On The Road

As we wind down the Live albums theme, I'd be slacking if I didn't feature some Traffic in this mix. Traffic for me was an amazing band who through a short few years in the late 60's and early 70's influenced a huge group of musicians. The band itself could have been seen as an early supergroup as it featured the likes of Steve Winwood, Dave Mason, Chris Wood, and Jim Capaldi. All of which went on to play with a number of other gifted musicians throughout the years.

'On The Road' marked the second Live album from the band. Recorded in April '73 in Germany. The original US release was a single LP effort with some of the tracks cut down. At just six tracks long, the album is somewhat of an extended Jam session. While the playing is spot on, the tracks seem to carry on and have a certain Jam Band quality to them. So much so that the opening tracks "Glad/Freedom Rider" clock in at just under 21 minutes, while the albums closer, "Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys" clocks in at just under 18 minutes, it's easier to label this a Jam album. The band would release one more record in '74 before calling it a day. The band did briefly reunite in '94 for a studio album. There were talks of another reunion after the bands induction into the Rock 'N Roll Hall of Fame, but plans were cut short due to the passing of Jim Capaldi. However Steve Winwood continues to tour playing material from his storied career and carrying on the legacy that was Traffic. This is the Double LP rip of the album for those curious. It's the American reissued one that features the tracks in all their glory.

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