Angel (Footsteps) (Live 2015)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the mesmerizing "Angel (Footsteps) (Live 2015)" by Jeff Beck from the album Performing This Week... Live At Ronnie Scott's, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this jazz-rock fusion gem. Recorded during Beck’s 2007 performances at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London, this live rendition showcases Beck’s virtuosic guitar work alongside an exceptional band, including drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, keyboardist Jason Rebello, and the remarkably talented bassist Tal Wilkenfeld. One piece of trivia that stands out is the awe inspired by Wilkenfeld, who was only 21 at the time of the performance. Fans on Reddit have raved about her contribution, with one user warning, “Careful, you’ll fall in love with Tal Wilkenfeld, the bass player ♥,” highlighting the band’s chemistry that elevates this track to sublime heights. The song itself, originally from Beck’s 1999 album Who Else!, transforms in this live setting into a dynamic showcase of Beck’s ability to blend melody and technical prowess, with fans noting his minimal use of effects—just a wah-wah, echo, and distortion pedal—to achieve his distinctive sound.

Another fascinating story comes from the atmosphere of those Ronnie Scott’s shows, which were the hottest tickets in London in 2007. The intimate setting of the club drew luminaries like Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, with rumors that Paul McCartney even popped by one night to catch his favorite guitarist. Reviews of the live album, like one from VintageRock.com, praise “Angel (Footsteps)” for Beck’s tension-building guitar strings, complemented by Rebello’s smooth keyboard work, creating a track that feels both fresh and timeless. The performances were so impactful that the live version of “A Day in the Life” from the same album won a Grammy for Best Rock Instrumental Performance, underscoring the caliber of this recording. Fans on Amazon have called the album “unbelievably good,” with one reviewer noting Beck’s ability to make familiar songs feel new and surprising, a quality that shines through in “Angel (Footsteps).”

Jeff Beck, born Geoffrey Arnold Beck on June 24, 1944, in Wallington, Surrey, began his musical journey with a homemade guitar at age 15, playing it through a radio. Inspired by rockabilly guitarists like Cliff Gallup and James Burton, as well as blues legends Buddy Guy and Otis Rush, Beck’s early passion for innovative sound set the stage for his career. He honed his craft in local bands before joining The Yardbirds in 1965, replacing Eric Clapton. His tenure with the band produced hits like “Heartful of Soul” and “Shapes of Things,” where his “fuzzed-up” blues style pushed the boundaries of rock. After leaving The Yardbirds, Beck formed the Jeff Beck Group with Rod Stewart and Ron Wood, laying the groundwork for heavy metal with albums like Truth. His career spanned blues rock, jazz fusion, and instrumental rock, earning him eight Grammy Awards and two inductions into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

Beck’s official website, jeffbeck.com, offers a deep dive into his discography and legacy, though it notes his passing on January 10, 2023. Fans can connect on his official Facebook page, which continues to share tributes, and his Instagram account, where vintage photos and performance clips keep his spirit alive. On X, the @jeffbeckmusic account posts updates about reissues and memorials. For Zoo Freaks looking to join the community, fan-driven spaces like the Jeff Beck Fans Facebook group offer a place to share stories and celebrate his music. Websites like Veojam provide performance videos and insights, while Discogs is a treasure trove for collectors seeking rare pressings of Performing This Week... Live At Ronnie Scott’s. Beck’s fearless exploration of sound continues to inspire, making “Angel (Footsteps)” a perfect spin for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic vibe.