Traffic

In February 1972, when Traffic performed at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, they were riding high on the success of their album "John Barleycorn Must Die," which had been released in July 1970. This album marked a significant turning point in the band's career as it was their first project after the departure of founding member Steve Winwood. The live recording features the tracks "Glad" and "Freedom Rider," showcasing the band's blend of rock, jazz, and folk influences that characterized their sound. Notably, this period saw traffic solidifying their lineup with members such as Jim Capaldi and Chris Wood. Just prior to the Santa Monica concert, the New Musical Express reported on personnel changes within the band, including the departures of Jim Gordon and Ric Grech, signaling a transformative time in their history. The live performance captured the essence of Traffic's evolving artistry during this dynamic phase of their career.

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