Kevin Ayers

Recorded at various American venues between 1993 and 2000, this presents 66 minutes of Kevin Ayers in concert in the United States, backed by varying casts of musicians, though a couple of 1993 tracks feature him on solo acoustic guitar. (Note also that because of technical difficulties affecting the recording of some backing vocals, additional vocals on three-tracks were recorded in September 2004.) The 15-song disc includes some of Ayers' most popular songs, among them "May I?," "Lady Rachel," "Why Are We Sleeping?," and "Stranger in Blue Suede Shoes," as well as less familiar compositions. Although the performances are okay in a relaxed sort of way, and noted Los Angeles jazzman Vinny Golia's sax and flute add a different spice to some of the tracks, this isn't the best way to acquaint yourself with Ayers. The sound quality's not great (though it's not poor), and there are better versions of the best songs elsewhere. It's one for the faithful followers of Ayers' uniquely bemused muse who might want a souvenir of his live shows from the period. ~ Richie Unterberger, All Music Guide