The British New Musical Express magazine (NME) listed Elvis Presley's "Aloha From Hawaii" concert in it's top 50 live gig list, at #30, beating U2, Queen and Tom Waits. The comment of the NME editors:
Why it's so good: This gig was broadcast live via satellite, and was the most watched broadcast by an entertainer in TV history, airing in more than 40 countries. At the time, the event was also the priciest entertainment TV special, costing $2.5 million.
The top 5:
01 - Thin Lizzy - 'Live And Dangerous'
02 - Neil Young & Crazy Horse - 'Live Rust'
03 - The Who - 'Live At Leeds'
04 - Radiohead - 'I Might Be Wrong: Live Recordings'
05 - Johnny Cash - 'At Folsom Prison'
30 - Elvis Presley - 'Aloha From Hawaii' Recorded: Honolulu, 1973
Matinee Majesty
The Press-release:
Straight Arrow will release a new CD called "Matinee Majesty" (SA 2011-19-02). It will feature Elvis' full June 26th, 1976 afternoon show from Providence, RI.
Unlike many other concert recordings from 1976, this one is quite enjoyable. It was Elvis' 2nd show of the tour and he was still full of energy and in fine voice. Most of songs are performed well, including the oldies. The highlights, however, are ballads like "And I Love You So", "Love Letters", a double dose of "Hurt" and a majestic performance of the 2nd national anthem, "America The Beautiful".
The fidelity and clarity of this STEREO audience recording is excellent. We believe that you will be pleasantly surprised with such a topnotch recording of a very upbeat performance from what is generally known as a troubled year for our man. As you've come to expect from Straight Arrow, the producers managed to get the best possible source - an original tape was obtained from a person who WAS THERE. This recording was completely restored and the sound was enhanced for the best possible listening pleasure.
The CD package is completed with a 16-page booklet, including a collection of photos from the Providence matinee show and a very positive press review of the show.
"Matinee Majesty" will be released in March, 2011. Don't miss your chance to obtain another cool show from The King. It is a magical prequel of another Providence concert, the one from May 23, 1977, released by Straight Arrow just a few weeks ago!
(Source: NME / FECC)