Jimi Hendrix: The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Because Jimi Hendrix is one of the most endlessly and recklessly repackaged musicians in rock 'n' roll history, even slavishly dedicated fans have reason to be suspicious of each new "event." To MCA's credit, its deal with Hendrix's family appears to aim for some standardization in a vast catalog that stems from a relatively tiny body of work. Hendrix only released three studio albums in his truncated lifetime, but literally dozens of official releases have followed his 1970 death. Of these, the four-disc The Jimi Hendrix Experience may be the project fans have been seeking all these years. Since Hendrix's every last note is worshipped, this treasure trove of 56 rare or unreleased tracks is genuine cause for excitement. Like Bob Dylan, Hendrix is a key part of the lexicon of modern pop music, and, like Dylan's Bootleg Series, The Jimi Hendrix Experience calls for a degree of familiarity with the artist's music to realize just what a treat it is, though it also stands on its own thanks to great sound quality. Alternate takes, demos, and studio goofs are interspersed with selections from some of Hendrix's out-of-print post-mortem efforts, including the live Hendrix: In The West and Stages. The set begins perfectly, with a take of "Purple Haze" that moves along like the familiar version until it peters out in a fit of giggles, before immediately introducing live renditions of "Killing Floor" and "Hey Joe" from among the Jimi Hendrix Experience's first performances. Other highlights include some stoned studio banter during "Third Stone From The Sun," alternate studio versions of "Stone Free," and a wicked "Star Spangled Banner" (the latter performed solo, apparently Hendrix's first recording with 16 tracks), a few Band Of Gypsys efforts, and a gorgeous first take of "Electric Ladyland" sans The Experience. This collection is simply jaw-dropping, as even Hendrix's most formative experiments sound almost fully formed and still miles beyond what most other musicians have achieved. The only frustrating thing about The Jimi Hendrix Experience is the knowledge that there must be hours of additional music just like it, but this is a magnificent first step.