1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Tribute to Tribute (older Japan edition), May 12, 2009
I beleive this Japan edition is from '91 (according to back cover). That's around 4 years after this came out in the first place and the recording probably sounds more similar to the original analogue (record) recording. It has different frequencies than the 2002 US edition reissue, which I also have. To compare, the 2002 edition is altogether louder, and seems to have more reverb, which means the guitar lines don't come out as crisp and clean as they seem to on this older Japan issue. I prefer the Japan issue - while it is less powerful in the volume department, the licks just sizzle in a way that I like better than the 2002 US edition. The reverb and volume boost on the 2002 edition make the recording somewhat hollower and muddy sounding by comparison. This is just my opinion. Also to be fair, I am using my dvd player and TV speakers so perhaps it is different for people with the proper stereo system. All the same, I'm keeping my Japan edition and sending the other one to the second-hand shop. Of course this Japan edition is too expensive, but if you can come by it for a reasonable price, don't hesitate. It may give you a new appreciation for this album - prime Ozzy and Randy in a concert that is just first rate. Hearing Randy's licks and Ozzy's voice without all the reverb (even the audience sounds better proportioned, more balanceed) makes this a different album, and for this reviewer, a better one. There is just more differentiation between the frequencies, Ozzy's voice and Randy's playing are cleaner and 'dryer' - in a way, more 'silent and proper depth' than the 'cave space' which seems to hover about the 2002 edition. It's as if Ozzy, Randy, and the audience each have their position and you can hear where each is in relation to the other more clearly. You do have to turn the volume louder than on the 2002 reissue but what you get in terms of warmth and clarity is better on this older version in my opinion.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
