A completely cooking little live set from Aretha Franklin – massively expanded here – and a crowning moment not just in her career, but for Atlantic Records soul in
general! Aretha's working here before a very enthusiastic crossover crowd at the Fillmore West in San Francisco – getting tight backing from the combo of King Curtis (Memphis Horns, Billy Preston, and Pretty Purdie in tow!) – and hitting a groove that's often rawer, grittier, and more deep-soul tuned than some of her studio sides from the time! The recording quality is totally great – and goes out of its way to preserve the presence of the audience, and showcase Ac appearance on one track, but the whole show is really Franklin's own – a majestic little live date that features the tunes "Spirit In The Dark", "Respect", "Make It With You", "Don't Play That Song", "Dr Feelgood", and "Love The One You're With". Plus, the CD features full versions of 2 tracks that were originally edited on the album – as well as 13 more bonus tracks on CD2, alternates and unused songs that include "Call Me", "Mixed Up Girl", "Share Your Love With Me", "Don't Play That Song", and "You're All I Need To Get By". Lots of great notes, excellent photos, and a much-improved version of the original album!
(2006 pressing with tons of extra bonus material)