Review of Jimi Plays Monterey

Jimi Hendrix's incendiary set at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival has become the stuff of legend and rightfully so because there's no denying that when Jimi was in the zone he was one exceptionally dynamic and magnetic performer: Jimi not only positively shreds with his guitar, but also wields said guitar like some kind of sexy weapon and even plays it with his teeth. Among the songs Hendrix performs with astonishing animalistic aplomb and abandon are the fantastic "Foxy Lady," a rousing rendition of "Rock Me Baby," and an especially raucous cover of "Wild Thing." Moreover, Jimi also offers a fine bluesy take on Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" and shows a more sweetly mellow side with "The Wind Cries Mary." Best of all, Hendrix concludes the stirring shebang by setting fire to his guitar. Drummer Mitch Mitchell and bass player Noel Redding are also in top form as they match Jimi every step of the way, with Mitchell in particular proving to be a total beast on drums. Simply spectacular stuff.