The Complete Matrix Tapes [Box Set]

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The Complete Matrix Tapes [Box Set] Image
Metascore
86

Universal acclaim - based on 13 Critics What's this?

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  • Summary: The four-disc set features the recordings of the band's performances at San Francisco's Matrix club in November 1969.
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
  1. The Guardian
    Dec 10, 2015
    100
    It’s fascinating stuff, even for those for whom a 37-minute version of Sister Ray is pushing it a bit. It’s actually where the band stretch out that it becomes most fascinating.
  2. Billboard.com
    Nov 23, 2015
    100
    What makes this collection essential is the cohesion of the band and the setlists: The shows find the Velvets at their absolute peak as a live unit.
  3. PopMatters
    Dec 4, 2015
    90
    To hear one of the greatest bands of all time make this sort of conscious evolution in front of an audience is something special and something that fans rarely get to experience. This is as close as many of us will get with the Velvet Underground, but it’s more than worth it.
  4. Classic Rock Magazine
    Dec 9, 2015
    80
    Diehards will thrill to the inclusion of hitherto unreleased versions of Some Kinda Love, Sweet Jane and After Hours, though perhaps baulk at having to shell out for material they already own. Still, this is historical, compelling fare.
  5. Uncut
    Dec 11, 2015
    80
    Substantial tranches of the Matrix Tapes have already appeared elsewhere. [Jan 2016, p.89]
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  6. Q Magazine
    Dec 9, 2015
    80
    Hearing these set whole makes a difference: sparse yet hypnotic; with Lou on commanding form. [Jan 2016, p.120]
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  7. Record Collector
    Dec 14, 2015
    60
    While the music is frequently revelatory, capturing the post-Cale line-up chilled and stretching out, as on the 40-minute Sister Ray with Lou’s guitar on overdrive, most tracks have appeared before; on 1974’s 1969 Live, 2001’s The Quine Tapes and the third album reissue.

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