Here And There

Elton John originally released 1975's HERE AND THERE to fulfil contractual obligations to Dick James Music, the label he started out on. Unlike most artists content to put out something sub-par, EJ instead released a pair of recent, exemplary live recordings. The CD reissue includes a number of outstanding additions. The original record split its tracks between two 1974 shows: London's Royal Festival Hall and Madison Garden. John began the London show by revisiting his earlier material, starting solo with "Skyline Pigeon" before being joined by the band for "Border Song". more...

The first batch of bonus material includes "Take Me To The Pilot", "Burn Down The Mission" and a rare duet with Lesley Duncan, the composer of "Love Song". The polite performance of the London material is in direct contrast to the maniacal energy of John's MSG show. Complementing the effervescent readings of Elton hits such as "Funeral For A Friend/Love Lies Bleeding" and "Rocket Man" is John Lennon's last live performance. This mini-part of the set (previously available as a separate EP) features the duo's collaboration "Whatever Gets You Through The Night" along with a pair of Beatles classics, "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds" and "I Saw Her Standing There".

Q (1/96, p.159)
- 3 Stars - Good - "...a greatest hits live set...featuring John Lennon in his last stage appearance..."