In the sprawling landscape of ’90s music, few albums have etched as deep and enduring an impact as Portishead’s Dummy. Released in 1994, this album not only marked a seismic shift in the alternative scene but also laid the foundations for what would later be known as trip-hop, melding haunting melodies with hip-hop rhythms in a way that was both innovative and timeless. This is a review of the 25th Anniversary Edition of Roseland NYC Live, a seminal live recording from Portishead that further cements the band’s legacy in the music world.
For those unfamiliar, Portishead emerged from Bristol, England, in the early ’90s. The core trio—Beth Gibbons, Geoff Barrow, and Adrian Utley—crafted a sound that was unmistakably theirs, a melancholic blend of jazz, hip-hop, electronica, and rock. Dummy, their debut, didn’t just win the prestigious Mercury Prize in 1995 but also influenced a generation of musicians and listeners alike. Critics and fans praised its innovative sound, with tracks like “Sour Times,” “Numb,” “Roads,” and “Glory Box” becoming emblematic of the band’s unique aesthetic.
Fast forward to 1997, and Portishead released Roseland NYC Live, an album that captured their mesmerizing live performance at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City, backed by a full orchestra. This reinterpretation of their music, added layers of depth and emotion that only a live orchestral setting could provide. The 25th Anniversary Edition of this album, pressed on red vinyl, showcases the enduring power and innovation of Portishead’s music.
The reissue expands the original tracklist to 14 songs, including a double-sided poster and a VIP pass replica from the NYC venue, all housed in a gatefold sleeve with polylined inner sleeves.
The orchestral arrangements in Roseland NYC Live do not overshadow the band but rather complement and elevate the music. Tracks like “Over” and “Glory Box” are given new life with the orchestral backing, creating a soundscape that is both grand and intimate. Beth Gibbons’ voice, always a standout, shines even brighter against the backdrop of strings and brass. The band members’ performances—Geoff Barrow, Adrian Utley, plus John Baggott on keyboards, Jim Barr on bass, and Clive Deamer on drums—are all highlighted, ensuring that the essence of Portishead’s sound is not lost but enhanced.
In celebrating the 25th anniversary of Roseland NYC Live, we’re reminded of Portishead’s unique place in music history. They were pioneers, blending genres in ways that were unheard of at the time, and this live album encapsulates that pioneering spirit. It is also a perfect entry point for anyone new to the band.
ORDER THE VINYL VERSION FROM AMAZON
ORDER THE CD VERSION FROM AMAZON
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
