Live In London 74 by Tempest: A Raw Blast of Hard Rock and Prog Genius
Alright, let’s talk about Live In London 74 by Tempest. This album isn’t just another live rock record—it’s a time machine that drags you back to the sweaty, chaotic energy of a London gig in the mid-70s. Released way later in 1991 (yeah, it took its sweet time), this Italian-born gem is an absolute treasure trove for fans of hard rock and prog rock. With Jon Hiseman pounding the drums like his life depends on it, Mark Clarke pulling triple duty on bass, keys, AND vocals, and Allan Holdsworth shredding guitar solos that feel like they came from another dimension, this thing hits hard.
Let me break it down for you. First up—“Strangeher (Including Drums Solo).” Oh man, where do I even start? The track kicks off with this brooding, almost menacing vibe, like something big’s about to happen. And then… BOOM. Jon Hiseman goes full beast mode on his drum solo. It’s not just technical wizardry; it’s raw emotion poured into every beat. You can practically hear the sweat dripping off his sticks. By the end of it, you’re left breathless, wondering how someone could make a drum kit sound so alive. That moment sticks with you because it feels less like a performance and more like a personal exorcism.
Then there’s “Grey And Black,” which slaps you right in the feels. Written by Allan Holdsworth, this one’s got layers—moody, intricate guitar work paired with Paul Williams’ haunting lead vocals. There’s this part midway through where everything drops out except for Holdsworth’s guitar, and it’s like he’s whispering secrets directly into your soul. It’s heavy but also kinda beautiful, if that makes sense. Every note feels intentional, like they knew they were creating something special.
What really gets me about this album is how tight yet loose it feels. Like, these guys are clearly masters of their craft, but there’s also this wild unpredictability to it. Maybe it’s because the band was firing on all cylinders back then—or maybe it’s because Ollie Halsall decided to throw curveballs at everyone—but whatever it is, it works.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to this album now feels bittersweet. Jon Hiseman passed away in 2018, and Allan Holdsworth followed him in 2017. Knowing that makes tracks like “Strangeher” hit harder, like hearing echoes of legends who aren’t around anymore. But hey, that’s music for you—it keeps living long after we’re gone.
So yeah, Live In London 74 isn’t perfect. Some parts feel messy, some transitions are rough, but honestly? That’s what makes it real. If you’re into hard rock or prog, this one deserves a spot in your collection. Just don’t blame me when you find yourself rewinding “Strangeher” a dozen times in a row.
