Queen songs live vs. studio

Chief Mouse wrote:

I think it's subjective and depends on what each person prefers.

Yeah, that's a given.

The way these discussions usually work is:

Person A states why he/she likes C more than, less than or equally as, D.

Person B either agrees or disagrees and states his/her reasons to do so.

As long as neither A nor B state or imply their perspective is inherently 'superior' to the other's, there's no problem.

Sebastian wrote:

Chief Mouse wrote:

I think it's subjective and depends on what each person prefers.

Yeah, that's a given.

The way these discussions usually work is:

Person A states why he/she likes C more than, less than or equally as, D.

Person B either agrees or disagrees and states his/her reasons to do so.

As long as neither A nor B state or imply their perspective is inherently 'superior' to the other's, there's no problem.

Yes, you are correct.

What do you think of A Kind Of Magic live?

Pros of the live version:

* Live drumming.
* Brian on backing vocals (occasionally).
* Roger virtually dueting with Fred at some points.
* It's got an actual ending.
* Guitar throughout.
* Less cheesy synths.

Pros of the studio version:

* Fred hits all the high notes.
* No Spike (unless he plays keys).
* Guitar harmonies (some played by Roger, in fact).

Sebastian wrote:

* Fred hits all the high notes.

* Guitar harmonies (some played by Roger, in fact).

Leiden first night is probably the definitive live version vocal-wise. Wish we had that in pro.

Interesting point about Roger - I didn't know this :)

Not only did Roger record some of those multi-tracked bits, but he played the Red Special, no less!

Sebastian wrote:

noorie wrote:

I am surprised nobody has thought of See What A Fool I've Been. I totally dislike the album version

To be fair, there's no album version, as it was not on an album. It was the B-side of a single.

.

Actually I own the 1991 Hollywood Records reissue, and See What A Fool I've Been is a bonus track on it. Perhaps that does not count..?

Sebastian wrote:

noorie wrote:

Another live version which is much better is You Take My Breath Away at Earl's Court.

I disagree. Sometimes less is more, but sometimes more is more.

Piano < Piano, Guitars and Percussion.

Great lead vocal < Great lead vocal + great harmonies.

I think all the harmonies take away from this simple yet amazing song. Just the man with his piano and incredible voice gives the song more emotional value, makes it feel more intimate.

I like both, though to me there's no doubt the harmonies in the studio version of YTMBA are among the best ever in pop/rock music.

Oscar J wrote:

I like both, though to me there's no doubt the harmonies in the studio version of YTMBA are among the best ever in pop/rock music.

+1.

Possibly my favourite Queen track; the lead vocal, vocal harmonies, the delicacy of the piano, the superbly thought out guitar parts and intricate bass are all perfection