Description
Across a Crowded Room: Live at Barrymore’s ’85 captures Richard Thompson’s legendary performance at the Canadian venue in support of his third solo effort of the same name. The album presents Thompson and his band in great if not exceptional form.
Introducing Clive Gregson and Christine Collister into the road band was an inspired choice; their harmonies are superb and their rhythm guitar work fills up the sound while leaving plenty of room for Thompson’s typically excellent leads. Bassist Rory McFarlane and drummer Gerry Conway are a rock-solid rhythm section while Thompson is searing throughout, whipping off his typically inventive guitar on six-string showcases like “Shoot Out the Lights,” “Wall of Death” and especially a spectacular, nearly nine minute, concert closing, pre-encore “Tear Stained Letter.”
This is not only a long awaited expanded title to Thompson’s bulging catalog, but an essential addition to any fan’s collection and a reasonable place to start for anyone unfamiliar with his now-legendary talents.
