Album: Crash Landing

Introduction
"Crash Landing" is a posthumous compilation album by American rock artist Jimi Hendrix, launched in 1975 by his estate through Reprise Records. The album includes unreleased studio recordings and outtakes from the sessions of his previous works. As Hendrix died in 1970, he had no input into this release. Manufacturer Alan Douglas, who was commissioned to assemble the album, controversially changed the initial support artists, Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox (the drummer and bassist who had actually played together with Hendrix), with a group of session artists in order to produce a more "contemporary" sound.

Background and Production
After Jimi Hendrix's death in 1970, a number of albums containing unreleased product and outtakes from his taping sessions were launched. In the mid-1970s, Alan Douglas was granted control of Hendrix's unreleased music library by the guitar player's estate. The objective was to take this product, edit and polish it, and launch it as a completed album in a way that would justify Hendrix's tradition. Douglas took recordings primarily from the 1969 "Band of Gypsys" sessions, though recordings from other periods were used also.

Nevertheless, rather of providing the material as it was at first taped, Douglas chose to replace the original rhythm area of Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox with new artists in an effort to offer the album a more modern feel. This decision was the source of substantial debate amongst fans and critics, who felt that the initial tracks were being distorted which the contributions of Mitchell and Cox were being unjustly disregarded.

Track Listing and Songs
"Crash Landing" includes a collection of 10 tracks, each with special stories and inspirations behind them. Although the album doesn't follow a cohesive story or style, it showcases the creativity and skill that defined Hendrix's profession.

1. "Message to Love" - A live favorite that was never ever finished in the studio by Hendrix. It includes a memorable tune and showcases the guitar player's distinct design.

2. "Somewhere" - A mid-tempo rock song that includes a meaningful guitar solo that is noticeably Hendrix.

3. "Crash Landing" - The title track is a blues-infused rock tune with an introspective story.

4. "Come Down Hard on Me" - Another bluesy number that highlights Hendrix's distinct vocal style.

5. "Peace in Mississippi" - This critical track is defined by its energetic rhythm and evocative guitar work.

6. "With the Power" - A power-packed rock tune, including effective guitar work and intense lyrics.

7. "Stone Free Again" - An alternate variation of Hendrix's classic "Stone Free", this track features a more blues-driven sound.

8. "Captain Coconut" - A psychedelic critical piece, total with speculative guitar work and erratic rhythms.

9. "Stone Free" - The initial variation of "Stone Free", this traditional track showcases Hendrix's indisputable talent as a songwriter and guitarist.

10. "New Rising Sun" - A powerful, important track that brings the album to a fitting close.

Reception and Controversy
"Crash Landing" got blended reviews from critics and fans. While some applauded the album's production and brand-new plans, others were vital of Douglas' decision to modify the initial recordings by replacing the contributions of Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox. Critics argued that the album did not precisely represent Hendrix's creative intents or pay appropriate tribute to his tradition.

Regardless of the controversy surrounding the album's production and release, "Crash Landing" reached # 5 on the Billboard 200 chart, showing the enduring popularity of Jimi Hendrix's music even years after his death.

In conclusion, "Crash Landing" is a testament to the enduring skill and impact of Jimi Hendrix. Regardless of the debate surrounding its production, the album functions as an intriguing representation of what might have been had Hendrix lived to finish these recordings himself.