Traffic

TRAFFIC Live Concert at Paris Theatre London | Full Concert | John Barleycorn Must Die

London

• In April 1970, Traffic performed a live concert at the Paris Theatre in London, shortly after the release of their album "John Barleycorn Must Die," w... Read Full Description >

  In April 1970, Traffic performed a live concert at the Paris Theatre in London, shortly after the release of their album "John Barleycorn Must Die," which came out in May of the same year. This performance marked a pivotal moment in the band's evolution, as they had recently regrouped after a brief hiatus and the departure of guitarist Dave Mason in 1968, who was a key contributor to their early sound. The live recording showcased the band's blend of rock, jazz, and blues, featuring musicians Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood, and Steve Winwood executing their signature style. Interestingly, this period saw the band embracing a more collaborative approach, with Winwood taking on a leading role in the direction of their sound. The concert was also notable for being broadcast by the BBC, enhancing its significance in Traffic's legacy and bringing their innovative music to a wider audience.

Traffic - Live Performance at Crosley Field, Cincinnati, Ohio (1970)

Crosley Field
Cincinnati, OH, United States

• In June 1970, when Traffic performed at Crosley Field in Cincinnati, they had recently released their third studio album, "John Barleycorn Must Die," ... Read Full Description >

  In June 1970, when Traffic performed at Crosley Field in Cincinnati, they had recently released their third studio album, "John Barleycorn Must Die," which came out in July of that year. This album marked a significant progression for the band, showcasing their blend of rock, jazz, and folk influences, and is often celebrated as a high point in their career. The live recording captures a pivotal moment as Traffic was transitioning from their earlier psychedelic roots to a more mature sound, characterized by the incorporation of jazz elements and a greater emphasis on the collaborative songwriting of Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood. The Midsummer Rock festival, where this recording was made, not only featured Traffic but also a lineup of notable artists, highlighting the band's growing prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s rock scene.

Traffic - Full Concert: Complete Fillmore West Performance

Fillmore West
San Francisco, CA, USA

• In July 1970, Traffic was deep into their transformation as a band, as showcased by their live recording at the Fillmore West. Prior to this concert, ... Read Full Description >

  In July 1970, Traffic was deep into their transformation as a band, as showcased by their live recording at the Fillmore West. Prior to this concert, they released "John Barleycorn Must Die," an album that marked a significant evolution in their sound, integrating more jazz and rock elements. This album, released in 1970, was pivotal in cementing their status in the progressive rock genre. The Fillmore West concert highlights the band's improvisational skills and features tracks from their recent work, including "Medicated Goo" and "Who Knows What Tomorrow May Bring." Traffic's lineup during this period included the notable presence of Steve Winwood, whose vocals and multi-instrumental abilities were crucial. This performance also reflects their peak period of creativity and collaboration, signifying a moment where their live performances became just as influential as their studio recordings, capturing the raw energy and experimentation that defined their sound.