Whitesnake has released an intriguing bootleg titled “Washington State Wipeout,” featuring broadcasts from Spokane and Glasgow in 1984. This compilation, part of The David Coverdale Series, was noted by 2 Loud 2 Old Music in a post published on October 9, 2024. During a recent vinyl hunt, the author stumbled upon this bootleg, which, despite being freshly pressed in 2023, showcases performances from the mid-80s.
The set is a double LP housed in an engaging gatefold design, complete with an eye-catching image of the band. The records themselves boast a stunning clear vinyl that enhances the aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive addition to any collection.
LP 1 features the Spokane concert from July 24, 1984, which took place shortly after the release of Whitesnake’s fourth studio album, “Slide It In,” debuting on January 30, 1984. The lineup at the Spokane Coliseum included David Coverdale, John Sykes, Richard Bailey, Neil Murray, and Cozy Powell—a lineup that fans of the band hold in high regard. Although they opened for Dio and had a limited setlist, the performance is captured here as an FM radio broadcast.
LP 2 shifts to the Glasgow show recorded on March 1, 1984, also an FM broadcast. This concert was a headlining event at the Apollo Theater with Great White serving as the opening act. While the full set consisted of 16 tracks, the bootleg includes five selections that showcase the band’s unique sound during this era.
The review describes how the Spokane concert kicks off with “The Gambler,” a track from “Slide It In.” Interestingly, four out of the seven songs performed came from that album, as U.S. audiences were primarily familiar with their latest work. The sound quality of the FM broadcast is exceptional, with Coverdale’s voice coming through distinctly, while the instruments maintain a solid presence in the mix.
As the Spokane show unfolds, tracks like “Guilty of Love” and “Love Ain’t No Stranger” take center stage, illustrating the band’s high-octane style and Sykes’ guitar prowess. The performance integrates elements from their earlier work, offering a balance between nostalgia and fresh interpretations.
Transitioning to LP 2, the Glasgow performance opens with another version of “Love Ain’t No Stranger.” Fans will appreciate the different sonic quality, attributed to the presence of Jon Lord on keyboards. The Glasgow audience’s familiarity with Whitesnake’s catalog becomes evident as they enthusiastically participate, particularly during “Here I Go Again.”
The review highlights that while some songs from both shows overlap, each performance captures a different essence, with the crowd’s energy and the musicianship on display. However, the sound quality of “Fool For Your Loving” offers a stark contrast, coming across as muddied compared to the otherwise good recordings.
In summary, “Washington State Wipeout” provides an engaging glimpse into Whitesnake’s live performances during the early 80s, expertly contributing to the legacy of David Coverdale and his talented bandmates. The reviewer scores this bootleg 4.0 out of 5, noting its compelling packaging and the overall quality of the recordings. For fans seeking classic Whitesnake moments on modern vinyl, this bootleg is a treasured find.
