Bruce Cockburn

Recorded at My Father's Place in Roslyn, NY, on Cockburn's 1980 U.S. tour in support of Dancing in the Dragon's Jaws, this is a good sampling of a typical performance from that tour. The band is very tight, yet adventurous, highlighted by Hugh Marsh's electric violin. At this stage in his career, Cockburn was beginning to go for a less folk and more rock sound, while still retaining the jazz touches that had become more prominent in his work since the mid-'70s. The entire show that these cuts are taken from was broadcast on WLIR-FM in 1980, but, unfortunately, the extended jams and untitled instrumental performed are not represented. Even so, this live EP is an enjoyable listen, made stronger by the caliber of the musicianship. A particular highpoint is "Creation Dream," wherein Marsh innovatively plucks the strings of his violin, at times echoing Cockburn's voice and guitar. Though this album will appeal mainly to the serious Cockburn fan, the hit "Wondering Where the Lions Are" ensures interest to the casual listener. As point of reference, "Interlude" is not a previously unreleased Cockburn song, but merely some between-song talk from the stage. ~ Rob Caldwell, All Music Guide