Live Jam CD

Recorded live at various locations in the U.K. between December 1979 and April 1982.

One of the most evocative and oft-reproduced images of the Jam is a shot of the band playing live onstage to an obviously enthusiastic audience. However the power of the photograph lies not in the obvious enthusiasm of the audience, but in the image of bassist Bruce Foxton propelling himself straight up in the stratosphere without the benefit of either trampoline of rocket launcher. Suffice to say those that were lucky enough to see the Jam's literally and figuratively electric stage show on a variety of tours will never forget the band's almost manic energy.

For the rest of us, there is LIVE JAM, the closest thing available to actually being drenched in Paul Weller's sweat. While LIVE JAM concentrates mostly on the Jam's more soulful later years, it does not skimp on earlier favorites such as "Modern World" and "Mr. Clean." However, it is in the later, more nuanced material that LIVE JAM truly shines. Somehow the obvious tension in the band (Foxton and drummer Buckler vs. Weller) led to truly transcendent versions of "Down in the Tube Station At Midnight" and "Town Called Malice." This live album is a lasting testament to a brilliant band.

A decade after the band went their separate ways, these 24 tracks were originally released in November 1993 and capture the band at their peak in concerts recorded between 1979 and 1982. The songs here do not overlap any on their other live collection, "Dig The New Breed", making this a perfect compliment and further exploration of the group's intense live show.

The Jam: Paul Weller (vocals, guitar); Bruce Foxton (vocals, bass); Rick Buckler (drums).

Producers: Peter Wilson, Vic Coppersmith-Heaven.

Rolling Stone (10/20/94, p.146) - 3 Stars - Good - "...Most of the classics are here...and you don't have to be English to love them..."
Melody Maker (11/6/93, p.33) - "...LIVE JAM freezes the angry, raging Jam forever, still reeling from the horror of the realization that this is the modern world and is, undoubtably, one of the greatest live albums ever recorded..."