Playin' In The Band
Aug. 12, 1972
Sacramento Memorial Auditorium
Keith is a little too high in the mix, over-saturating at points, but the overall effect is just fine. A great jam, and particularly interesting as it marks (to my ears) the first real indication of some new sounds and ideas that inform the Playin's of the era. This one just doesn't sound like Europe anymore, and it's on its way to the outrageousness we know and love from the 2nd half of '72. For those who think that Veneta is the apotheosis of Playin', (I don't, but it's pretty goddamned good, obviously) check this one out as one of its immediate predecessors.