Without The Aid Of A Safety Net - Deluxe 3x180gm Vinyl

In this review the focus is on the deluxe vinyl reissue of Big Country's Without The Aid Of A Safety Net, aimed at collectors and listeners who want a complete live concert on heavyweight vinyl. The single biggest reason to buy is the unedited, full-concert presentation split across three 180gm LPs, which preserves pacing and dynamics better than the original single-vinyl release. For fans of the band or audiophiles who value a faithful live experience, this pressing offers a clear, well-packaged way to relive the Barrowland Ballroom show.

Key Features

• Triple 180gm pressing: Three heavy 180gm records reduce inner-groove distortion and allow wider grooves for improved dynamic range across the full concert.
• Complete unedited concert: The full set is presented uncut, so listeners get every track and stage moment exactly as performed at The Barrowland Ballroom.
• Tri-fold sleeve package: The tri-fold sleeve provides sturdy protection and a presentation that mirrors the live event atmosphere when shelved or displayed.
• Heavyweight black vinyl: The heavyweight black pressing offers a classic aesthetic and a durable playing surface for repeated listening.
• Mixed set list: The record blends material from The Buffalo Skinners with classic hits and two Neil Young covers to showcase the bands range in a live setting.

Who It's For

This edition is ideal for Big Country fans who want a definitive vinyl document of a key live show, especially those who collect heavyweight pressings and prefer complete concert captures. Vinyl collectors who value packaging, fidelity, and the continuity of an entire performance will appreciate the three-LP format and tri-fold sleeve.

Listeners looking for a budget or single-disc novelty reissue should look elsewhere, as this deluxe pressing prioritizes sound quality and completeness over compactness. If you only want a greatest-hits sampler or a digital playlist, the full unedited concert may include material you do not need.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Full, unedited concert provides an authentic live listening experience and preserves stage flow.
• Three 180gm LPs improve sound quality and reduce inner-groove issues compared with a single vinyl pressing.
• Tri-fold sleeve and heavyweight black vinyl give the package a durable, collectible presentation.

Cons

• The complete concert length requires more storage space and may be more costly than a single-disc reissue.

Specifications

Artist	Big Country
Title	Without The Aid Of A Safety Net
Format	Triple 180gm vinyl LP
Packaging	Tri-fold sleeve
Content	Complete unedited concert recording
Notable tracks	Alone; Ships; In A Big Country; Rockin' In The Free World
Original release year (concert)	Recorded at Barrowland Ballroom, originally released 1994

Our Verdict

This deluxe three-LP pressing is recommended for collectors and fans who want the complete Barrowland concert presented with care. The 180gm records and tri-fold sleeve make it good value for those who prioritize sound and presentation, while casual listeners may prefer a simpler release or digital options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the full live concert?
The pressing contains the complete unedited concert recording as presented across the three LPs.

What format is the vinyl?
The set is a triple 180gm heavyweight black vinyl pressing in a tri-fold sleeve.

Does this include studio tracks?
The release features live performances, including songs from The Buffalo Skinners and classic catalogue tracks, plus two Neil Young covers.