The Allman Brothers Band - At Fillmore East
For a double album, seven tracks don't seem that many. But when you know it's Gregg and Duane Allman and their band playing live, it makes much more sense. Their live shows were full of extended versions, riffing between guitarists, and plenty of fun jamming across the band. A highlight is Duane Allman in inspired guitar playing form on the 23-minute long, “Whipping Post”.
Recorded at Fillmore East, the venue was known for its two-show concerts, often with a triple bill, several nights a week. The Allman Brothers Band were listed behind Edgar Winters and Elvin Bishop Group for the recorded sessions in March 1971, but their live performances quickly had them bumped up the bill to close. This album captures the essence of those shows.
The album came out in July 1971. The band’s live reputation was renowned, but they were still to reach their real potential on album sales. At Fillmore East climbed the charts and went platinum, helping to establish the band further commercially. It's a classic live album of its time.
Peter Frampton - Frampton Comes Alive
One of the top live albums of all time, not just the 1970s. This record gave Peter Frampton’s solo career a much-needed boost. It became a high-selling, chart-topping blockbuster. The true feel of a live concert combined with great songs brilliantly performed. It was a must-have in most record collections in 1976.
It was originally intended to be a single album, but A&M Records wanted more. There was plenty recorded from the live shows so making it a double disc wasn’t a huge challenge. Top-selling single hits “Baby I Love Your Way”, “Show Me The Way” and “Do You Feel Like I Do” helped make the album a smash hit and kept Frampton’s songs all over the airways at that time.