What makes Live! Blueswailing July '64 by The Yardbirds notable?

This album is significant for showcasing The Yardbirds' foundational role in the British blues movement and their influence on future rock artists. It presents an authentic live experience that highlights their evolving sound just before they embraced more experimental styles, contributing to their legacy as one of the key bands of the 1960s. Released in 2003, Live! Blueswailing July '64 is a posthumous album that features recordings from The Yardbirds' early days, capturing their raw energy as they were transitioning from a blues cover band to innovators of rock. By this time, the band had already seen significant lineup changes and was on the brink of their psychedelic phase, making these live cuts a historical snapshot of their formative years.

Who is Live! Blueswailing July '64 for?

Live! Blueswailing July '64 works well if you're into raw energy in live setting, short bursts of electrifying performances and immediate connection through spontaneity.

How many songs are on Live! Blueswailing July '64?

Live! Blueswailing July '64 has 7 tracks, running approximately 31 minutes.

Live! Blueswailing July '64

The Yardbirds · 2003

31 min · 7 tracks · psychedelic rock

Raw, electrifying performances capture the spirit of the British blues scene with relentless energy and improvisational flair.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Smokestack Lightning — This track exemplifies The Yardbirds’ ability to channel electric blues with a frenetic energy that showcases Eric Clapton's guitar prowess and vocal intensity.
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Good Morning Little Schoolgirl — The band's rendition of this classic blues track captures a playful yet edgy vibe, demonstrating their skillful blend of rhythm and blues with emerging rock elements.
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Too Much Monkey Business — This cover emphasizes a spirited performance style and lyrical wit, reflecting the band's dynamic stage presence and connection with their audience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album effectively captures the raw energy of The Yardbirds' live performances, showcasing their early blues influences.

What we noticed

The album features seven tracks, all performed live, with extended instrumental sections that showcase improvisation.
Each track maintains a high energy level, with guitar solos frequently taking center stage and driving the performances.
The recording captures audience interaction, adding to the raw and authentic feel of the live experience.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

raw energy in live setting
short bursts of electrifying performances
immediate connection through spontaneity
night out with friends vibe

Maybe skip if you

prefer polished studio recordings
dislike extended instrumental sections

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2003, Live! Blueswailing July '64 is a posthumous album that features recordings from The Yardbirds' early days, capturing their raw energy as they were transitioning from a blues cover band to innovators of rock. By this time, the band had already seen significant lineup changes and was on the brink of their psychedelic phase, making these live cuts a historical snapshot of their formative years.
Stylistic neighbors: Cream· The Jeff Beck Group· The Who