Frustrated with Bonamassa Live CDs


Several years ago the wife heard and liked Joe Bonamassa, and then we saw him in concert -- a talented guitar player with a solid band. We are very partial to live recordings and have his (i) Live at the Beacon in NYC and (ii) Live at Royal Albert Hall (the CD not DVD). Both are very good performances, but unfortunately both CDs sound bad in our system. Almost no separation of instruments, overall veiled and muddy, etc. Basically (and disappointingly) they sound like the many crap rock/pop recordings that just do not qualify for high-end listening. To be clear, great quality live CDs (e.g., Allmans, Pink Floyd, various Big Swing Bands) sound awesome in our room. Are these two Bonamassa CDs' just examples of a high-end system highlighting poor recording? Anyone else experience this with these two CDs? Alternatives or recommendations appreciated.
whitecap

Showing 5 responses by jperry

Saki70, if you want a copy, check on discogs. None of the 3 LP sets are available, but there are a number of the 2 LP sets listed for sale, and for far less than the price on Amazon. No relationship with any of the sellers.
Whart, great memory and interesting you should mention the three record set.

A friend of mine has that set, and hearing it at his home was my motivation for buying it. When I went to look for a copy the only one I could find was the two record set.

Discogs indicates the 3 LP release was in 2008, with a 2012 release of the 2 LP set.

I wanted the 3 LP set, but couldn't find a copy when I was looking.
Try "Live from Nowhere in Particular". I have the two LP set. There is also a 2 LP set with the same title. I think it sounds good, but I can't comment on the CD as I only have the vinyl pressing. Nice rendition of Slow Gin on the album.
Saki70, if you want a copy, check on discogs. None of the 3 LP sets are available, but there are a number of the 2 LP sets listed for sale, and for far less than the price on Amazon. No relationship with any of the sellers.
You are welcome. Let me know what you think of the sound after you get the records. Happy listening.