This album is the only official live document of the Peter Gabriel era released during his tenure with the band. Originally, Genesis had no intention of releasing a live record in 1973; they were focused on writing their next studio masterpiece, Selling England by the Pound. However, their label, Charisma Records, needed a stop-gap release to maintain momentum and combat the rise of high-quality bootlegs circulating among fans.

The Recording: The material was culled from two performances on the Foxtrot tour in February 1973—one at De Montfort Hall, Leicester and another at the Free Trade Hall, Manchester. These shows were originally captured by the Pye Mobile Recording Unit for the American radio program King Biscuit Flower Hour, but were never broadcast there. The resulting album captures the "Classic Lineup" (Gabriel, Banks, Collins, Hackett, and Rutherford) at their theatrical peak.

The "Lost" Version: Interestingly, early double-LP test pressings included a 23-minute live version of "Supper's Ready," but it was famously edited down to a single disc to keep the price low for retail chains like Woolworths. Despite being a "budget" release, it became the band's first Top 10 album in the UK.

Condition:

• Sleeve (EX): The original matte-textured sleeve is well-preserved. It is notable for its lack of lamination, which was standard for first-run EMI pressings.

• Media (EX): The vinyl is clean with high luster. The large "Mad Hatter" labels are free of spindle marks or wear.

Format: Vinyl LP, Album, Stereo

Publication: Charisma Records

Issue Date: July 20, 1973

Country: United Kingdom