Straight Arrow is pleased to bring you a new double CD dedicated to Elvis' August/ September '74 season. This recording was taken directly from a recently found new source, a 1st generation copy of an original audience-recorded mastertape, never before in circulation! This fascinating, previously unreleased concert was never before available in such excellent sound quality!
The penultimate show in Elvis' August/September '74 season was a memorable occasion, especially for British and European fans in attendance. Certain issues in Elvis' personal life influenced what took place on stage at that Labor Day performance.
The set list included several songs unique to this season: "It's Midnight", "Big Boss Man" and "If You Talk In Your Sleep", the latter with a karate demo midway. His song selection demonstrated his expertise in a great variety of musical genres: the sexy 'torch' styling of "Fever"; the sing-a-long "The Wonder Of You"; the poignancy of "You Gave Me A Mountain"; and the feel-good "If You Love Me Let Me Know" and "Let Me Be There". Most of all, perhaps, Elvis touched first base musically with the stirring "How Great Thou Art".
In between songs, he related stories ranging from the amusing to serious topics - the circumstances surrounding his divorce and the overblown stories in the movie magazines. Along the way, Elvis' emotions ranged from undisguised anger (the drug stories) to tenderness - introducing Priscilla and their six-year old daughter Lisa Marie. Usually a private person, it was the presence of his ex-wife that prompted Elvis to speak about his divorce, while making it clear that he and Priscilla were still close.
The liner notes are written by an English fan, who was there. This new release will be presented in a beautiful 4-panel double digipak that includes rare photos taken in Las Vegas in August/September 1974.
Details Breakdown In Baltimore 40 Years After Vol. 3
The second Straight Arrow release is called “Details Breakdown In Baltimore”. It is a new double CD dedicated to Elvis' May '77 tour. This recording was taken directly from a recently found original audience recorded mastertape, taped by Elvis fan Linda from Washington.
When The King made his last visit to Baltimore 40 years ago, no one knew he would be dead less than three months later. But many suspected that something was wrong. The Elvis Presley who took to the stage at the Civic Center on May 29, 1977, was not the Elvis most of his fans knew. Presley was no longer the sexy, virile, electric presence that revolutionized both the recording industry and live performing in his heyday. Still, his voice and charisma were present.
As usual, Elvis opened the show with “See See Rider,” kicking off a set that included many of the classics, including “That’s All Right”, “Are You Lonesome Tonight,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Hound Dog,” a rare attempt at “The Wonder of You” and “It’s Now or Never.” It was reported that Elvis left the stage for 30 minutes, actually it was barely 20 minutes and after his return, Elvis performed knock-out versions of “Help Me”, “Hurt” and the song of the evening: a fantastic version of “Unchained Melody”.
The liner notes are taken from recent article, published on Aug. 10th, 2017 in the Baltimore Sun. This new release will be presented in a beautiful 4-panel double digipak that includes rare photos taken in Baltimore. Another essential SA release, providing a fresh insight into what must have been a difficult night for Elvis. Despite obvious health issues, Elvis does his best to ‘deliver the goods’ to the fans, and especially the final part of the concert is both moving and heart-warming… He must have felt terrible, but still he pulled out all the stops to be Elvis Presley for his audience. A must, and a unique insight into the man’s will-power and love for his fans.
Details Rockin' And Lovin' In Las Vegas
Finally, the third and last 2017 Straight Arrow release is a single CD with the previously unreleased August 17, 1972 Las Vegas Dinner show. It was taken from a 1st generation copy of an original audience recorded cassette, made back in the 70s by English super-fan and collector Rex Martin. Once again the sound quality is great! Rex taped many shows and usually, his recordings were of very good sound quality. He also filmed portions of shows with 8mm camera. From his memories: “17th August Dinner and Midnight shows - I went in with a couple of UK friends. After also tipping the waiter $30 more, we got seated right down on the front tables next to the stage. I taped the shows from August 17th to the 22nd and even filmed parts of the concerts.”
The August 17th Dinner show was another great performance by Elvis. Elvis performs a solid and very entertaining shows. His vocals are outstanding. The liner notes are taken from recent Rex Martin August 1972 personal notes. This new release will be presented in a beautiful 3-panel digipak that includes rare photos taken in Las Vegas in August/September 1972. If you liked Straight Arrows previous 1972 releases - then brace yourself, because this is another keeper!
(Source: FECC)