Artist: Gram Parsons & the Fallen Angels
Title: The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16//73 (Amoeba Music)
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Tell me more: Fate is on full display across the two-LP live recording titled The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16/73. The second release of the Gram Parsons Archive series, the vinyl release features the first new Gram Parsons solo material issued in 40 years (Parsons died at age of 26 at the Joshua Tree Inn in nearby Joshua Tree, CA on Sept. 19, 1973). The record chronicles a complete performance by Parsons and the Fallen Angels performed on March 16, 1973. In addition to Parsons (lead vocals and rhythm guitar) and the then-unknown Emmylou Harris (vocals), the troupe includes guitarist Jock Barkley, pedal steel guitarist Neil Flanz, drummer N.D. Smart and bassist Kyle Tullis. In a press release distributed in connection with the Record Store Day Black Friday release, Flanz (who sadly died in 2021) stated that he felt this was the ensemble's best performance of the entire tour so he requested a soundboard recording of the show; he held onto the cassette for 40 years before it was acquired by Amoeba Music. The tape was then lost for about 10 years, and recently rediscovered and restored to be used for The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16/73.
Although there are some limitations to the recording captured on a cassette more than 50 years ago, the power of the performance from an outstanding group at the height of their powers shines through across the recording. The version of "We'll Sweep Out The Ashes" is an early standout, showcasing the bewitching sound created when Parson and Harris sing together. A speedy version of the Flying Burrito Brothers' "My Uncle" displays the band's virtuoso chops and Parson's signature alternative country approach.
Other early highlights on the title include a beautiful take on Parsons' Byrds-era Sweetheart of the Rodeo track "Drug Store Truck Drivin' Man," and wistful "Streets of Baltimore," the latter featuring incredible harmonies and pedal steel magic courtesy of Flanz.
An energetic take on Merle Haggard's Bakersfield country classic "California Cotton Fields," rousing blues-country track "Cry One More Time," pedal steel- and lead guitar-adorned "The New Soft Shoe" and lovely acoustic original "Sin City" are all spectacular. My favorite selection is a haunting version of the Everly Brothers 1960 gem "Love Hurts," where Harris and Parsons sing in tandem with a palpable and poignant power that brings tears.
The only live club show of Parsons ever released, The Last Roundup: Live from the Bijou Cafe in Philadelphia, 3/16/73 is truly an incredible chance to revisit the groundbreaking artist's legacy. Information: amoeba.com.
Robert Kinsler
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