There is special sentimental value for me with Let it Fly, the new live record from The Choir: Although the different recordings come from several different concerts, the opening and closing remarks were made at a St. Louis show by my friend and mentor, Brian Quincy Newcomb (whom some will remember as the founding editor of Harvest Rock Syndicate, may he rest in peace). Fortunately, there is much about this memento from the Free Flying Soul tour for every fan of The Choir. With no retouching, no overdubbing, no attempts to bring the microphone any closer to the crowd noise, Let it Fly has all of the sweet charm and distorted fury of a bootleg recording. The picks reflect a good cross-section of their work--old and new songs, loud songs and romantic songs--all with the band's signature ambient noise filled out with help from guitarist Bill Campbell and percussionist Wayne Everett. Through the years, The Choir has provided me with countless hours of entertainment, of thoughtful spiritual dialogue, and of heartfelt moments of humanity. Let it Fly is a wonderful keepsake to remember all those times they were able bring it to me in person, as well.
Other coverage for this album
The Lighthouse November 1997Reviewed by James StewartIt has become a rare occurrence for The Choir to be seen live. Other commitments and financial concerns mean that it is not viable for them to tour regularly. This release can only go some way towards filling that gap, but it makes a valiant attempt. Featuring Tim Chandler on bass, Wayne Everett (late of the Prayer Chain) on percussion, Bill Campbell (of The Throes) on second guitar, and Dan…The Phantom Tollbooth 1997Reviewed by Steven S. BaldwinLive albums are frequently disappointments. They seldom capture the energy of the actual events, and they're usually dubiously produced--failing to reach the polish of studio efforts. My expectations for Let it Fly were particularly low since The Choir is not much of a live band in my estimation. Sure, their albums are highly recommendable, brilliantly crafted works of musical art, and their…Similar sounding releases
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1998Poor Old LuChrono (1993-1998)More from The Choir
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2005O How the Mighty Have Fallen
1990Circle Slide
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