wonderful music...horrible recording
I had this recording in vinyl and have loved it for a long time. I sold all my albums years ago and have slowly replaced the best ones (I had a LOT of vinyl so it's taken a long time). I cannot recall whether the sound quality was particularly bad on the elpee. But this "remastered" version sounds like a bootleg, especially on the cover songs which had appeared on side 2 of the album. The mix is VERY spotty and uneven, and the sound is muddy in a lot of places. Perhaps Castle Records didn't have much to work with...after all, it's a 25 year old master tape of a live concert (not sure how much of a difference that makes). The CD is still worth having though, if only for the thrill (no kidding) of listening to the first three cuts. They are truly awesome. Few musicians are as talented and complete as Todd Rundgren...he's a great vocalist, guitarist and composer as well as a visionary. None of his best songs sound the least bit dated (even though many are 25 or 30 years old) because they are so well crafted.
Great live concert
Have loved listening to Todd since 1973 and have been to all of his concerts, in Michigan, including the one at Pine Knob, near Detroit, where this was recorded. We (about 15 of us) sat fifth row center and the concert was awesome. Would recommend this recording to any true Todd fan.
I was present for this recording.
This live recording was culminated from a series of concerts that Utopia performed during August of 1975. [...] this is an actual live album. Whether or not crowd noises were mixed in the studio is subject to discussion however I was present during this particular song. As a matter of fact, it was festival seating, we were there very, very early and Todd exited the stadium prior to the opening with an attractive girl, they took a walk along the Ohio river alone, he spoke to us when leaving and returning to the stadium. Very cordial and I still feel badly for my inebriated behavior during the show. You know how it is when you are young and stupid. This album has been one of my favorites since it's release. I also have the vinyl release on Bearsville Records.
Hey All, How's the Sound???????
I have the original CD and love it. I wonder if Bernstein ever thought about "Something's Coming" sounding like this. But my favorite is "Heavy Metal Kids" which just CRANKS-Todd must have been channeling Ted Nugent or something.
BUT would someone please comment if the remastering actually sounds better?
Where Was It Really Recorded?
In the other reviews, at least three writers claim the show that was recorded on this CD was in their town. Please let me set the record straight! Todd used sound effects records to create the audience noise, so I wonder what the other reviewers had for breakfast that day!
If anyone saw Todd perform with "A Walk Down Abbey Road" this year, or last, they will know what he can do with a cover song.
Many fans say "Todd is Godd", but personally, I am pushing for Saint-hood!
Digitally remastered reissue of original album by Todd Rundgren's art/ prog/ power pop group. Contains all eight tracks from when the album was first released in 1975, many of which are cover versions. Also features the original cover art & new interviews in the liner notes. 1999 release.
