Disc two is more of a mixed bag with live selections from a variety of venues with varying sound quality. “Alan’s Intro” is Wilson's slide introduction to "Woodstock Boogie" recorded at the 1969 festival. "Skat" is just that, Wilson scatting over a meandering jam. “Human Condition” was Wilson's final studio recording which leads into the most poignant offering on the set, the last cut of "Childhood’s End."
Beyond the music, the package benefits from very good liner notes from Taylor who gets into the stories behind the songs. There seemed only one real lapse to me. Why not a taste of Wilson supporting Son House or some interplay between Wilson and Hooker? For a full tribute to the man, it wasn't required every offering feature his vocals or simply be a Wilson guitar instrumental.
But beyond these omissions, The Blind Owl is a worthy addition to any library of Canned Heat music, music of the '60s, and for those who love blues-rock. For many, I suspect, they'll discover or re-discover a voice and sound that more than deserves this nicely assembled memorial. As Wilson said at Woodstock, "It's a good night for a boogie!"
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