Gary Moore: Blues for Jimi

Gary Moore, the renowned British guitarist and singer, embarked on a unique musical journey with his album "Blues for Jimi." Recorded live at the London Hippodrome on October 25, 2007, the performance is a tribute to the legendary Jimi Hendrix, featuring classic tracks from Hendrix's repertoire. This special concert was part of the launch for the "Jimi Hendrix: Live at Monterey" program, which aimed to revive the spirit of Hendrix's iconic performance at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival. The London Hippodrome, a majestic theater in the heart of the British capital, was the perfect setting for this tribute concert. With its ornate architecture and rich history, the venue was a fitting backdrop for Moore's rendition of Hendrix's timeless classics. The audience, comprised of blues enthusiasts and Hendrix fans, was electric with anticipation, sensing an evening of music that would honor the legacy of a musical icon. As the curtains parted, Gary Moore, accompanied by Billy Cox and Mitch Mitchell, stepped onto the stage, ready to pay homage to the maestro Jimi Hendrix. The trio wasted no time in diving into the music, opening with one of Hendrix's most revered tracks, "Fire." Moore's fingers danced across the fretboard of his guitar, masterfully recreating the intricate and innovative riffs and solos that defined Hendrix's style. His voice soared, imbuing the performance with a sense of passion and reverence. The first set featured a selection of Hendrix's best-loved songs, including "Room Full of Mirrors," "Red House," and "Stone Free." Moore demonstrated a remarkable command of Hendrix's music, effortlessly incorporating the guitarist's unique style and sound into his own. His rendition of "Room Full of Mirrors" was particularly notable, with Moore conjuring the song's hypnotic atmosphere through his guitar work and emotive vocals. The interlude between the sets afforded the audience a rare opportunity to delve into the history and significance of Hendrix's music. This brief respite also allowed for a brief appreciation of Moore's own background and musical philosophies. A man born to play the blues, Moore has spent his career traversing genres and eras, but his affinity for Jimi Hendrix's music is unmistakable. The second set continued the celebration of Hendrix, with Moore leading the trio through "Star Spangled Banner," "Hey Joe," and "Purple Haze." Billy Cox and Mitch Mitchell proved themselves to be an integral part of the performance, providing a foundation that allowed Moore to soar. Cox's bass lines were masterfully understated, while Mitchell's drums expertly captured the nuances of Hendrix's music, from the subtle to the explosive. Throughout the performance, Moore demonstrated a profound respect for Hendrix's music, while also showcasing his own unique perspective on the guitarist's work. The result was a set list that breathed new life into Hendrix's classics, elevating them to previously unimagined levels. The evening culminated with a thrilling rendition of "Purple Haze," with Moore and the trio delivering a stunning performance that left the audience in awe. As the final notes of the concert faded away, the audience applauded in appreciation of Moore's tribute to Jimi Hendrix. "Blues for Jimi" was more than just a live album or a tribute concert; it was an immersive experience that allowed fans to reconnect with Hendrix's timeless music through the eyes and talents of Gary Moore.