.
Wish I could have been there!

This album is an absolute gem. I've never been the biggest Bowie fan, but have always been looking for a good live album from him. This production is increadible from top to bottom. The sound quality is phenomenal with just the right amount of crowd noise and quality vocal/instrumental mixing. Also, the set list cannot be beat. All the quality Bowie tunes including the best tracks that you don't hear every day on your local classic rock radio. Even the classics, with solid guitar solos, jams, and lyrical variations, are a big improvement from the original recordings. Overall, this album is a must have for any classic rock fan regardless of whether or not you're a huge Bowie enthusiast.

It's about time that the grail of Bowie LIVE has been professionally produced. The quality is spot on. If you want Bowie, Ronson at their best this is the album (CD) to get. Hey, you even get a ticket to the show.
GUNN