Studio albums typically represent the purest expression of a musical artist’s artistic vision. Recording in a controlled environment allows them to (theoretically) create the exact sound they want. But many musicians are actually at their best when performing live, where perfection is replaced by spontaneity, and the performers only have a single take to nail their various parts. Here are 10 of the best live albums ever.

Fishmans, 98.12.28 男達の別れ (98.12.28 Otokotachi no Wakare)

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Nirvana, MTV Unplugged in New York

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Johnny Cash, At Folsom Prison

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Neil Young & Crazy Horse, Rust Never Sleeps

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Talking Heads, The Name of This Band Is Talking Heads

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The Who, Live at Leeds

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Townes Van Zandt, Live at The Old Quarter, Houston, Texas

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The Allman Brothers Band, At Fillmore East

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Portishead, Roseland NYC Live

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Sufjan Stevens, Carrie & Lowell Live

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