Whitesnake offers a captivating retrospective with their latest release, “Washington State Wipeout,” a bootleg collection featuring live performances from Spokane and Glasgow circa 1984. This two-LP set, part of The David Coverdale Series, showcases the band during a pivotal moment in their early career, aligning with the release of their album “Slide It In.”
During my recent treasure hunt for vinyl, I stumbled upon these newly issued bootlegs from 2023, a delightful find tucked away in a European record store. “Washington State Wipeout” features stunning clear vinyl housed in an elegant gatefold jacket adorned with imagery of the band. Although I cracked open the previously sealed packaging, I couldn’t resist experiencing the music first-hand.
The first disc includes the Spokane concert from July 24, 1984, a notable show at the Spokane Coliseum where Whitesnake shared the spotlight with Dio. The lineup features the iconic David Coverdale alongside John Sykes, Richard Bailey, Neil Murray, and Cozy Powell—though it would have been delightful to hear Jon Lord’s keyboard prowess. With only a limited setlist due to the supporting role, this FM radio broadcast offers a concise yet thrilling glimpse into the early sound of Whitesnake.
The Spokane show kicks off with “The Gambler,” featuring four tracks from the recently released “Slide It In.” David Coverdale’s vocals resonate powerfully in the mix, and while the instrumental backing is slightly subdued, it still retains its thrilling energy. The performance exudes enthusiasm, with Coverdale frequently engaging the audience with his signature “Here’s a song for ya!”
Tracks such as “Guilty of Love” accelerate the energy, showcasing the high-octane essence of the band, while “Love Ain’t No Stranger” illustrates a sultry side to their artistry, with Sykes delivering a blistering guitar solo. The selection doesn’t shy away from classics either, revisiting “Walking In The Shadow of the Blues,” though this rendition feels a tad rushed, missing the original’s bluesy flair.
As we flip to side B, tracks like “Crying in the Rain” add depth, integrating atmospheric guitar work and hinting at future transformations as Sykes’ influence is felt. “Slow And Easy” truly stands out as a highlight, showcasing the band’s swagger, encapsulating the very spirit of rock and roll.
The second LP transitions to the Glasgow performance recorded on March 1, 1984, where Whitesnake was the headliner, with Great White providing opening support. This concert opens with the energetic “Love Ain’t No Stranger,” delighting the audience with its raw sound. The differences in audio capture are noticeable, with Jon Lord’s keyboard contributions adding an exuberant layer that elevates the overall experience.
In Glasgow, Whitesnake performs a version of “Here I Go Again,” that retains much of the original’s charm but hints at its eventual evolution. Other standout moments arise in “Crying in the Rain,” featuring intricate guitar work that flirts with ethereal tones, making it an unforgettable musical journey.
The concluding tracks, including the beloved “Ain’t No Love In The Heart Of The City,” reveal the audience’s adoration as they sing along, highlighting the bond between the band and their fans. The show wraps up with “Fool For Your Loving,” creating an energetic finale, albeit the sound lacks the clarity found in earlier tracks.
Overall, “Washington State Wipeout” presents an engaging peek into Whitesnake’s early days, delivering a well-produced set brimming with energy and nostalgia. With an impressive sound quality typical of FM broadcasts and memorable performances, this collection is a must-have for fans eager to relive or discover the iconic band’s foundation. The reviewer awards this bootleg an impressive four stars out of five, praising the exquisite clear vinyl and elaborate packaging that modernizes this classic exploration of Whitesnake’s history.
