Guide to British Music of the 1960s
December 2008
DVD Review
Beat Beat Beat The Spencer Davis Group
Beat Beat Beat was one of two regular German television music programmes that have preserved some of the best British music. Unlike NDR's Beat Club, much of Beat Beat Beat from Hessischer Rundfunk was recorded live. Many of these performances have survived and are now released, often for the first time on video or DVD.
The Spencer Davis Group played on Beat Beat Beat in summer 1966 at the height of their fame. The classic line-up is featured with young Steve Winwood handling most of the lead vocals as well as lead guitar with brother Muff Winwood on bass, Spencer Davis on rhythm guitar and Pete York on drums. The first track is the hit single Somebody Help Me. This is followed by Sittin' and Thinkin' which is sung by Spencer Davis Group who also provides mouth organ. Steve Winwood plays some excellent blues guitar. Steve Winwood is back on lead vocals for Please Do Something. The final selection is the massive hit Keep on Running which is introduced in flawless German by Spencer Davis. This track is the real highlight of the 4-song set with its chopping rhythm guitar, pumping bass line and soulful Winwood vocals.
Track listing:
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Somebody Help Me
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Sittin' and Thinkin'
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Please Do Something
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Keep on Running