Classic Albums Live
Classic Albums Live is a groundbreaking concert series that celebrates legendary albums by performing them live, note-for-note and cut-for-cut. Founded in 2003 by Canadian musician and producer Craig Martin, the series brings a studio-quality experience to the stage, treating these iconic records as timeless works of art.
Unlike traditional tribute bands, Classic Albums Live avoids costumes, impersonations, and theatrics. The focus is purely on the music. Each performance includes a full, track-by-track recreation of a classic album, followed by a second set featuring the greatest hits from the artist's catalog. Albums performed include masterpieces like The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon, Fleetwood Mac's Rumours, and Led Zeppelin IV.
The series features a rotating roster of world-class musicians, handpicked for their ability to replicate the intricate details of the original recordings. The lineup changes depending on the album being performed but always includes top-tier session players, touring artists, and local talents renowned for their expertise.
Craig Martin, a Toronto-based producer and musician, created Classic Albums Live to honor the artistry of iconic albums. His vision was to elevate classic rock performances by emphasizing musical integrity and precision. This dedication has made the series a resounding success, appealing to both lifelong fans and newcomers.
Classic Albums Live performs in a wide variety of venues, from intimate theaters to major performing arts centers. Notable venues include:
Massey Hall in Toronto, Canada
Hard Rock Live in Orlando, Florida
The Smith Center in Las Vegas, Nevada
Centre In The Square in Kitchener, Ontario
Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, New Jersey
With frequent tours across North America, the series ensures accessibility for fans in both major cities and smaller communities.
Appealing to a broad audience, Classic Albums Live resonates with those who grew up with these albums and younger generations discovering them for the first time. Its meticulous attention to detail and world-class musicianship have earned widespread acclaim and a devoted following.
By stripping away theatrics and focusing exclusively on the music, Classic Albums Live offers a fresh, authentic way to experience the brilliance of these timeless records. It bridges generations, rekindling nostalgia while introducing classic albums to a new wave of listeners.
