Sex Pistols live in 1976 box set revealed

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Universal Music Catalogue have announced a 4CD/4LP set by Sex PistolsLive ’76. The collection comprises four live recordings – all officially sanctioned by the Sex Pistols and professionally mastered at Abbey Rd Studios and released in full for the first time.

From the press release:

Disc one features the legendary Lesser Free Trade Hall, Manchester concert, which took place on 4th June, 1976, arguably one of the most important music concerts ever. Set up by Pete Shelley and Howard Devoto (who were inspired to form Buzzcocks after travelling to Welwyn Garden City to watch the Pistols), the show was witnessed by people including future Joy Division/New Order members, Morrissey, Mark E. Smith (The Fall) and Tony Wilson, the concert changed the course of music history, with the Pistols inspiring a generation of musical mavericks.

Closer to the band’s London roots, the second disc comprises the ‘Midnight Special’ concert, which was recorded on 29th August, 1976 at Screen on the Green, Islington – more widely known for its cult cinema screenings. This famous gig saw the Pistols supported by The Clash and Buzzcocks. Legend has it that journalists and record company staff attempting to gain entry were reported to have been barred entry.

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Disc three is the live show that took place at Chelmsford Maximum Security Prison on 17th September 1976. Of the four recordings that make up this collection, this was the only one ‘officially’ recorded on 4 track ¼ inch tape, by the band’s live soundman Dave Goodman. Reportedly the idea of the band’s manager Malcolm McLaren, who claimed it was part of his strategy to have the band play more interesting, unusual non rock ‘n’ roll places, no doubt in an attempt to create controversy. Johnny Rotten rose to the occasion by being his provocative best, as can be heard on the between songs banter.

The collection is completed with a concert that originally made its way around as a fans bootleg, recorded on 25th September  1976: 76 Club, Burton on Trent. and is officially released in full for the first time.

The set features related photographs and an original facsimile Sex Pistols Glitterbest press kit from the era. Release is set for 19th August.

 

About Douglas Baptie (208 Articles)
Editor at Words & Guitars. Lives in Carlisle, far away from 'that London'.
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