TLDR Review: Bold As Love
Verdict
*Bold As Love* is a treasure trove for Hendrix fans offering extensive rare content, superb 5.1 surround sound, and deluxe packaging that breathes new life into a classic. However, the clunky packaging and underwhelming Blu-ray extras hold it back from being flawless. If immersive audio and unreleased material excite you, this box set is a highly recommended collector’s item, but if you’re after more visual content or a fuller live concert experience, keep an eye out for future releases.
- Top pro:
- Features a superb 5.1 surround sound mix that truly enhances the Jimi Hendrix listening experience.
- Top con:
- The mono mix is generally seen as unnecessary when compared to the superior 5.1 surround sound mix.
Pros
- •Features a superb 5.1 surround sound mix that truly enhances the Jimi Hendrix listening experience.
- •Includes both the original stereo and mono album mixes, plus original mono mixes of singles and b-sides, providing comprehensive audio options.
- •Offers 38 outtakes and alternate versions across 4 CDs, delivering extensive, previously unheard material for fans and collectors.
- •The Blu-ray disc contains uncompressed original mixes plus a new Dolby Atmos mix, promising immersive and high-resolution sound quality.
- •Beautiful artwork and a detailed 40-page booklet elevate the presentation, making it a collector's delight.
- •The outtakes and live performances on discs 3 and 4 are standout highlights, adding significant value.
- •Revitalizes a classic album with fresh insights and excellent sound quality, exceeding expectations even for those with large Hendrix collections.
- •Highly recommended as a must-have box set for Hendrix enthusiasts and serious collectors.
- •The Blu-ray Dolby Atmos mix, while untested by some, is expected to provide a spectacular listening experience.
Cons
- •The mono mix is generally seen as unnecessary when compared to the superior 5.1 surround sound mix.
- •The Blu-ray lacks any video or photo gallery content, offering audio only, which feels like a missed opportunity.
- •The 1967 Sweden concert included is only 31 minutes long and remastered only slightly better, limiting its appeal.
- •Packaging is poorly designed, making it difficult to remove CDs without causing damage, which frustrates users.
- •The Blu-ray mix, despite hype, doesn't feel significantly different or worth the extra inclusion for some listeners.
- •Some feel the overall release missed potential and is somewhat disappointing given Hendrix’s legacy.
- •Fans express a strong desire for an official Blu-ray and CD release of the complete 1969 Experience concert, which is currently unavailable.
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How we researched this
About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from ShopSavvy's price data.
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