Whitesnake – Washington State Wipeout (Spokane and Glasgow Broadcasts 1984) – A Bootleg Review
Get ready to dive into the world of vintage rock as we explore a recent find from my undying quest for vinyl treasures. I stumbled upon two Whitesnake bootlegs during a recent visit to a record store, both of which were released in 2023 out of Europe. While the recordings themselves may have some history, they deliver a vibrant snapshot of 1984’s rock scene.
The first gem in my haul is titled Washington State Wipeout, packaged as a stunning double LP set. Housed in a chic gatefold sleeve, the set features a striking photograph of the band. The clear vinyl records are not just pleasing to the eye; they promise a sonic experience worth savoring, as evidenced soon after I tore open the packaging to give it a spin.
LP 1 features a concert recorded on July 24, 1984, in Spokane, Washington. This show followed the release of their critically acclaimed album Slide It In, which came out months earlier on January 30, 1984. The Spokane Coliseum housed a stellar lineup comprising David Coverdale, John Sykes, Richard Bailey, Neil Murray, and Cozy Powell, though I can’t help but feel the absence of Jon Lord. The band opened for Dio that night, resulting in a shorter setlist, but the entirety is captured in this vinyl.
The audio, sourced from an FM radio broadcast, is exceptional. Coverdale’s vocals resonate with clarity, and though the instruments blend into the background slightly, they still manage to shine through. Fans will appreciate the nostalgia as the set kicks off with “The Gambler” from Slide It In, followed by a selection of tracks familiar to those who thrived on the rock sound of the 80s. Notably, four out of the seven songs performed hail from the new album, which was the mainstay for U.S. audiences back then.
From the energetic “Guilty of Love” to the sultry “Love Ain’t No Stranger,” the performance is charged with high-octane vitality. Sykes steals the spotlight with remarkable solos, and while some songs, like “Walking In The Shadow of the Blues,” feel a bit rushed, they still pack a punch. Side B continues this legacy with tracks like “Crying in the Rain” and my personal favorite “Slow And Easy,” highlighting the band’s evolution and versatility.
As the second LP begins, we transition to the Glasgow show recorded on March 1, 1984, featuring none other than Jon Lord himself. The opening number, “Love Ain’t No Stranger,” mirrors selections from the Spokane gig, which raises the question of repetition within their setlists. However, the Glasgow performance enriches the experience with its raw authenticity and elevated keyboard prominence, thanks to Lord’s influence.
Listeners will instantly note the divergent sound quality; the Glasgow concert feels alive with its more gritty texture. Another standout moment arrives with “Here I Go Again,” featuring crowd participation that echoes the collective nostalgia of die-hard fans. The guitar work remains prominent throughout “Crying in the Rain,” underscoring Sykes’ prowess.
Ultimately, Washington State Wipeout offers a compelling glimpse into the past, featuring a full Spokane show complemented by highlights from Glasgow. While repetitions may disappoint some listeners, the high-quality audio from FM broadcasts provides an excellent listening experience. The only hiccup is the slight muddiness of “Fool For Your Loving,” but this can easily be overlooked. David Coverdale shines on vocals, and with Sykes bringing freshness to the compositions, this bootleg serves as an essential piece for any dedicated Whitesnake aficionado.
My overall rating for this release is a commendable 4 out of 5 stars, with the clear vinyl and thoughtful packaging proving a delightful bonus for collectors. This modern bootleg encapsulates the essence of classic Whitesnake performances, making it a worthy addition to any rock music library.
