801 Live

"Phil Manzanera is one of the U.K.'s best-known musicians and record producers, having shot to prominence in the early '70s as the lead guitarist with the seminal art-rock band, Roxy Music. He is widely acknowledged as one of the world's leading guitarists and is in much demand both as a performer and record producer (most recently for David Gilmour's 'On an Island' album).

As a writer, producer and solo artist, Phil Manzanera has worked with many other luminaries of modern music, such as Steve Winwood, John Cale, Godley and Creme, Nico (Velvet Underground) and John Wetton (King Crimson, Asia). He has collaborated on material with many artists, including Brian Eno, Tim Finn, Robert Wyatt and many more. Manzanera also co-wrote Pink Floyd's single "One Slip" from their 1988 'Momentary Lapse of Reason' album.

801 was a musical experiment over a period of six weeks, that resulted in just three gigs - the final one was recorded at Queen Elizabeth Hall in September 1976, and preserved for all time as '801 Live'. This brilliant performance features Manzanera, along with multi-instrumental genius Brian Eno, phenomenal drummer Simon Phillips, Francis Monkman (from Curved Air) on keyboards, Lloyd Watson on slide guitar and the outstanding bassist, Bill MacCormick.

The set is a mixture of Quiet Sun material (check out MacCormick's wicked bass runs on "East of Asteroid"), plus a prime selection of Manzanera / Eno compositions (including the classic "Baby's on Fire", the superb guitar instrumental "Diamond Head" and the epic "Third Uncle"). A pair of gold-plated oldies are thrown in for sheer enjoyment purposes - there's an impressive version of Lennon / McCartney's "Tomorrow Never Knows" and a fun run through The Kinks' "You Really Got Me".

Arguably one of the best live albums ever issued, '801 Live' is a fantastic concert recording. It is perfectly produced, with dynamic playing from all involved - and is thoroughly recommended."
- GEOFF (25th March 2006)