Back to 1976 we go to catch Mr. Beck at probably something approaching his peak. Moving away from the Yardbirds and his early blues influences to a more fusion sound, this album sees Beck honing techniques and sounds that he would become sun ominous with later on in his career. It’s worth noting that Jeff does not get a writing credit on any of these tracks, which I find strange as I am sure he must have had a hand in the arrangements.
This is one of my favourite Beck albums. Quality from beginning to end. This is the master sound half speed mastered version which sounds great. Kicking the whole thing off with Led Boots, which I think is a homage to Zeppelin with a great groove and some fantastic playing from Jeff (and is still in his live set today) as well as Goodbye Pork Pie Hat. Closing Side 1 is the excellent Heading For Backstage Pass, which is my personal fave on the album. Side 2 carries on where Side 1 left off featuring the awesome Play With Me.
If anyone wants an introduction to Beck’s solo work then I would point them in this direction as you can’t go wrong with Wired. Jeff is up there with the greats for his style and technique.
8/10 from the Grooveman.
