Customer Reviews

Live at the Apollo 1995

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I've memorized every note from the first three editions from 125th Street, and can only say that a few parts of the 1995 edition exceed parts of the earlier entries in the series, i.e. an outstanding '95 "Make It Funky" with the Reverend Al Sharpton; a strong biographical ballad "Georgia-Lina"; and two unfortunately abbreviated takes of "Hot Pants" and "The Payback". The remainder are mostly disco-fied versions of "greatest hits". It seems that a great chance was lost to show 'em where the samples really come from.

With all the other JB product out there, I don't know why anyone would buy this if they didn't already own all of the man's classic albums first. That said, this 'greatest hits' live package proves that even in the '90s, James Brown is very much capable of bringing down the house. His voice these days is a rather pale reminder of the nearly supernatural capabilities he once possessed. But, as anyone who has seen him live recently can testify, his touring band is a force of nature and that is why this album is ultimately worth listening to.

This album is one of my five favorites of all time. Brown's performance here gives every indication of his claim to fame of being "The Hardest Workin' Man In Show Business." One song I didn't like of James Brown's until now was "Get Up Offa That Thing" until I heard it on this album. Short versions of "Hot Pants" "The Payback" and "Prisoner Of Love" offer glimpses of James' unique style....even in a brief song he can make the feet move and the body groove. I found myself dancin' to these. "Georgia On My Mind" as James does it on this album serves up a peachy fuck with an kind of tear-jerking emotion that would make any New Yorker long for hamhocks and collards. Rev Al Sharpton's appearance on the album is priceless. Even the Revy is dancin' heavy according to him...at this show. All in all-this is one of James Brown's many masterpieces.