KOTZEN, RICHIE the essential IEZP-72
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Artist = KOTZEN, RICHIE
Title = the essential
Label = WHD
Catalog# = IEZP-72
Barcode = 4582213915891
Release = JAPAN
Year = 2014
RPM =
Disc Size = 5"
Number of Discs = 3
Mono/Stereo = stereo
22trk, a 2-disc definitive collection from the virtuoso guitarist and soulful vocalist. this essential set covers his blues, rock, and soul stylings, perfect for new listeners.
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Today’s entry spotlights a comprehensive collection from one of rock’s most talented multi-instrumentalists: Richie Kotzen. We are looking at the 2014 Japanese deluxe set, “The Essential Richie Kotzen,” released by WHD Entertainment with the catalog number IEZP-72. This copy comes complete with its original obi strip.
Known for his stints in Poison, Mr. Big, and The Winery Dogs, Kotzen’s solo career is a deep well of soulful vocals, bluesy guitar work, and solid songwriting. This 2CD + 1DVD set serves as the definitive introduction to his diverse musical palette.
Disc 1 gathers key tracks from his solo albums, showcasing his “thick-boned” rock numbers alongside his signature blend of R&B and soul.
Disc 2 is a treat for dedicated fans, featuring 2014 re-recordings of songs like “What Is” and “High,” along with rare acoustic versions and demos. A standout track here is his acoustic self-cover of “Until You Suffer Some (Fire And Ice),” a song he wrote for Poison. Hearing it with his own soulful vocal delivery brings out the song’s blues roots in a way the original version didn’t.
The DVD compiles 11 music videos, including “Walk With Me,” “Paying Dues,” and “Larger Than Life,” offering a visual history of his solo evolution.
While some guitar shred enthusiasts might find the selection leans heavily on his vocal-oriented songs, this collection proves that Kotzen is a songwriter first and a guitar hero second. His unique world-view turns every genre—whether folk, soul, or hard rock—into something unmistakably his own.
Why this edition?
IEZP-72 is a comprehensive 3-disc package (2 CDs + DVD) that includes Japanese liner notes and translations. It is the perfect entry point for new listeners intrigued by his work in The Winery Dogs and an essential archive for long-time fans looking for the rare acoustic cuts and video collection.