Two interesting efforts complete one of rock's all-time album sides. In "House Burning Down" a psychadelic slice of a dying domicile's last day of life, bombastic 60s percussion and the repeated guitar screams of the word "burn" predominate. "Still Raining, Stream Dreaming" is an electrified sequel to Side Three's carefree and mellow romp "Rainy Day, Dream Away."

"1983... A Merman I Should Turn to Be" and "Moon... Turn the Tides Gently Gently Away" virtually comprise a self-contained Rock Opera that wrests harmony from a haunting guitar, soft lyrics, and an almost effervescent atmosphere. "Have you Ever Been (to Electric Ladyland)" is a gentle effort with an effective bit of disconnect in its dynamic. Restrained guitar adds depth. Upon listening to the finished cut, Hendrix, who had negligible musical training, reportedly exclaimed, "I can sing!"

"Crosstown Traffic" is a fast-paced factory of rock-n-soul with a gritty chorus unlikely to evoke comparisons to the croonings of Charlotte Church. "Voodoo Chile" is a fantastic live performance that paves a bluesier, less violent way for the unforgettable "Voodoo Child." "Burning of the Midnight Lamp" is an intriguing homage to the Beatles' "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds."

"And the Gods Made Love" is little more than a brief albeit interesting conceptual interlude. "Little Miss Strange," "Long Hot Summer Night," "Come On," and "Gypsy Eyes" form the backbone of Side 2 and more directly descend from Hendrix's earlier albums--they are effective productions but not as spectacular as the other regions of Ladyland.

Jimi Hendrix's Electric Ladyland is a sanctuary that soothes, funkafies, sensitizes, excites, and soulidifies. Shakespeare could have been describing Hendrix's Electric Lady when he wrote, "Age cannot wither her, nor custom stale her infinite variety." As Jimi sang, "The magic carpet waits for you...." Thank you James Marshall Hendrix, Rest in Peace.

FURTHER READING: Hendrix wins the Rolling Stone guitarists poll here (note the almost 400 comments), the Blogcritics guitarists poll here, and is accused of strumming for booty here.