SpenniesJimi Hendrix - First Rays of the New Rising Sun
June 27th 2006 02:28
JIMI HENDRIX
First Rays of the New Rising Sun (1970/1997)
Universal Records
Produced by Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Kramer & Mitch Mitchell
Link to Amazon w/ audio samples
After Jimi Hendrix's death in 1970, he had nearly completed his fourth studio recording, although it remained unfinished. Several post-humous releases such as 'The Cry of Love' featured these tracks (originally recorded for what was to be a double-album) and spread them out over a few records in the 1970's. However, in 1997, the Hendrix family released 'First Rays of the New Rising Sun' which is arguably the most complete and accurate interpretation of what Hendrix envisioned. Keep in mind that nobody can ascertain exactly what the final product would have held if he had not passed away, but to me this is as viable as any of his other albums and definitely sounds like a Jimi Hendrix record.
Having disbanded the Jimi Hendrix Experience (of whom recorded the first 3 albums) in favour of the Band of Gypsies, Hendrix further built upon his unique style of funk, soul, blues and rock music. Compared to his first foray into the recording world (Are You Experienced?), the sound is more developed and refined, less raw, and with the absence of early producer Chad Channing (whose idea of making records equalled making hits), there is more experimenting with arrangements and song structure (evident in "Night Bird Flying") and more of a focus on songwriting and innovation. It is widely noted that Hendrix had become frustrated with media hype over his stage antics, and these recordings serve as a bridge to introduce a new side of the musician.
As a cohesive album, First Rays of the New Rising Sun showcases everything Hendrix is known for. Funkier tunes like the popular opener "Freedom" and "Dolly Dagger" featuring female backing vocals, some great guitar riffs and a fun vibe that runs through the majority of the album. "Angel" is without doubt one of the most beautiful songs in his catalogue - sprawling, resonating guitar that sounds as though it was recorded through a Leslie speaker that makes for one hell of a soulful ballad. This mood continues in "Drifting", another excellent soul number. There are also some more tradition blues in "My Friend" and "Earth Blues" which is a bit more rocky and psychadelic.
Across the 70 minutes and 17 tracks on offer here, Jimi Hendrix shows just how much he was developing as an artist and creative force (not that he ever wasn't). The album is a mix of incredible guitar playing, multi-instrumentation, excellent songwriting, and a helluvalotta soul. I think I would note this as my favourite Hendrix release, and it's just such as shame that his death signified the end of his recording legacy (but not his money-making legacy!) as I think he would have continued his innovation well into the 1970's and beyond, breaking more boundaries and further developing. But alas, history has a habit of being unkind.
Basically, I would recommend this to absolutely everybody who is a fan of music - it really is a brilliant piece of work.
First Rays of the New Rising Sun (1970/1997)
Universal Records
Produced by Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Kramer & Mitch Mitchell
Link to Amazon w/ audio samples
Having disbanded the Jimi Hendrix Experience (of whom recorded the first 3 albums) in favour of the Band of Gypsies, Hendrix further built upon his unique style of funk, soul, blues and rock music. Compared to his first foray into the recording world (Are You Experienced?), the sound is more developed and refined, less raw, and with the absence of early producer Chad Channing (whose idea of making records equalled making hits), there is more experimenting with arrangements and song structure (evident in "Night Bird Flying") and more of a focus on songwriting and innovation. It is widely noted that Hendrix had become frustrated with media hype over his stage antics, and these recordings serve as a bridge to introduce a new side of the musician.
Working in Electric Lady studios
As a cohesive album, First Rays of the New Rising Sun showcases everything Hendrix is known for. Funkier tunes like the popular opener "Freedom" and "Dolly Dagger" featuring female backing vocals, some great guitar riffs and a fun vibe that runs through the majority of the album. "Angel" is without doubt one of the most beautiful songs in his catalogue - sprawling, resonating guitar that sounds as though it was recorded through a Leslie speaker that makes for one hell of a soulful ballad. This mood continues in "Drifting", another excellent soul number. There are also some more tradition blues in "My Friend" and "Earth Blues" which is a bit more rocky and psychadelic.
Across the 70 minutes and 17 tracks on offer here, Jimi Hendrix shows just how much he was developing as an artist and creative force (not that he ever wasn't). The album is a mix of incredible guitar playing, multi-instrumentation, excellent songwriting, and a helluvalotta soul. I think I would note this as my favourite Hendrix release, and it's just such as shame that his death signified the end of his recording legacy (but not his money-making legacy!) as I think he would have continued his innovation well into the 1970's and beyond, breaking more boundaries and further developing. But alas, history has a habit of being unkind.
Basically, I would recommend this to absolutely everybody who is a fan of music - it really is a brilliant piece of work.
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