Van Halen’s Unreleased Rehearsal Recordings Now Available on Vinyl

A new album featuring unreleased recordings from the legendary rock band Van Halen is now available for fans. Titled The 5150 Sessions, this collection showcases the iconic trio of Eddie, Alex, and Wolfgang Van Halen performing classic tracks without a vocalist. The recordings were made during rehearsals at Eddie Van Halen’s 5150 studio from November 2006 to January 2007.

The project is the result of writer and filmmaker Andrew Bennett, who documented the band during this significant period. This was a transitional time for Van Halen, occurring after longtime bassist Michael Anthony had departed, but before David Lee Roth rejoined the group for their reunion tour in 2007. The album is being offered on vinyl through the website vhsessions.com for $50.

Fans can expect a unique listening experience as the album features a selection of ten tracks that include popular songs such as “Unchained,” “Ain’t Talkin’ Bout Love,” and “Hot for Teacher.” Each track was recorded straight to the 5150 soundboard, offering an authentic glimpse into the band’s rehearsal process. The album description notes, “Eddie, Alex, and Wolfgang Van Halen were rehearsing full set lists twice a week, and since this was prior to the return of Dave, these recordings are performed with no singer.”

For many, this release presents a chance to experience Van Halen in a new light. One enthusiastic fan shared their excitement on social media, stating, “It’s for real. I got mine a few weeks ago and it’s really cool to hear the boys just playing together. Nice ‘fly on the wall’ sort of thing.”

The release of The 5150 Sessions offers an excellent opportunity for fans to appreciate Eddie Van Halen’s exceptional guitar skills and the chemistry between the band members. As anticipation grows, samples of each song are available on the website, allowing listeners to get a taste of what to expect from this unique album.

This archival release not only highlights the band’s musical prowess but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Van Halen. For fans and collectors alike, this album represents a rare addition to the band’s discography, capturing a pivotal moment in their musical journey.