Collectors Music Reviews

Crossroads (JR001/002)

Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London, England – March 25th, 1998

Disc 1 (45:18):  Wanton Song, Bring It On Home, Heartbreaker, Ramble On (incl. What Is And What Should Never Be), Walking Into Clarksdale, No Quarter, When I Was A Child, Going To California, Tangerine, Gallows Pole

Disc 2 (63:21):  Burning Up, Babe I’m Gonna Leave You (incl. Stairway To Heaven), How Many More Times (incl. In The Light), Most High, Whole Lotta Love, House Of Love, Crossroads, Thank You, Rock ‘n’ Roll

Jimmy Page & Robert Plant began their Walking Into Clarksdale period with shows in Turkey and Eastern Europe in early March.  The first appearnce in London was a gig on Wednesday, March 25th at the 2,000 capacity Shepherd’s Bush Empire.  It quickly attained legendary status which has only solidified over the past fourteen years.  

Crossroads on the JR label utilize a great sounding audience recording.  It is missing the opening Egyptian tape and, more unforgivably, “When I Was A Child” played after “No Quarter.”  It is listed on the artwork, but is missing from the disc.  London was the first live performance of the piece and is a highlight.  It’s omission means this version of the show should be avoided at all costs.  There are many other much better versions around.  Don’t bother with this.  

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