Virtually

Virtually is a live concert album by Soft Machine, presenting a previously unreleased show recorded on March 23, 1971 and issued as a compact disc. The release collects the full concert performance in an 11-track set that features material drawn largely from the band's Third and Fourth era work.

The recording on this edition was licensed from German radio and sourced from master tapes; the release credits Elton Dean, Mike Ratledge, Hugh Hopper and Robert Wyatt. The package is offered as a CD with a digital download option and includes a digital booklet.

The release is noted for capturing the classic quartet near the end of their original run and is frequently described as essential listening for dedicated Soft Machine fans, with sound quality that is strong for a live document of its period.

Pros:

• Documents a complete live concert from March 23, 1971 with versions of tracks from Third and Fourth.
• Sourced from German radio master tapes — recording quality regarded as strong for the era.
• Features the classic Soft Machine quartet lineup (Elton Dean, Mike Ratledge, Hugh Hopper, Robert Wyatt).
• CD release includes digital download options and a digital booklet.

Cons:

• Source is a 1971 live radio recording, so fidelity reflects the era rather than modern studio clarity.
• Primarily of interest to established Soft Machine fans and collectors rather than casual listeners.