Keith Richards had already secured a place in rock history through his decades with the Rolling Stones, yet his solo work revealed a different shade of his musical identity. Away from the vast machinery of The Stones, he tapped into raw rhythm and blues instincts to deliver records that felt personal and full of character. His post Stones output showed an artist revelling in freedom, writing and performing with the loose swagger that had always defined his best work.
Main Offender, released in 1992, followed the acclaimed Talk Is Cheap (1988) and reaffirmed Richards as a powerful solo voice. Recorded with his trusted band the X-Pensive Winos, an ever-evolving group made up of many of Richards’ musical friends, the album mixed grit, groove and sharp songwriting. It was received warmly by critics and fans alike, celebrated for its punchy production and the chemistry between Richards and his tight knit band of players.
The supporting tour that followed began in November 1992, with Richards and the Winos preparing throughout that month. These rehearsals, recorded in New York and broadcast on local radio to build excitement for the forthcoming shows, reveal a band sharpening its edges in readiness for the stage. The alternate versions presented here carry all the fire and looseness of musicians poised to perform, showing the live force Richards would soon deliver night after night.
1 Eileen 4:44
2 Take It So Hard 4:08
3 How I Wish (Take 1) 3:59
4 Yap Yap 4:37
5 Gimme Shelter 5:28
6 Little T & A (Take 1) 3:46
7 It Means A Lot 6:08
8 How I Wish (Take 2) 3:38
9 Sure The One You Need 4:20
10 Little T & A (Take 2) 4:16
11 Cocaine (with Eric Clapton) 5:35
12 Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On 1:13
13 Gimme Shelter 5:34
14 Big Enough (Acid Version Take 1) 7:17
15 Big Enough (Acid Version Take 2) 5:45
16 Big Enough (Acid Version Take 3) 5:16