Best Live is Gato Barbierri. I lost the album, but it's something like Live at Montreaux, recorded in the 70s. The audience waited until 2:00 am to hear his band/orchestra from Argentina. Most of the band did not make the flight, so half the musicians on the stage are from various groups. You can hear Gato's percussionist and his pianist running around the stage directing the musicians when to change tempo, etc. It is very visceral and extremely exciting (to my ears and soul). Gato is a man possessed. He sounds like he is bending the sax and forcing his will upon it. He, sort of like Django (I say sort of because Django was always in full control), is in a trance, subhuman and just plays without restraint. Total wild-freedom, reaching for estatic release. I would love to get a recording of this if anyone has it.
Finally, I hate his later 80s crap. Nothing but puppy "salsa". Maybe he did blow his soul out that night in France?
Finally, I hate his later 80s crap. Nothing but puppy "salsa". Maybe he did blow his soul out that night in France?