Customer Reviews

Live In Japan '65

5 star:		(15)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I've been a Ventures fan for over 30 years but I only got this CD just recently. This is a totally awesome representation of the live Ventures and one thing that makes it so extraordinary is the sound quality, when taking into consideration the age of this recording. The only thing lacking sonically is the low end is a little weak, but otherwise it's a great-sounding CD. The musical performances sound even better than the studio versions of these songs- they really come to life on the stage. One particular favorite, for me, is "House of the Rising Sun". There's even an impressive drum solo on the final track, something of a rarity in 1965. One minor irritant about this show, however, is that the announcer of the concert introduces about 60% of the material, coming in between most of the performances. Otherwise, this is a jam-up performance from start to finish. Highly recommended if you're into early 60's instrumental surf rock.

This is as great as instrumental rock & roll gets. Much tougher (driving!) than their studio records, this features one of the greatest rock & roll bands of all time at their very best. Far and away the greatest drumming on any live rock & roll record ever made, Mel Taylor's ferocious, driving beat propels even the "slower" songs to the musical equivalent of a one-two punch to the gut. Additionally Nokie Edwards' lead guitar playing is nothing short of spectacular (Note: this isn't a surf record -- the sound is dry and even a little crunchy even on the surf numbers thanks to the Mosrite guitars -- GREAT guitar tone). The set starts out with unbelievable energy and actually picks up so much steam, by the set closer "Bumblebee Twist" 29 songs later they're truly on another plane. If the band's studio records are a little tame for your taste you'd do well to check this out -- one of the greatest and toughest live records you'll ever hear.

I almost didnt buy this cd - I already had most of the Dolton/Liberty studio albums on CD/Vinyl and also the live "Ventures On Stage" album from 1965-6. I'm so glad I picked it up because this is one of the best recorded live performances of the 1960's and a true testiment to the greatness and importance of the Ventures. They have inspired so many musicans to learn guitar and this CD has 29 great reasons why.

The sound is punchy and super clean with plenty of stereo separation between the instruments (good for learning parts). About the only thing I didn't like is the intrusive Japanese announcements between each song. I wind up fast forwarding to get to the next song, and I wish they were edited out for us english speaking fans. But they were part of this historical performance.

Any fan of instrumental rock (including those uptight UK Shadows fans - Hank & Bruce couldnt rock this hard if they tried!) who thinks the Ventures wern't a great band in the early-mid 60's should pick this CD up because the group's performance is the hottest I have ever heard them. Many tracks surpass the studio versions. The group sounds like they were having a good time playing for the Japanese fans. No wonder why they have stayed loyal to the group for over 40 years!

The Ventures, of course, are the most succesful instrumental rock group of all time. This CD features a live concert from the group's first tour of Japan in 1965. It's a very good concert, with the group performing some of their most popular songs. An odd thing about the concert is that most of the tunes are introduced by a Filipino MC, in both English and Japanese. But that doesn't really detract from the enjoyment of the CD.

I'm always kinda leery about live recordings, but this one was hot! The Ventures LIVE in Japan in 1965! It's awesome! GET IT!

"Live in Japan 65" is most likely the best introduction a newcomer will ever get to The Ventures. The Ventures were at thier best on this recording (Which has excellent sound quality). Nokie Edwards (Lead Guitar)is incredable on this CD. His guitar was setting the stage for late 70's punk tones during songs like "When you Walk in The Room". In "Slaughter on Tenth Avenue" Nokie evokes a saxaphone tone. The "Driving" rhythm section is astonishing too! This CD is a must have for any Ventures fan(or anybody who likes to tap thier toes).

This album is loud, it rocks, and is very enjoyable to listen to. Every song is good. This album is a great live Rock preformance. If you buy it, you'll be satisfied. Even if your not a regular Ventures fan.

This CD contains virtually all of the Ventures' best tunes, played flawlessly. The sound is excellent and with 29 selections, this is a great value.

If you want to know what made the Ventures popular, get this CD. I received it for Christmas 1998, and now I need to borrow it from my kids. Pay special attention to "Driving Guitars", "Caravan", and especially "WIPE OUT."

I was looking for a greatest hits compilation, when I came upon this. Covers all their signature pieces and catches the band at their popular peak. Performances are all very up tempo, and the announcer is way over the top. This can at once be slightly annoying or entirely humorous. I find the cymbals to be a bit bright, but I assume that is the way the original recording was. The sound stage is consistent from track to track, although I gather that there are multiple venues on the record. A very worthwhile purchase even if you are not a hard core fan.