From the press-release:
This is a previously unreleased show, taken from a recently found first generation copy of an original audience recorded master cassette tape. This show was recorded by an American woman and her recording was never in circulation. Until now, the Wichita show was never available in an acceptable sound. The only existing tape was of absolutely horrible quality, perhaps the worst audience recording ever. The EPE label looked for a better tape and succeeded! Although still not great quality, it is a very listenable recording of this wonderful December ’76 tour-opening show!
To prevent possible speculations: many years ago, the official „Follow That Dream“ label reportedly planned a possible soundboard release of the Wichita ’76 show. Unfortunately, this info was based on a mislabeled tape in the FTD vaults. There are no indications that a soundboard recording of this show exists.
Just as all other December '76 tour shows, this concert is excellent! Elvis appeared on stage with the same joy and energy as in Pittsburgh on New Year's Eve. Highlights are "Fairytale", "And I Love You So", a full version of "Early Mornin' Rain", an unbeatable performance of "How Great Thou Art", and "Hurt". One unique performance stands out. It was the very first time that Elvis performed "Unchained Melody", accompanying himself on piano. This premier performance is tentative in parts but that's part of the magic. A great Presley moment!
This CD is packaged in a nicely designed digipak accompanied with a 16-page booklet, filled with a.o. a local newspaper concert review, and special memories by the American fan who taped the show. We are happy that she was willing to share her unique, never before published snapshots, too! All images used for this project were taken in Wichita, KS, December 27, 1976.
Tracks:
Pre-program: 01. The Fifth Of Beethoven (disco version, by Joe Guercio orchestra) - 02. Gone At Last (by The Stamps) - 03. Operator (by The Stamps). Elvis Presley show: 04. Also Sprach Zarathustra (2001 Theme) - 05. C. C. Rider - 06. medley: I Got A Woman / Amen - 07. Love Me - 08. Fairytale - 09. You Gave Me A Mountain - 10. Jailhouse Rock - 11. medley: O Sole Mio (by Sherrill Nielsen) / It's Now Or Never - 12. All Shook Up - 13. medley: (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - 14. And I Love You So - 15. Fever - 16. Polk Salad Annie - 17. Band Introductions - 18. Early Mornin' Rain - 19. What'd I Say - 20. Johnny B. Goode - 21. Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt) - 22. Bass Solo (Blues - Jerry Scheff) - 23. Piano Solo (Tony Brown) - 24. Electric Piano Solo (David Briggs) - 25. Love Letters - 26. School Day - 27. Hurt (with reprise) - 28. Hound Dog - 29. How Great Thou Art - 30. Unchained Melody (performed 1st time) - 31. Can't Help Falling In Love - 32. Closing Vamp / Announcements.
Mystery Train: Sun Recordings
Due for release on march 10, 2017 from the Hoodoo Records label is the CD "Mystery Train: Sun Recordings". The CD contains "24 bit remastered" tracks and comes with 4 bonus tracks according to Amazon.
A Deluxe Date With Elvis
Due on March 10, 2017 from the State Of Art label is a Deluxe Edition CD entitled "A Date With Elvis".
(Source: FECC / Amazon)