Jimi Hendrix's fourth album, and also his first and only live recording, was released in March 1970, six months before his tragic death. After the breakup of the Jimi Hendrix Experience in June 1969, following three LPs and two highly successful years, he decided to pursue a new musical direction. He was driven by long-standing legal disputes with his former manager Ed Chalpin, to whom he still owed an album. He received support from two longtime friends, bassist Billy Cox and drummer Buddy Miles. The newly formed all-black power trio called themselves Band of Gypsys. At several concerts, Jimi Hendrix presented much of his new material, which he developed together with his new rhythm section in the direction of funk/soul, rhythm'n'blues and jazz. He fused this groovy foundation with his characteristic, explosive acid rock sound to create long and extended jams.

The album was recorded during two live concerts on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day 1969/70 at the legendary Fillmore East in New York. He was heavily criticised for departing from his established „Experience“ sound. Today, this LP is not only considered an important part of his musical legacy, but also one of the best live albums ever. The rare original English pressing is particularly sought after by collectors, as it was released there with a bizarre cover designed by Graphreaks, the so-called „Puppet Cover“. It shows puppets not of the band, but alongside Hendrix of Brian Jones, Bob Dylan and the famous radio DJ John Peel.