Inside Sly and the Family Stone’s Lost Live Album

In the annals of music history, few bands can rival the eclectic and influential style of Sly and the Family Stone. Recently, the discovery of a “lost live album” has brought renewed attention to this iconic group’s early years. Alec Palao, a passionate archivist and reissue producer, has played a significant role in bringing this rare live recording to light. The album, titled *The First Family: Live at Winchester Cathedral 1967*, is a testament to the genius of Sly Stone and the dynamic band he led. This discovery offers an auditory time capsule from the band’s formative months, vividly capturing their innovative fusion of funk, rock, and soul.

Alec Palao’s journey with Sly Stone began in a rather unassuming manner. Stories of visiting Stone in his modest lodgings in Los Angeles reveal the intimate and visceral connection Palao developed with the legendary artist. Palao recounts an experience where he selected a sweatsuit from a Target sale rack, a thoughtful gesture for Stone, who immediately appreciated the chosen colors for their personal significance. Such moments underscore the human side of celebrities like Sly Stone, who, despite his fame, faced financial struggles and personal challenges.

One of Palao’s notable tasks included securing a licensing deal with Stone for the Ace Records compilation, *Listen To The Voices: Sly Stone in the Studio 1965-70*. Despite logistical hurdles, Palao’s persistence paid off, reflecting Stone’s understanding and appreciation of genuine interest in his artistic legacy. Stone’s charisma and inherent artistry were evident in the way he wielded music not just as a form of expression but as a standard-setting narrative for future musicians. His embrace of various musical influences, including Bob Dylan and Ray Charles, showcased his eclectic taste and contributed to his groundbreaking sound.

Despite the darker aspects of Stone’s life, including his well-documented drug habits, Palao’s anecdotes vividly bring to life Stone’s charm and enduring creativity. One humorous moment mentions Stone’s resourceful transformation of everyday items for unconventional uses, such as crafting an impromptu smoking device out of ballpoint pens. These stories offer a window into his vibrant and multifaceted personality, providing layers to his public persona beyond his musical genius.

The live album, recorded at Winchester Cathedral during an Easter morning show in 1967, represents an important musical relic rescued from obscurity. Initially recorded by Rich Romanello, the band’s first manager, the tapes lay dormant until resurrected by the efforts of Edwin and Arno Konings—described as the ultimate Sly sleuths. Palao’s technical acumen was instrumental in restoring the sound quality, unveiling the crispness of Stone’s vocals and the band’s already distinct style, even in its nascent stage.

This recording is not just a testament to the band’s incredible musicianship but also an essential piece of cultural history. It’s a vivid reminder of the electricity that Sly and the Family Stone brought to their performances, a snapshot of a band fully formed and vibrant from the start. The album’s restoration journey from obscurity to public release underscores the continued interest in the multifaceted legacy of Sly Stone. His death has sparked increased interest, reaffirming his importance in the annals of music history.

The rediscovery and release of *The First Family: Live at Winchester Cathedral 1967* provide fans and historians alike with a deeper understanding of Sly Stone’s early artistry. It’s a reminder of his innovative spirit and the timeless quality of his music. For collectors and new listeners, the album adds a significant chapter to the narrative of Sly and the Family Stone, solidifying their place in the pantheon of music’s greatest bands. As Palao attests, encountering a piece of musical mythology that lives up to its legend is rare, making this release a treasured artifact in the study of modern music history.