'Live' at the Apollo Review: The Hardest-Working Man in Show Business
9/10 — James Brown - 'Live' at the Apollo (1963)
Pros
- Explosive performance
- Great crowd interaction
- Tight band
Cons
- Thin 1960s sound
Recorded in 1962 at Harlem’s Apollo Theater, ‘Live’ at the Apollo was financed by Brown himself after his label doubted a live album would sell. It became a surprise chart hit.
What works
The energy is astonishing, with Brown driving the Famous Flames and a screaming audience through a medley of his hits, including ‘Please, Please, Please’ and ‘Lost Someone’. The call-and-response with the crowd is thrilling, and the band is razor sharp.
Where it falters
The audio is thin by modern standards, and it’s more of a performance document than a studio album.
Verdict
A raw, joyous snapshot of a legendary live act.
