Scorpions – ‘Rock And Roll Queen’ (2019) – (Bootleg – The Scorpions Collection Series) – 2 Loud 2 Old Music. Published on September 8, 2024, by 2loud2oldmusic.
There’s something undeniably thrilling about unearthing bootlegs from your favorite bands, and I recently stumbled upon a gem titled ‘Rock And Roll Queen.’ This particular recording features a live show from the legendary Fly to the Rainbow Tour, captured on April 26, 1975, at Grugahalle in Essen, Germany. The lineup for this concert was stellar, showcasing Klaus Meine, Uli Jon Roth, Rudolf Schenker, Rudy Lenners, and Francis Buchholz – a true powerhouse of rock talent.
Various editions of this bootleg exist in multiple vinyl colors, including red, white, and peach, as noted on Discogs. However, the version I managed to acquire is a traditional black vinyl, which curiously isn’t listed on Discogs—could it be rarer than the others? That remains a mystery.
The album kicks off with a remarkable jam session that’s pure guitar wizardry. Uli and Rudolf are firing on all cylinders, crafting a compelling drum and bass groove. This opening track, aptly named “Jam,” sets the stage perfectly. Following that, we dive into “This is My Song” from their ‘Fly to the Rainbow’ album. It’s a mid-tempo rock number that, while a bit rough around the edges due to its bootleg nature, allows every instrument to shine through, evoking the essence of 1975 rock.
When the applause subsides, the band switches gears. Klaus speaks to the audience in German, and then they launch into “They Need a Million,” which starts with a gentle guitar riff accompanied by Klaus’s smooth vocals. A powerful riff erupts later, elevating the track with heavy drumming, featuring Rudolf on lead vocals, complemented by Klaus’s harmonies—this one takes on a distinct rock & roll flavor compared to its studio counterpart.
“Drifting Sun” follows, and it’s Uli’s show all the way. The intro riffs channel a Hendrix vibe, reminiscent of “Spanish Castle Magic.” While Uli attempts to emulate Hendix’s vocal style, it leads to a track that, although a tad long, beautifully showcases his talents alongside Francis’s bass work.
Turning to the bluesy “Red House,” a Hendrix classic, fans are treated to sublime guitar riffs and groovy bass lines. It seems the song encounters some tape issues, leading to an abrupt stop and fade-in, leaving us wondering about its origin.
Side two kicks off with “Rock And Roll Queen.” This track is a true jam, yet its origins are a bit elusive—could it possibly be a cover? While puzzling over its authorship, the sheer power and intensity of the guitar work is undeniable.
Next up is “Fly to the Rainbow,” where the band ratchets up the energy, dismissing acoustic elements in favor of electric sounds, all driven by an adrenaline-pumping drum beat. This song’s numerous transitions and Uli’s storytelling vocals make it one of the evening’s standout performances.
With no hesitation, they roll into the electrifying “Speedy’s Coming,” where Uli’s guitar work steals the spotlight, complemented by Klaus’s iconic vocals. The seamless collaboration between Rudy’s drums and Francis’s bass creates a breathtaking synergy.
The finale is “Robot Man,” a track from the ‘In Trance’ album, which would be released months later. The song is a whirlwind of rapid-fire drums and Rudolf’s infectious guitar rhythm, bringing the show to a high-energy close, though it ends rather humbly with polite applause.
To wrap things up, the experience of listening to this 1975 bootleg is immensely satisfying. It’s curious that they chose to overlook anything from ‘Lonesome Crow.’ Sound quality varies—you’ll hear moments of fading—but it doesn’t detract significantly from the experience. Overall, it’s a tight set, showcasing impressive guitar work alongside Klaus’s unmistakable passion.
I score this bootleg a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. While there are likely superior recordings out there, this capturing remains a delightful glimpse into Scorpions’ early years. The band’s energy and Klaus’s engaging interactions with their German audience make it a noteworthy addition to any rock collection.
The Scorpions Collection Series features: Lonesome Crow (1972), Fly to the Rainbow (1974), In Trance (1975), and many more classics reflecting their journey through rock history.
In summary, if you’re a fan of the early Scorpions era, this treasure of a bootleg offers a nostalgic yet exhilarating listening experience.
