Elton John With Ray Cooper - Live From Moscow (2LP)

"Live From Moscow" is a remarkable live album capturing the legendary Elton John in collaboration with percussionist Ray Cooper during their historic 1979 tour of the Soviet Union. This album, released in 2019, offers a rare glimpse into a unique moment in music history, as Elton John became one of the first Western artists to perform in the USSR during a time of significant political and cultural tension.

The album was recorded on May 28, 1979, at the Rossiya Hall in Moscow, and it showcases Elton John in a stripped-down, intimate setting. The performance is divided into two parts: the first half features Elton solo at the piano, delivering heartfelt renditions of his classic songs, while the second half sees Ray Cooper joining him on stage, adding dynamic percussion to the mix. This format allows the listener to experience the raw talent and charisma of Elton John, as well as the unique chemistry between him and Cooper.

The setlist is a treasure trove of Elton John's greatest hits, including "Your Song", "Rocket Man", and "Daniel", performed with a simplicity and emotional depth that highlight the strength of his songwriting. The inclusion of deeper cuts like "Skyline Pigeon" and "Better Off Dead" adds a layer of richness to the performance, showcasing the breadth of his catalogue. Ray Cooper's percussion work brings an electrifying energy to the second half of the concert, particularly on tracks like "I Heard It Through the Grapevine", where his dynamic playing complements Elton's piano and vocals perfectly.

What makes this album particularly special is the historical context in which it was recorded. Elton John's tour of the Soviet Union was a groundbreaking event, symbolising a cultural exchange during a time when such interactions were rare. The Moscow concert, in particular, was a moment of connection between the artist and his audience, transcending language and political barriers through the universal language of music. Listening to the album, one can sense the enthusiasm and appreciation of the Soviet audience, who were witnessing a performance unlike anything they had experienced before.

The production of the album is excellent, capturing the warmth and immediacy of the live performance. The sound quality is clear and well-balanced, allowing the listener to feel as though they are in the audience, experiencing the concert firsthand. The decision to release this recording in 2019, four decades after the original performance, was a fitting tribute to Elton John's enduring legacy and a reminder of the power of music to bring people together.

"Live From Moscow" is not just a live album; it is a historical document and a celebration of Elton John's artistry. It offers fans a chance to hear him in a unique setting, stripped of the elaborate production that often accompanies his performances, and to appreciate the pure talent and emotion that have made him one of the most beloved artists of all time. For those who were not fortunate enough to witness the original concert, this album is the next best thing, providing a window into a moment of musical and cultural significance that continues to resonate today.