Album Information Section
Album Title: The Concert
Artist: Creedence Clearwater Revival
Original Release Date: 1980
Label: Unknown Label
Genres: Rock, Swamp Rock, Southern Rock
Track Listing:
- 1. Born on the Bayou (5:12)
- 2. Green River (3:03)
- 3. Tombstone Shadow (4:05)
- 4. Don’t Look Now (2:25)
- 5. Travelin’ Band (2:07)
- 6. Who’ll Stop the Rain (2:38)
- 7. Bad Moon Rising (2:22)
- 8. Proud Mary (3:29)
- 9. Fortunate Son (2:25)
- 10. Commotion (2:35)
- 11. The Midnight Special (3:47)
- 12. Night Time Is the Right Time (3:24)
- 13. Down on the Corner (2:49)
- 14. Keep On Chooglin’ (9:04)
Recording Information
The album “The Concert” by Creedence Clearwater Revival was recorded at the Oakland Coliseum in Oakland, California. The live performance captured on this album took place in 1970, a period when the band was at the height of its popularity. The album was produced by the band itself, with the engineering duties handled by the capable crew at Fantasy Studios, where many of the band’s earlier studio albums were produced.
Notable recording techniques included the use of live audience interaction, which added an electrifying atmosphere to the tracks. The decision to record a live album stemmed from the band’s desire to showcase their energetic performances and strong connection with their fans. The raw, unpolished sound of the live recording served to highlight the band’s authenticity and spontaneity—a key characteristic of their musical identity.
Band Context
By 1980, Creedence Clearwater Revival had already disbanded, with the split occurring in late 1972. The band, originally formed in 1967, comprised John Fogerty (lead vocals, lead guitar), Tom Fogerty (rhythm guitar, backing vocals), Stu Cook (bass guitar), and Doug Clifford (drums). This lineup was responsible for many of the band’s iconic hits, blending rock, country, and swamp blues influences.
Prior to the release of “The Concert,” the band had achieved incredible commercial success with a string of hit albums and singles, but internal conflicts, particularly surrounding John Fogerty’s creative control and the direction of the band’s music, ultimately led to their breakup. During the time of this recording, the band was still riding the wave of their monumental success, with songs like “Bad Moon Rising” and “Proud Mary” garnering significant radio play and critical acclaim. The live album served as a retrospective celebration of their journey, capturing the energy that made them a formidable force in the music industry.
Track Commentary
The track listing of “The Concert” represents a robust cross-section of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most beloved songs. Opening with “Born on the Bayou,” the album immediately immerses listeners in the band’s signature swamp rock sound, characterized by Fogerty’s growling vocals and driving rhythm. “Green River,” with its catchy melody, further showcases the band’s ability to blend elements of rock and country seamlessly.
Notably, “Proud Mary” stands out as one of the defining tracks of the band’s catalog, and its performance on this album is particularly electrifying. The live version captures the essence of the song’s narrative, amplified by the audience’s response. Similarly, “Fortunate Son,” a protest anthem, retains its poignant message while benefiting from the raw energy of a live performance.
Other tracks, such as “Travelin’ Band” and “Down on the Corner,” reveal the band’s knack for storytelling through music, while “Keep On Chooglin'” offers an extended jam that highlights the musicianship and improvisational skills of the band members. The critical reception of “The Concert” was generally positive, with many praising its authenticity and the way it encapsulated the spirit of Creedence Clearwater Revival during their prime. The album remains a significant part of their legacy, providing fans and newcomers alike a glimpse into the powerful live performances that defined the band.
