Van Halen releases ‘5150 (Expanded Edition)’ with unreleased 1986 New Haven concert recordings
Rock band Van Halen has released 5150 (Expanded Edition), a multi-format reissue celebrating the 40th anniversary of its landmark 1986 album.
The expanded collection is available as an LP/3CD/Blu-ray set and features a newly remastered version of 5150, along with rarities and more than 90 minutes of previously unreleased live recordings from an Aug. 27, 1986, performance at New Haven Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Originally released March 24, 1986, 5150 marked a turning point for the band as its first album with vocalist Sammy Hagar, alongside guitarist Eddie Van Halen, drummer Alex Van Halen, and bassist Michael Anthony. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, becoming the band’s first chart-topping release and continuing its streak of multi-platinum success.
The remastered album was sourced from the original master tapes and overseen by longtime engineer Donn Landee. The project also includes rare single edits and extended versions of tracks from the era.
The Blu-ray component features a newly upgraded high-definition version of Live Without a Net, the band’s 1986 concert film recorded during the same New Haven performance. The video, which achieved double-platinum status, includes live renditions of hits such as “Best of Both Worlds,” along with promotional videos for “Dreams” and “Why Can’t This Be Love.”
A remastered live version of “Best of Both Worlds” from Live Without a Net was also released on the band’s YouTube channel to coincide with the anniversary.
Recorded at Eddie Van Halen’s 5150 Studios in California, the original album produced hits including “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams” and “Best of Both Worlds.” It went on to earn six-times platinum certification in the United States and was supported by the successful 5150 Tour.
In addition to the deluxe set, standalone versions of 5150 (Expanded Edition) are available as a two-CD collection and a two-LP vinyl release in black and green variants.
Click here to save/order 5150 (Expanded Edition).
