King of Rock

The true art and brilliance of Jimi Hendrix is perfectly outlined in "BBC Sessions". It gives fans all the best hits with "purple haze", "manic depression", "hey joe" and "foxey lady", but also we get a better look at the magnificent sense of blues music that Hendrix possesses. The most memorable here are "Hear My Train A' Comin'", and "(I'm your) Hoochie Coochie Man". With all the hits on this album, there are many great tracks that are often overlooked. For example, few buyers of this album take notice to the songs like "Catfish blues" or "killing floor". If you're a Hendrix fan, this belongs in your collection as it does not disappoint.

Precious compilation for the fans

This is not a live album in a usual sense of a single live set put on a record. Rather, this is a compilation of tracks, that Jimi Hendrix Experience recorded live in a studio at different sessions during 1967 exclusively for BBC airplay.



I like listening to Jimi's different versions of songs, that he and his band played live. His live perfomances are a proof that he really lived and breathed through his playing. As for this compilation, it has a specific flavour of a musician taking pleasure from his music, and really enjoying what he's doing. Hendrix's positive energy and a relaxed attitude is easily felt both in the playing, and in short song introductions inserted in several places on CDs. The value of "BBC Sessions" is further increased by including some rare material, like covers of classic blues songs, songs by such famous acts as The Beatles and Cream, and even a jam with Stevie Wonder. The sound quality for the most part is very good, and doesn't detract from enjoying the music. While the performance is at times not flawless, one should value this compilation as a unique document, in addition to the high quality of material here.



I think that a casual listener would better be going for Jimi's studio albums first, because this collection is better appreciated with some background knowledge of Hendrix's legacy. But anyone who considers himself a Hendrix fan is advised not to miss "BBC Sessions".

Raw Jimi

We've all heard his infamous Star Spangled Banner that he played at Woodstock. Well now we can hear that same raw talent. The BBC Sessions takes us inside the recording studio to hear some of Jimi Hendrix's unrefined improv. There are several different takes of "Hey Joe" including one which serves as a reprise; a sequel, if you will. An essential Jimi Henrix album.