dreadpirateroberts
Relying on a similar formula to their previous release ('First Rays...'), the Hendrix family collect another mixture of unreleased and previously released material, alternate mixes and treasures in 'South Saturn Delta.'
These songs, without the burden of having to represent an unfinished album, sit together more comfortably. Songs like 'Look Over Yonder' and 'Here He Comes,' along with studio versions of 'Power of(to) Soul' and 'Message to Love' are nice additions to the Hendrix fan's collection, but it is surprises like the funky horns in the title track or the ever-shifting psych-pop of 'Tax Free' that make this collection so enjoyable. Outtake 'Midnight' has some wild moments and 'Pali's Gap' is another moving piece of lead work from Hendrix, an instrumental built around a long build up and a great rhythm section.
Other moments may not seem essential, and they aren't really, like the remix of 'All Along the Watchtower' or the demos of 'Angel' but they do provide insight into the development of a song.
Again, not an essential album, but a good collection of songs with some essential tracks sitting beside unfinished ones.