DAVID CROSBY AND GRAHAM NASH
Live (MCA/Universal)
Reviewed by Bill Holmes

---

Quite a year for Mr. Crosby - new CSN record, several reissued Byrds titles, a couple of test tube kids (that he knows of!) and, finally, the records he made with partner Graham Nash get a new life. It is within these duo projects that we are reminded of the fragile beauty of their harmonies; two unlikely partners from different sides of The Big Pond, yet brothers in many ways.

With (ahem) a crack band featuring Russ Kunkel, Danny Kortchmar and David Lindley on the tour, Crosby and Nash had a tight, rocking band whose power greatly enhanced their material. Culled from several live performances at summer sheds, Live's song selection is split almost evenly between the two - Nash's more commercial "Immigration Man" and "I Used To Be A King" perhaps most recognizable. Crosby's "Page 43" and "Lee Shore" are very strong, however, as is the extended closing number "Deja Vu." Balancing raucous songs with tender efforts in this kind of setting was no cakewalk, but the adoring crowds afforded them that power every night.

Also included on this CD are two new tracks not on the original vinyl release - the previously unreleased "Bittersweet" and "King Of The Mountain," both great treats for fans. Live finds both Crosby and Nash in fine form, both creatively and vocally.

© 2000 - Bill Holmes