Hawkwind - Greasy Truckers Party (2LP)

Ah, "Greasy Truckers Party" by Hawkwind! This album is a bit of a gem for those who dig deep into the world of live recordings and the early '70s rock scene. Released in 1972, this album captures Hawkwind during an era of raw energy and experimental soundscapes, a time when live albums were not just about capturing a performance but also about capturing a moment in musical history.

The "Greasy Truckers Party" isn't just any live album; it's part of a live various artists album recorded at a benefit event for the Greasy Truckers, an organization that supported free festivals and provided support for convoy drivers. The event itself was held at the Roundhouse in London, a venue known for its pivotal role in the progressive and psychedelic music scenes. Hawkwind’s contribution to this album is particularly notable for its 40-minute epic version of "You Shouldn't Do That," a track that immerses you in a sonic journey characteristic of Hawkwind's space rock style.

What makes this performance standout is not just the length, but how it encapsulates the band's ability to blend elements of space rock with hard rock and improvisation. The track is a sprawling soundscape that features hypnotic rhythms, eerie electronics, and the distinctive vocals and saxophone of Nik Turner, alongside the innovative guitar work of Dave Brock. It’s a piece that, like much of Hawkwind’s music from this era, feels both of its time and timeless, capturing the experimental spirit of early '70s rock.

The recording quality of "Greasy Truckers Party" is raw and unpolished, which might not suit everyone’s taste but certainly adds to the authenticity and atmosphere of the live experience. This rawness is a double-edged sword; it might detract those who prefer studio polish but will definitely appeal to those who value the gritty, unfiltered essence of live performances.

While "Greasy Truckers Party" might not have garnered the mainstream accolades or widespread recognition of some of Hawkwind’s other albums, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans and collectors. It showcases the band in a formative stage of their career, experimenting with sound and live performance dynamics in ways that would influence their later work.

The album also serves as a historical snapshot of the vibrant and often chaotic energy of the early '70s UK rock scene, a period marked by musical innovation and a do-it-yourself ethos. The Greasy Truckers event itself was part of a larger movement that sought to break away from commercialism in music, promoting instead a community-oriented approach to music production and distribution.

For fans of Hawkwind, "Greasy Truckers Party" is more than just an album; it’s a piece of the band’s legacy. It offers a glimpse into the raw, unadulterated sound of a band that was as influential in the genre of space rock as they were defiant of the musical norms of their time. For those new to Hawkwind, this album might require a bit of patience and an open mind, but it’s well worth the dive into the deep end of one of rock’s more unique subgenres.

In conclusion, while "Greasy Truckers Party" may not be the definitive Hawkwind album, it is an essential chapter in the story of a band that dared to explore the outer reaches of musical space. It’s a live experience bottled into a recording that continues to resonate with those who cherish the spirit of '70s rock.