Bootleg

AMG Review of Bootleg

Vincent Jeffries
All Music Guide

Originally released as a double album, Bootleg is a collection of early Larry Norman solo rarities recorded between 1968 and 1972. Included are many alternate versions of popular songs from Norman's early career, some live material, a few interviews/speeches/sermons, and some original tracks that do not appear anywhere else in the musician's catalog. Listeners who are so inclined should pay special attention to the spoken section on side three of Bootleg. The "grandfather of CCM" testifies eloquently about his belief and how it is translated through his music. Many a CCM artist and preacher (of any faith) could learn from Norman's delivery, which is typically humorous and humble. While there are several vastly superior offerings in this Jesus rocker's oeuvre, Bootleg does offer a stripped-down and intimate view of Norman. Serious fans would do very well to seek out this diverse Christian rock offering.