1975-04-26 Lou Reed

Felt Forum

This show was part of Lou Reed's 1975 world tour, the year after Reed's classic Rock n' Roll Animal live album came out.  Glam rock / glitter rock was all the rage in the early 70s - Jagger, Bowie, Lou Reed, Mott the Hoople and Slade were all part of that, and what I got into early on.

In later years I saw Lou Reed appear as a surprise guest at a show at the Bottom Line, and in a more recent year I found myself alone with him in the lobby of the Film Forum one evening while he was waiting for his wife Laurie Anderson to see a foreign film.  I said hello, not realizing how limited his remaining days would be. 

He passed away on a day that I attended a Phish show in Hartford.  Phish asked for a moment of silence for him, Trey referred to him as one of the greatest artists ever, and they opened the show with Reed's “Rock n' Roll” in tribute.  REM is another great live band that I’ve seen cover songs by Reed and Velvet Underground.

These color photos were all taken on Kodak Ektachrome slide film, with the ISO “pushed” several stops in accordance with the film instructions, for the indoor stage lights. The Felt Forum was an especially dark stage and real test for a film camera without flash.

1976-08-31 Johnny & Edgar Winter

Felt Forum, New York, NY

Johnny and Edgar had earned themselves a very high status among big fans of rock music.  One of my earliest guitar-playing friends just immersed himself completely in Johnny Winter when he wasn't listening to older blues men.  At least for me Edgar's early 70s albums, and his incredible keyboard playing, placed him right at the cutting edge of 70s rock. 

This show was so loud it was uncomfortable even in the lobby.

I don't remember it but I suppose Edgar played Frankenstein that night; I saw him play it more recently, and of course the Phish versions....

1982-09-25 Peter Tosh / Jimmy Cliff

Felt Forum

I had great seats for this show, sitting down front to the left in the first section. The band started the introduction to "Pick Myself Up," the opening number, and Tosh strutted out in a funky outfit with a walking stick, instantly mesmerizing the crowd. Tosh had enormous stage presence - not just merely because of his tall, lanky body. He was always so cool - too cool for his shirt - and his sunglasses.

Jimmy Cliff performed tunes from the "Special" album at this show. All of these reggae albums and shows in this era have come to be known as classics, and this show featured two of the greatest reggae artists of all time. That Jimmy Cliff album is one of my favorite reggae records, all of the songs are worth many great listens, as are the alternate and dub versions.

1982-10-28 Jerry Garcia Band

Felt Forum