I agree. I love Traffic. I would even put them in my top five to ten greatest (rock) bands of all time. A lot of people won't understand, but for those in the know who really know music, this is some of the most progressive, sophisticated, tasty, and timeless rock and roll ever created.
I remember buying the first Traffic album when it came out. I was doing my regular trek thru the Moorestown Mall stores with record departments, entering thru the Woolworth's record section, going thru the racks before heading down to Gimbels to check out their record racks. Then head back to an indie record shop, We Three Records. Before doing Sears & Wanamakers record departments, I stopped in the Singer Sewing Center which had a record section among the sewing machines. There on the bottom slot I saw Traffic's Heaven Is In Your Mind, not knowing anything about it. Turned it over and saw Steve Winwood's name. Knowing he was from the Spencer Davis Group I bought the album unheard, took it over to a friend's house because his father had a great stereo, and put it on. We were blown away by how great, and different the album was. It remains in my current rotation over 50 years later!
For me, the instrumental 'Traffic Magic' is the perfect expression of the vibe of the band. Not just that particular line-up, but the whole history of the group. The 'live' version from 'On The Road' is excellent.
I was at that show @ Winterland, amazing show. Thinking back, it was an amazing moment in time. Thanks to Bill Graham, We were able to see some of the legends up close and personal and Traffic always stood out.
I grew up with this music. Traffic records were always great uplifting and mellowing music when the hard rock and psychedelic sounds had saturated the ears of my roommates and I. They're definitely in the top tier of all those classic rock bands. 1965-75 is an incomparable decade for music. I've kept all my Traffic records which I was buying when they were issued, even when I had to get their CDs.
I got into Traffic in the fall of 2002 after buying the CD of Last Exit for $7 during The Wiz's liquidation sales en route to the chain going under. I wound up making a few trips to Tower Records in Manhattan to buy the rest of Traffic's catalog as well as the first few Rhino CD remasters of the Chicago catalog. Shoot Out at the Fantasy Factory is my favorite Traffic album. I think it's just about perfect. The hard rock of the title cut, the more jazz like dream that is Roll Right Stones, the acoustic perfection of Evening Blue, another jazz workout with Tragic Magic and then the closer Sometimes I Feel So Uninspired, which starts out down but then builds up into this inspirational anthem about overcoming what''s bringing you down, which I could relate to in 2002. And Winwood's guitar in that final track was just great. It would be a desert island disc for me.
Great overview of the Traffic albums, such a great band. I wanted to point out a solo album by Winwood called, About Time from 2002. I think you will really enjoy this album, it’s a three piece band and it’s a very groove driven record. I think it’s only on cd format.
I always thought that Steve Winwood's first (self-titled) studio album released in 1977 was seriously underrated. It's pretty funky and features Jim Capaldi and Rebop Kwaku Baah.
I have my top 10 greatest albums of the 70s which include things such as Jeff Beck blow by blow. blue oyster cult agent of fortune,almost all Steely Dan,Aerosmith get your wings,Starship Spitfire just to name a few, but right in my top five is traffic, John barleycorn, which I believe came out in 1970 exceptionally fine music throughout that entire record …Great band.
My favorite Traffic recording is side 2 of "Last Exit," namely, "Feelin' Good" and "Blind Man." You say the critics didn't like the rambling, but to me, Steve Winwood's soulful singing and powerful organ playing, coupled with Chris Wood's interpolations on sax and flute, and Jim Capaldi's pounding on the drums works some real magic. I got "Last Exit" as a gift when it first came out. I have played it over and over, and I must say that, even though my ears aren't what they once were, my stereo is much nicer than when I was young, so the clarity and impact of "Feelin'g Good" and "Blind Man" impress me more than ever. I just now played the album again, BTW. As I mentioned in another comment, I saw Traffic at Winterland in SF twice. Both shows were fantastic. But the bigger band with ReBop was a different sort of sound than the minimalism of side 2 of "Last Exit."
Walking In The Wind has currently been my favorite Traffic tune for quite a while now. Gritty lyrics and Steve's rompings on the Moog make this a stunning groove. Oh and that killer bass. Yeah.
Great video, thanks for showing Traffic the love! Mazzy, you are so right about those UK pink Islands. I’d had that version of “John Barleycorn” on my want list for eons. This past December we went to see my daughter in the UK. We went to Harrogate for the Christmas markets, and walking around about 3:30 I see a sign “Record Fair today”, with the dealers starting to pack up. Needless to say there was one there for 40 pounds and he graciously came down to 30.
I 100% agree that the 2nd album, the eponymous Traffic is their best. It has that perfect fusion of what each of the four members brings to the band. Don't be Sad; gorgeous! That opening Fender Stratocaster riff is so soulful and beautifully sung by Mason. Like you said, Perfect Record.
I got into traffic around 1980 and immediately loved them. I picked up all their albums pretty quickly. It's hard to pick my favorite era as they are all good. Alone together is a great album by Mason. It's hard to find anything bad by these guys.
I adore all of Traffic's works. Low Spark is the highlight of Winwood's work. John Barleycorn is another. Haunting and beautiful jazz rock folk that puts you in a state of musical euphoria. Can't believe you still have mint copies of the original albums and copies of old reviews. Your are a master collector. I am on my 3rd and 4th copies of their LP's as most were lost, trashed or left with former girlfriends. At age 68 I still enjoy all of their albums, and the solo efforts. Its great to hear another enthusiast's praise their work. Thank you. Craig from Benicia
Finally 👍🏽, for me Fab Four, Traffic, Byrds and then the rest …great job in covering their spectrum with solo works, one of your top videos/review ever …thank you Sir !👏👏👏
Super informative video Mazzy. I'd never heard of Traffic until my more sophisticated college roommate turned me on to them some four+ decades ago. And now I'm learning that their catalog is far more extensive than I realized. Thanks for the education on a band I love. 👍👍 On a related note, how on earth could anybody have thought that "Heaven Is In Your Mind" would be a bigger hit than "Dear Mr. Fantasy"? That intriguing rhythm in Mr. Fantasy just draws the listener in. One of the best songs ever i.m.o.
Mazzy love your feature on the great group Traffic love Steve Winwood’s voice he a killer organ player and is no slouch on guitar . Mazzy damn now I have to seek out those UK Pink Labels I’m droolin’ 🍻.
ive been looking on Discogs and i can find the first pressing in the UK but a M- will cost $100 USD+ with postage to 48 states. Not sure how good the Island 1971 reissue on Island is....less $$
Thanks for doing this video - Traffic / Winwood are seriously underrated, particularly the 1970s output. Greatest Hits Live from 2017 is a terrific Winwood retrospective.
Saw Dave a few yrs ago , huge outdoor concert he opened for Rod Stewart , felt like no one knew who he was until he played a radio friendly hit from late in his career , I forget what it was now , he ev3n commented to the crowd , “ there is one you know I guess “
Thank you Norman for this outstanding video traffic is really incredible band I was just a kid when they were popular but I was always aware of them I didn't really get into them until the 90s and I have since discovered all the great Spencer Davis stuff as well Steve winwood is a musical genius and he is still going strong
Been listening to Traffic for years. (Definitely be on the outlook for pink Island label). Appreciate all their albums- my mood dictates which one I listen to at any given time. Thanks for talking about them
Great presentation, Mazzy. I'm a big fan of all versions of Traffic too, as well as all solo work by Steve, Jim, and Dave (although I only really like "Alone Together" from him.) My favorite song on "When the Eagle Flies" is "Dream Gerrard."
Fun fact, Jimmy Miller played drums on a few Stones songs, You Can't Always Get What You Want, and Tumbling Dice. Coloured Rain was covered by an obscure band called The Hassles, which included a young Billy Joel.
Great video and have loved Traffic for years. Further info : They wrote and played songs (including the title song) of the film soundtrack ‘Here we go ‘round the mulberry bush’ plus Dave Mason co-produced the awesome debut album by UK band Family ‘Music in a dolls house’
Thanks for doing this review. Saw Traffic in around 1975 at the Colston Hall, Bristol being supported by a group called "Sour Grapes" - in fact Richard & Linda Thompson plus Danny Thompson on bass - the 1st but not the last time I've seen the wonderful R Thompson. Secondly, on Jim Capaldi's version of 'Oh how we danced' I think Paul Kossoff is on guitar - & sounding pretty good as usual.
One of my fave bands - genuinely progressive in the sense that they were risk takers, experimenters, improvisers who never stayed still and followed their own paths regardless of trends - true original Island artists in that sense.. The 1977 Steve Winwood solo album really should have been mentioned as it is pretty much a Traffic record with the addition of Willie Weeks and Andy Newmark on bass and drums on a few tunes. Also noticing that Arc of a Diver was very influential on Mark Hollis from Talk Talk and that Traffic laid the groundwork for that experimental phase of the band. Great video!
I recently purchased the live record “welcome to the canteen” and man I am not disappointed. It’s got some great songs on it and the band is in fine form.
The first Traffic songs that crossed my way were "Paper Sun" / "Hole In My Shoe" both uplifting, enjoyable songs - not on their EU studio albums at the time but on single only. One of my favourite Traffic songs is "Rollright Stones" (from the "Low Spark..." album). I knew the record since it came out, but only realized 'bout 20 ys. ago, that the "Rollright Stones" were a real place, a stone circle in the northern Cotswolds (Heart of England). So I went there and was surprised to find such an interesting remote historic monument in the middle of nowhere. Most people are heading for Stonehenge, maybe Avebury as well, but only few got an idea where/what the "R.S." are. All in all: Traffic in my opinion is one of the most complex band in Rock-Pop history. Mazzy yis totally right. Thanks.
I worked backwards from Steve Winwood’s Arc of a Diver to his Traffic and Spencer Davis Band years as a young teen. Fantastic music. John Barleycorn Must Die is a high point in their catalog.
A terrific take on Steve, Traffic and the solo work of the band members. After Little Feat, Traffic are one of my favourite bands. I got into them when a friend let me listen to this album his older sister got, and I was blown away by Dream Gerard and its jazzy meticulous meandering. A fan ever since. Cheers Mazzy!
Great to see this Mazzy...Traffic was a fantastic band, with the self-titled (second), 'John Barleycorn', and 'Low Spark' being extra-high points for a band with almost nothing but high points...
Nice Mazzy ! Traffic doesn't get much showing in the VC. I have most of all the albums you showed. Winwood 15yrs old in the Spencer Davis Group "genius ". Also you see all this color marbleized vinyl now, Mason was doing it 54 yrs ago. Lol ! ✌️
Thanks for covering Traffic. I love all those early albums. Traffic was an acquired taste for sure. I dont have any of the Island copies, but love the American versions. That Dave Mason solo album is about as good a rock album as there is. Not a klunker in the bunch, but my marbled copy is way too noisy. Im a little too long in the tooth to be out searching for new copies, but if I stumbled across one, I'd grab it. Thanks again.
Thanx 4 THEGREAT expose on 1of my favorite iconic British bands,,, that I agree should have been much more ‘heralded for the greatmusicality, thanmanyof their ‘more popular ‘contemporaries
Always great to see another Mazzy vid!. Traffic is near the top of that eternal "if I could have seen a band" list for me. I know you just highlighted some of the solo material, but Winwood's first and "Short Cut Draw Blood", by Jim Capaldi are two people should also give a listen to. cheers
1994 Far from Home and many tour dates supporting it is worth a tip of the hat. Thanks Norman its a gift to hear your take on aspects of the good stuff.
The photos that were in the gatefold of the UA version of 'Traffic' ended up gracing my teenage bedroom wall......they went missing when I got drafted in 72.....dang it!
Who doesn't love Traffic? Under-rated band. If you haven't yet, go see Steve Winwood while he's still touring. Dave Mason is, too. I'm with you Mazzy, those first 2 albums are the best and most cohesive, especially that 2nd album.
Just saw Dave Mason a couple months ago. I was very impressed. He put on an excellent show and his band was tight. Dave looks old but he sounded great.
The second self titled Traffic album was my introduction to Traffic and will always remain my favorite. The version of Feeling Alright from this is LP tops all the other hyped up versions by others artists. I love Mason's more relaxed interpretation (and the way it should be done anyway).
Great overview. I think my first marveled record was that Dave Mason album as well. Nazz Nazz was my first translucent (red) album. Those variants were mind blowing then.
Mazzy, your videos inspire me to go back and listen to these records. For the Traffic (self titled) album, I was surprised to realize that this is really almost entirely a Dave Mason album. All the great songs are his with the exception of 40,000 Headman. Thanks Mazzy.
Great post, Mazzy. The cottage where the band got their heads together in the country is still there, on the outskirts of a quiet village. So too is the pub where they probably got out of their heads.
I'm sure I won't be the only viewer to ask about the reunion album "Far From Home" Capaldi/Winwood did in the '90's, which got excluded here. Certainly NOT displacing "John Barleycorn" to my ears, BUT a worthy comeback, and I'm grateful they chose to put it out especially since Jim Capaldi died not long after this came out. (I know they DID tour, but concerts are beyond my tolerance now).
Hey Mazzy - great take on one of my favorite bands. I bought the eponymous album when I learned that they had a version of "Feelin' Alright" on it (had purchased the Joe Cocker record in '69 and thought it was the best cut on that record). I still have my US OG of Last Exit.
"Heaven Is In Your Mind" MUST be enjoyed via headphones and under the influence of acid. There is continuous background music between every cut on the album - no dead air. It is very subtle (when not stoned). My fave TRAFFIC release.
Are you familiar with the soundtrack to “Here we go round the mulberry bush”? Music by Traffic & Spencer Davis group. Traffic does 3 songs, the title song, Utterly Simple & Am I what I was or am I what I am. I have a copy. After watching this, I’m gonna dig it out and have a listen. The soundtrack was released in 1968, so I gotta believe it is a quartet, with Dave Mason.
Bravo! You are absolutely right. Traffic are criminally under-appreciated. I was first introduced to them by a friend via the Mr Fantasy album (the UK stereo). A stunning album and one of the very best examples of UK psychedelia. I live a mere 8 miles away from their birthplace in Birmingham, England, and you have encouraged me to dig out a selection of albums. Fab stuff! I'm also browsing the Evening Blue Chris Wood book, record and CD set. A magnificent coffee table book packed with photographs and a wonderful text, curated by Neil Storey and Steph Wood.
It is an excellent book. Sometimes things are put together with love and this is one of those. There is a photo in the book of a public house located a mile or so from where I live and a contemporary gig review from the 1960s. I wrote to the publishers to let them know that the venue still exists and looks exactly like the photo in the book, even today. They took the time to respond and asked if I would send a current day photo, which I did. If you get the chance to get hold of a copy it is well worth it. I think that there were only about 1000 of them printed, but occasionally copies do turn up for sale.
one of your best reviews - maybe easy when the music is so good? not a folk-rock band, but rock-folk. not jazz-rock... rock-jazz (w/ solid R&B throughout). songs too long? screw that... not long enough. I could always listen to Low Spark over again (& did). great to see the review slip out of the cover - we should all investigate our ancient scrolls. Barleycorn>Low spark>Shoot Out are among the best 3 album sequences in rock history (& it's a short short-list). {the Swampers were pure Muscle Shoals (distinct from nearby Memphis). met David Hood a couple times a few years back. very nice, thoughtful, humble guy (& a player!). insight to "the path not taken" given the chance to make tons more $$$ on the road... w/ attendant risks of a short career-life.} Traffic albums will be listened-to & their music played live centuries from now (if we make it that far). cheers,
Traffic has remained on the periphery of my music listening but I need to look deeper to the albums with Dave Mason. Steve Winwood, however, is always an automatic purchase when there is a new album since his self-titled solo album. I would had shown off Arc Of A Diver over Back In The High Life.
I agree. I love Traffic. I would even put them in my top five to ten greatest (rock) bands of all time. A lot of people won't understand, but for those in the know who really know music, this is some of the most progressive, sophisticated, tasty, and timeless rock and roll ever created.
" Walk in the Wind" wonderfull!! I love this track! My regrets.
Great record ✌🏼
Dave Mason's Alone Together is one of the desert island disks for me.
Agree, incredible album, great players
I remember buying the first Traffic album when it came out. I was doing my regular trek thru the Moorestown Mall stores with record departments, entering thru the Woolworth's record section, going thru the racks before heading down to Gimbels to check out their record racks. Then head back to an indie record shop, We Three Records. Before doing Sears & Wanamakers record departments, I stopped in the Singer Sewing Center which had a record section among the sewing machines. There on the bottom slot I saw Traffic's Heaven Is In Your Mind, not knowing anything about it. Turned it over and saw Steve Winwood's name. Knowing he was from the Spencer Davis Group I bought the album unheard, took it over to a friend's house because his father had a great stereo, and put it on. We were blown away by how great, and different the album was. It remains in my current rotation over 50 years later!
Have to say Shoot Out At the Fantasy Factory is my favorite but you can't go wrong with any of them.
They have many styles ✌🏼
For me, the instrumental 'Traffic Magic' is the perfect expression of the vibe of the band. Not just that particular line-up, but the whole history of the group. The 'live' version from 'On The Road' is excellent.
love anything instrumental@@mrshawn4192
Great show of one of the greatest Rock Bands in the history of Rock .☮️
And so underrated.....
I was at that show @ Winterland, amazing show. Thinking back, it was an amazing moment in time. Thanks to Bill Graham, We were able to see some of the legends up close and personal and Traffic always stood out.
I grew up with this music. Traffic records were always great uplifting and mellowing music when the hard rock and psychedelic sounds had saturated the ears of my roommates and I. They're definitely in the top tier of all those classic rock bands. 1965-75 is an incomparable decade for music. I've kept all my Traffic records which I was buying when they were issued, even when I had to get their CDs.
Low Spark and Alone Together are two albums I’ve never gotten tired of. Ok, let’s add Barleycorn.
Love Barleycorn
Oh yeah👍, throw that one in there 😅 what the heck 😄
Traffic liked to have musical conversations. Stevie always like to jam it out. A lot of bands from that era did. I have always loved that.
I got into Traffic in the fall of 2002 after buying the CD of Last Exit for $7 during The Wiz's liquidation sales en route to the chain going under. I wound up making a few trips to Tower Records in Manhattan to buy the rest of Traffic's catalog as well as the first few Rhino CD remasters of the Chicago catalog.
Shoot Out at the Fantasy Factory is my favorite Traffic album. I think it's just about perfect. The hard rock of the title cut, the more jazz like dream that is Roll Right Stones, the acoustic perfection of Evening Blue, another jazz workout with Tragic Magic and then the closer Sometimes I Feel So Uninspired, which starts out down but then builds up into this inspirational anthem about overcoming what''s bringing you down, which I could relate to in 2002. And Winwood's guitar in that final track was just great. It would be a desert island disc for me.
Low Spark, such a great title track.
Two overlooked songs from Low Spark are Hidden Treasure and Many a Mile to Freedom still play in my head while I'm working
Let's not forget Rainmaker; great groove on the outro jam.
Great overview of the Traffic albums, such a great band. I wanted to point out a solo album by Winwood called, About Time from 2002. I think you will really enjoy this album, it’s a three piece band and it’s a very groove driven record. I think it’s only on cd format.
I always thought that Steve Winwood's first (self-titled) studio album released in 1977 was seriously underrated. It's pretty funky and features Jim Capaldi and Rebop Kwaku Baah.
Definately agree.
That first (self-titled) album is my favourite of his solo releases, though 'Arc of a Diver' wasn't too shabby either...
Agree. I wore out the track Vacant Chair back in 77!
I have my top 10 greatest albums of the 70s which include things such as Jeff Beck blow by blow. blue oyster cult agent of fortune,almost all Steely Dan,Aerosmith get your wings,Starship Spitfire just to name a few, but right in my top five is traffic, John barleycorn, which I believe came out in 1970 exceptionally fine music throughout that entire record …Great band.
I love Traffic!
In my top 5 bands all time . My favs are traffic 2 John barley corn , low spark
John Barleycorn takes me all the way back to when I lived in the Haight-Ashbury Circa 1970-71
My favorite Traffic recording is side 2 of "Last Exit," namely, "Feelin' Good" and "Blind Man." You say the critics didn't like the rambling, but to me, Steve Winwood's soulful singing and powerful organ playing, coupled with Chris Wood's interpolations on sax and flute, and Jim Capaldi's pounding on the drums works some real magic.
I got "Last Exit" as a gift when it first came out. I have played it over and over, and I must say that, even though my ears aren't what they once were, my stereo is much nicer than when I was young, so the clarity and impact of "Feelin'g Good" and "Blind Man" impress me more than ever. I just now played the album again, BTW.
As I mentioned in another comment, I saw Traffic at Winterland in SF twice. Both shows were fantastic. But the bigger band with ReBop was a different sort of sound than the minimalism of side 2 of "Last Exit."
Walking In The Wind has currently been my favorite Traffic tune for quite a while now. Gritty lyrics and Steve's rompings on the Moog make this a stunning groove. Oh and that killer bass. Yeah.
Great video, thanks for showing Traffic the love! Mazzy, you are so right about those UK pink Islands. I’d had that version of “John Barleycorn” on my want list for eons.
This past December we went to see my daughter in the UK. We went to Harrogate for the Christmas markets, and walking around about 3:30 I see a sign “Record Fair today”, with the dealers starting to pack up. Needless to say there was one there for 40 pounds and he graciously came down to 30.
Very cool. Love it ✌🏼
I 100% agree that the 2nd album, the eponymous Traffic is their best. It has that perfect fusion of what each of the four members brings to the band. Don't be Sad; gorgeous! That opening Fender Stratocaster riff is so soulful and beautifully sung by Mason. Like you said, Perfect Record.
Exactly ✌🏼
I never tire of the song Low Spark. It takes you on a journey, and the lyrics are so wry and insightful.
Traffic is easily one of the most important bands of the great rock era.
Agree
I found "Oh How we danced" in a pile of records at our cottage. Loved it, and don't know why it wasn't bigger.
I got into traffic around 1980 and immediately loved them. I picked up all their albums pretty quickly. It's hard to pick my favorite era as they are all good. Alone together is a great album by Mason. It's hard to find anything bad by these guys.
I adore all of Traffic's works. Low Spark is the highlight of Winwood's work. John Barleycorn is another. Haunting and beautiful jazz rock folk that puts you in a state of musical euphoria. Can't believe you still have mint copies of the original albums and copies of old reviews. Your are a master collector. I am on my 3rd and 4th copies of their LP's as most were lost, trashed or left with former girlfriends. At age 68 I still enjoy all of their albums, and the solo efforts. Its great to hear another enthusiast's praise their work. Thank you. Craig from Benicia
Finally 👍🏽, for me Fab Four, Traffic, Byrds and then the rest …great job in covering their spectrum with solo works, one of your top videos/review ever …thank you Sir !👏👏👏
Super informative video Mazzy. I'd never heard of Traffic until my more sophisticated college roommate turned me on to them some four+ decades ago. And now I'm learning that their catalog is far more extensive than I realized. Thanks for the education on a band I love. 👍👍
On a related note, how on earth could anybody have thought that "Heaven Is In Your Mind" would be a bigger hit than "Dear Mr. Fantasy"? That intriguing rhythm in Mr. Fantasy just draws the listener in. One of the best songs ever i.m.o.
We saw Spencer Davis around '67 in London.
Mazzy love your feature on the great group Traffic love Steve Winwood’s voice he a killer organ player and is no slouch on guitar . Mazzy damn now I have to seek out those UK Pink Labels I’m droolin’ 🍻.
ive been looking on Discogs and i can find the first pressing in the UK but a M- will cost $100 USD+ with postage to 48 states. Not sure how good the Island 1971 reissue on Island is....less $$
@@robinfowler9477 Damn that’s crazy thanks man for looking i probably have to settle with the island reissues
Tell me if this is crazy, but Steve Winwood's voice to my ears sounds a LOT like Peter Gabriel.
@@samcarson8161 jeez i dont know about that. Gabriel sounds a little "scratchy" to me...
Incredible live organ improv by Winwood on Feelin' Good.
Thanks for doing this video - Traffic / Winwood are seriously underrated, particularly the 1970s output.
Greatest Hits Live from 2017 is a terrific Winwood retrospective.
Good one! Big Traffic fan here, thanks for shining a light on them today!
I have Steve Winwood solo records from the 80s. Thanks for the pink label Isand tip. 😊
Saw Dave a few yrs ago , huge outdoor concert he opened for Rod Stewart , felt like no one knew who he was until he played a radio friendly hit from late in his career , I forget what it was now , he ev3n commented to the crowd , “ there is one you know I guess “
Thank you Norman for this outstanding video traffic is really incredible band I was just a kid when they were popular but I was always aware of them I didn't really get into them until the 90s and I have since discovered all the great Spencer Davis stuff as well Steve winwood is a musical genius and he is still going strong
I can't believe I don't have Heaven on Your Mind. Wheat Combine for the Canadian release. Amusing. Thanks.
I love Santana’s version of Dealer. Great video Mazzy.
Been listening to Traffic for years. (Definitely be on the outlook for pink Island label). Appreciate all their albums- my mood dictates which one I listen to at any given time. Thanks for talking about them
If course. They need a spotlight again.
Great presentation, Mazzy. I'm a big fan of all versions of Traffic too, as well as all solo work by Steve, Jim, and Dave (although I only really like "Alone Together" from him.) My favorite song on "When the Eagle Flies" is "Dream Gerrard."
What a fantastic video have a wonderful day norman
Yes, it's a great band. Like all their albums.
Great appropriate reviews of Traffic albums, my favorites too. My group does 40k HEADMAN AND CYRYING TO be Heard. Thanks NORMAN❤
Traffic are fantastic. I hadn’t listened to them until recently, when Digital Gramaphone was bigging them up! Great band profile Mazzy.
“Traffic” is also my favorite Traffic album and one of my top 10 albums.
John Barleycorn was released in the UK in a gatefold sleeve on a pink label originally.
Fun fact, Jimmy Miller played drums on a few Stones songs, You Can't Always Get What You Want, and Tumbling Dice.
Coloured Rain was covered by an obscure band called The Hassles, which included a young Billy Joel.
Didn’t know that ✌🏼
@@mazzysmusic Would be great if Winwood and Mason could do some sort of project together, they are the only original Traffic members left.
Coloured Rain was also covered by Eric Burdon & The Animals.
This was great. Hard to define the group. Really enjoy the little I’ve heard so far.
Great video and have loved Traffic for years.
Further info :
They wrote and played songs (including the title song) of the film soundtrack ‘Here we go ‘round the mulberry bush’ plus Dave Mason co-produced the awesome debut album by UK band Family ‘Music in a dolls house’
Thanks for doing this review. Saw Traffic in around 1975 at the Colston Hall, Bristol being supported by a group called "Sour Grapes" - in fact Richard & Linda Thompson plus Danny Thompson on bass - the 1st but not the last time I've seen the wonderful R Thompson. Secondly, on Jim Capaldi's version of 'Oh how we danced' I think Paul Kossoff is on guitar - & sounding pretty good as usual.
Traffic, 13 years old, my first rock show. Formative.
Saw them at Winterland in 1974. We caught the early show and got back in line for the nightcap.
'John Barleycorn...", just BRILLIANT ! "The Low Spark...", more BRILLIANCE !! Dang, I HAVE to go listen to them, right now !!
One of my fave bands - genuinely progressive in the sense that they were risk takers, experimenters, improvisers who never stayed still and followed their own paths regardless of trends - true original Island artists in that sense.. The 1977 Steve Winwood solo album really should have been mentioned as it is pretty much a Traffic record with the addition of Willie Weeks and Andy Newmark on bass and drums on a few tunes. Also noticing that Arc of a Diver was very influential on Mark Hollis from Talk Talk and that Traffic laid the groundwork for that experimental phase of the band. Great video!
Exactly. Progressive.
I recently purchased the live record “welcome to the canteen” and man I am not disappointed. It’s got some great songs on it and the band is in fine form.
Great præsentation of an important English band. My favorite is Welcome to the canteen. A beatiful lp, with Gordon at his best.
The first Traffic songs that crossed my way were "Paper Sun" / "Hole In My Shoe" both uplifting, enjoyable songs - not on their EU studio albums at the time but on single only. One of my favourite Traffic songs is "Rollright Stones" (from the "Low Spark..." album). I knew the record since it came out, but only realized 'bout 20 ys. ago, that the "Rollright Stones" were a real place, a stone circle in the northern Cotswolds (Heart of England). So I went there and was surprised to find such an interesting remote historic monument in the middle of nowhere. Most people are heading for Stonehenge, maybe Avebury as well, but only few got an idea where/what the "R.S." are. All in all: Traffic in my opinion is one of the most complex band in Rock-Pop history. Mazzy yis totally right. Thanks.
"Rollright...." from "Shoot Out..."
@@Benji306 Totally right, a turner....it's from "Shoot out... " of course.
Excellent episode, Maz. Traffic is one of the great underappreciated bands. I "only" saw them on the Low Spark tour.
You’re really on top of your game with this one Mazzy!
Great band...Traffic - John Barleycorn - Low Spark - When the Eagle are all perfect records with different peculiarities.
this makes Traffic huge.
Traffic is one of my favorites!! Also, I love Joe Cocker's version of Feelin' Alright best!
I worked backwards from Steve Winwood’s Arc of a Diver to his Traffic and Spencer Davis Band years as a young teen. Fantastic music. John Barleycorn Must Die is a high point in their catalog.
No doubt
Solid songwriters, Winwood was a magnficent singer, they were were inept improvisors.
2nd lp is in my top 15 of all time. Love debut too, top 50. Got various pink labels myself too
A terrific take on Steve, Traffic and the solo work of the band members. After Little Feat, Traffic are one of my favourite bands. I got into them when a friend let me listen to this album his older sister got, and I was blown away by Dream Gerard and its jazzy meticulous meandering. A fan ever since. Cheers Mazzy!
Great band.
Great to see this Mazzy...Traffic was a fantastic band, with the self-titled (second), 'John Barleycorn', and 'Low Spark' being extra-high points for a band with almost nothing but high points...
Nice Mazzy ! Traffic doesn't get much showing in the VC. I have most of all the albums you showed. Winwood 15yrs old in the Spencer Davis Group "genius ". Also you see all this color marbleized vinyl now, Mason was doing it 54 yrs ago. Lol ! ✌️
Traffic needs a spotlight. ✌🏼
Thanks for covering Traffic. I love all those early albums. Traffic was an acquired taste for sure. I dont have any of the Island copies, but love the American versions. That Dave Mason solo album is about as good a rock album as there is. Not a klunker in the bunch, but my marbled copy is way too noisy. Im a little too long in the tooth to be out searching for new copies, but if I stumbled across one, I'd grab it. Thanks again.
Thanx 4 THEGREAT expose on 1of my favorite iconic British bands,,, that I agree should have been much more ‘heralded for the greatmusicality, thanmanyof their ‘more popular ‘contemporaries
Always great to see another Mazzy vid!. Traffic is near the top of that eternal "if I could have seen a band" list for me. I know you just highlighted some of the solo material, but Winwood's first and "Short Cut Draw Blood", by Jim Capaldi are two people should also give a listen to. cheers
1994 Far from Home and many tour dates supporting it is worth a tip of the hat. Thanks Norman its a gift to hear your take on aspects of the good stuff.
Hi. My favorite is also the self-titled one. It’s a perfect record for sure. Great band.
The John Barleycorn-album is my favourite, but the two opening tracks on "Low spark"-album are just wonderful! .
The photos that were in the gatefold of the UA version of 'Traffic' ended up gracing my teenage bedroom wall......they went missing when I got drafted in 72.....dang it!
Nice ✌🏼
Who doesn't love Traffic? Under-rated band. If you haven't yet, go see Steve Winwood while he's still touring. Dave Mason is, too. I'm with you Mazzy, those first 2 albums are the best and most cohesive, especially that 2nd album.
Many people seem to have forgotten them.
Just saw Dave Mason a couple months ago. I was very impressed. He put on an excellent show and his band was tight. Dave looks old but he sounded great.
Local band to me! Wonderful stuff Mazzy
2nd album looks like money to me i like it so much--saw them early twice--just great band
Great background on Traffic. You might like their album Far From Home, it came out in the UK in1994. Its dedicated to Chris Wood.
The second self titled Traffic album was my introduction to Traffic and will always remain my favorite. The version of Feeling Alright from this is LP tops all the other hyped up versions by others artists. I love Mason's more relaxed interpretation (and the way it should be done anyway).
Side one is classic.
Great overview. I think my first marveled record was that Dave Mason album as well. Nazz Nazz was my first translucent (red) album. Those variants were mind blowing then.
Stephen stills did also a very good version of Mr Fantasy
Yes he did ✌🏼
Mazzy, your videos inspire me to go back and listen to these records. For the Traffic (self titled) album, I was surprised to realize that this is really almost entirely a Dave Mason album. All the great songs are his with the exception of 40,000 Headman.
Thanks Mazzy.
I think half the songs are Dave’s
Great post, Mazzy. The cottage where the band got their heads together in the country is still there, on the outskirts of a quiet village. So too is the pub where they probably got out of their heads.
Wow, what a great video! Feeling' Alright with Dave Mason & The Quarantines during lockdown was a welcome distraction during those times.
I picked up one of those (Mr Fantasy, mono press) in my favourite record shop recently.
Thank you..well done...much appreciated..learned a bit here
I'm sure I won't be the only viewer to ask about the reunion album "Far From Home" Capaldi/Winwood did in the '90's, which got excluded here. Certainly NOT displacing "John Barleycorn" to my ears, BUT a worthy comeback, and I'm grateful they chose to put it out especially since Jim Capaldi died not long after this came out. (I know they DID tour, but concerts are beyond my tolerance now).
Hey Mazzy - great take on one of my favorite bands. I bought the eponymous album when I learned that they had a version of "Feelin' Alright" on it (had purchased the Joe Cocker record in '69 and thought it was the best cut on that record). I still have my US OG of Last Exit.
A band I've loved since my teens. You did a great job 👍 and I would expect nothing less. Excellent musicians made wonderful albums. Greg
"Heaven Is In Your Mind" MUST be enjoyed via headphones and under the influence of acid. There is continuous background music between every cut on the album - no dead air. It is very subtle (when not stoned). My fave TRAFFIC release.
Will try that 😵💫🫒🌸🍸
Are you familiar with the soundtrack to “Here we go round the mulberry bush”? Music by Traffic & Spencer Davis group. Traffic does 3 songs, the title song, Utterly Simple & Am I what I was or am I what I am. I have a copy. After watching this, I’m gonna dig it out and have a listen. The soundtrack was released in 1968, so I gotta believe it is a quartet, with Dave Mason.
Yeah great soundtrack in UA. I have it. Forgot to show it here ✌🏼
Bravo! You are absolutely right. Traffic are criminally under-appreciated. I was first introduced to them by a friend via the Mr Fantasy album (the UK stereo). A stunning album and one of the very best examples of UK psychedelia. I live a mere 8 miles away from their birthplace in Birmingham, England, and you have encouraged me to dig out a selection of albums. Fab stuff!
I'm also browsing the Evening Blue Chris Wood book, record and CD set. A magnificent coffee table book packed with photographs and a wonderful text, curated by Neil Storey and Steph Wood.
Ive heard the Chris Wood set is cool ✌🏼
It is an excellent book. Sometimes things are put together with love and this is one of those. There is a photo in the book of a public house located a mile or so from where I live and a contemporary gig review from the 1960s. I wrote to the publishers to let them know that the venue still exists and looks exactly like the photo in the book, even today. They took the time to respond and asked if I would send a current day photo, which I did. If you get the chance to get hold of a copy it is well worth it. I think that there were only about 1000 of them printed, but occasionally copies do turn up for sale.
one of your best reviews - maybe easy when the music is so good? not a folk-rock band, but rock-folk. not jazz-rock... rock-jazz (w/ solid R&B throughout). songs too long? screw that... not long enough. I could always listen to Low Spark over again (& did). great to see the review slip out of the cover - we should all investigate our ancient scrolls. Barleycorn>Low spark>Shoot Out are among the best 3 album sequences in rock history (& it's a short short-list).
{the Swampers were pure Muscle Shoals (distinct from nearby Memphis). met David Hood a couple times a few years back. very nice, thoughtful, humble guy (& a player!). insight to "the path not taken" given the chance to make tons more $$$ on the road... w/ attendant risks of a short career-life.} Traffic albums will be listened-to & their music played live centuries from now (if we make it that far). cheers,
In the UK they did a farewell tour every year - they weren't great towards the end
I just purchased that Mason/Cass record.
Traffic has remained on the periphery of my music listening but I need to look deeper to the albums with Dave Mason. Steve Winwood, however, is always an automatic purchase when there is a new album since his self-titled solo album. I would had shown off Arc Of A Diver over Back In The High Life.
I saw the 73 tour . Winwood was I’ll . But still great concert . He was suffering from peritonitis