Discovering Whitesnake’s "Washington State Wipeout": A Vinyl Treasure Hunt
On my latest vinyl digging adventure, I stumbled upon a couple of intriguing Whitesnake bootlegs at a local record store. These weren’t your typical dusty relics from the past; instead, they were fresh releases from 2023, hailing from Europe. The first gem I picked up is titled "Washington State Wipeout," a stunning 2 LP set that captures the essence of Whitesnake’s live performances from 1984.
The Packaging and Presentation
The "Washington State Wipeout" set comes in a beautifully designed gatefold sleeve, featuring an eye-catching image of the band. The vinyl itself is a striking clear color, which not only looks fantastic but also adds a modern touch to this classic collection. As soon as I got my hands on it, I couldn’t resist tearing off the plastic and giving it a spin.
LP 1: Spokane, Washington – July 24, 1984
The first LP features a live recording from Spokane, Washington, where Whitesnake performed at the Spokane Coliseum. This show took place shortly after the release of their 1984 album, "Slide It In," which debuted on January 30, 1984. The lineup for this performance included the powerhouse vocals of David Coverdale, the electrifying guitar of John Sykes, and the rhythmic backbone provided by Neil Murray and Cozy Powell. Notably absent was the legendary Jon Lord, whose presence was sorely missed.
The setlist for this show was relatively short, as Whitesnake was opening for Dio, but it was packed with energy. The recording is an FM radio broadcast, which means the sound quality is excellent. The first track, “The Gambler,” sets the tone with its infectious energy, showcasing Coverdale’s impressive vocal range.
As the show progresses, the audience is treated to a mix of tracks from "Slide It In" and earlier albums. Highlights include “Guilty of Love,” a high-octane rocker that features a blistering guitar solo from Sykes, and “Love Ain’t No Stranger,” which showcases the band’s sultry side. The performance of “Walking In The Shadow of the Blues” is a bit faster than the original, but it still retains its hard-hitting essence.
LP 2: Glasgow, Scotland – March 1, 1984
Flipping over to the second LP, we find ourselves transported to the Apollo Theater in Glasgow, Scotland, where Whitesnake headlined a show with Great White opening. This recording, also an FM radio broadcast, captures a different vibe. The Glasgow crowd is more familiar with the band’s material, and the energy is palpable.
The set kicks off with another rendition of “Love Ain’t No Stranger,” but this time, the keyboards have a more prominent role, thanks to Jon Lord’s masterful playing. The sound is rawer and grittier, which adds to the excitement of the performance.
One standout moment is the performance of “Here I Go Again,” where the crowd sings along enthusiastically. This version features the original lyrics, referring to a "Hobo" instead of a "Drifter," showcasing the song’s evolution over time. The band also delivers a powerful rendition of “Crying in the Rain,” with Sykes’ guitar work shining through.
The final tracks from this LP include “Ain’t No Love In The Heart Of The City,” a classic from their debut EP, and “Fool For Your Loving,” which is performed with a speedier tempo than the original. The crowd’s participation is infectious, making it a memorable conclusion to the Glasgow set.
Overall Impressions
The "Washington State Wipeout" bootleg is a delightful find for any Whitesnake fan. It offers a glimpse into the band’s live performances during a pivotal time in their career, showcasing their evolution from bluesy rock to a more polished hard rock sound. The sound quality is impressive, and the clear vinyl adds a touch of modernity to this classic collection.
With a mix of familiar hits and deep cuts, this bootleg serves as a fantastic tribute to the band’s legacy, capturing the raw energy and charisma that Whitesnake is known for. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their music, this set is a must-have addition to any vinyl collection.
