Traffic: Live at Santa Monica

Traffic's 1970 performance at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, captured in the documentary 'Traffic: Live at Santa Monica,' presents a poignant snapshot of a band in transition, struggling to maintain its unique sound and cohesion. With a later lineup, consisting of Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood, Rebop Kwaku Baah, Roger Hawkins, and David Hood, the show provides an insightful look into the inner workings of the band, despite its flaws. The show itself is a visually stunning recording, thanks to the skillful work of video producer Taylor Hackford. The camerawork is noteworthy, showcasing the band members from a variety of angles and lighting setups, even within the same song. These cinematic elements add a layer of depth to the concert, making it feel more like a live album than a simple recording. However, this performance comes at a critical juncture in Traffic's history. Chronologically, it takes place roughly a year after the release of their album 'Welcome to the Canteen,' but during a time of internal turmoil. Steve Winwood, the band's driving force and one of its core members, had suffered a severe illness the previous year, which would significantly impact his performances and overall demeanor during the show. Additionally, Traffic's line-up was in a state of constant flux, a problem that had plagued the band from its inception. The core membership, consisting of Winwood, Capaldi, and Wood, provided the necessary foundation, but the additions of Kwaku Baah on percussion and Hawkins and Hood on rhythm and bass respectively, brought a new dynamic to the table, yet still did not stabilize the lineup. This fluidity and inconsistency would ultimately contribute to the band's decline and eventual creative exhaustion. Despite these challenges, the performance at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium showcases the band's remaining energy and talent. With a setlist that spans a wide range of their discography, from bluesy rockers to psychedelic jams, Traffic demonstrates their ability to blend styles and adapt their sound to the circumstances. Winwood, in particular, seems determined to showcase his skills, even if it means putting in a concerted effort to overcome his lingering health issues. The band launches into their set with a raucous performance of 'Dear Mr. Fantasy,' a staple of their live shows. Winwood's soulful vocals soar above the rest of the band as he navigates the song's intricate rhythm and guitar work. The track sets the tone for the rest of the performance, which is marked by a sense of urgency and determination from the remaining members. As the show progresses, Traffic delves into some of their lesser-known tracks, including 'Freedom Fighter' and 'Rainmaker,' demonstrating their experimental side and willingness to push the boundaries of rock music. The instrumental interplay between Winwood, Capaldi, and Wood is particularly noteworthy, showcasing a deep understanding and trust between band members that is all too rare in rock performances. In 'Pearly Queen,' a staple of their 'Welcome to the Canteen' album, Traffic showcases their ability to weave together disparate elements to create a cohesive and catchy song. With Winwood's virtuosic guitar work, the band paints a vibrant picture of urban life, with Winwood's emotive vocals capturing the raw emotion and desperation at the heart of the song. Despite the internal strife and creative exhaustion, Traffic's performance at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium remains a testament to their enduring spirit and commitment to their music. As the band navigates their way through a challenging period in their history, 'Traffic: Live at Santa Monica' serves as a vital document, capturing a moment in time that would otherwise be lost to the ages. In conclusion, 'Traffic: Live at Santa Monica' is a poignant reminder of the fragility of rock's most precious commodities – creativity and cohesion. It is a testament to the band's enduring spirit and a snapshot of a moment in time when Traffic was teetering on the brink of collapse, yet still managed to create music that was both raw and beautiful.