In June 1970, when Traffic performed at Crosley Field in Cincinnati, they had recently released their third studio album, "John Barleycorn Must Die," which came out in July of that year. This album marked a significant progression for the band, showcasing their blend of rock, jazz, and folk influences, and is often celebrated as a high point in their career. The live recording captures a pivotal moment as Traffic was transitioning from their earlier psychedelic roots to a more mature sound, characterized by the incorporation of jazz elements and a greater emphasis on the collaborative songwriting of Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood. The Midsummer Rock festival, where this recording was made, not only featured Traffic but also a lineup of notable artists, highlighting the band's growing prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s rock scene.