Record Review - The Jimi Hendrix Experience: Valleys of Neptune

“When in doubt, reissue” should be the motto of a recording industry that finds its revenues decimated in the age of digital downloading. In Jimi Hendrix’s case, that has been the modus operandi since his untimely death in September 1970, less than a year after these recordings were tracked. Valleys of Neptune is the flagship title in another volley of reissues of Hendrix’s original studio classics. It’s the fourth go-round for most of them, so short but enlightening making-of DVDs are added to entice collectors and the few newcomers who don’t already own this still innovative, influential and timeless rock. Valleys was assembled primarily from previously unreleased studio recordings following the Electric Ladyland sessions. The guitarist revisits older songs, tests new material and lays down extended versions of popular concert items, many illuminating his blues roots. It’s quality stuff but hardly as indispensable as the existing catalog, which in these new remastered editions, sounds better than ever. 3 out of 5 stars.