Reviews (10)

1/3 REAL + 1/3 UNREAL + 1/3 SURREAL
What an amazing LIVE album!

You get an entire LIVE version of Misplaced Childhood on disc 2, along with 12 LIVE tracks, mostly from Clutching At Straws, on disc 1.

This LIVE album captures the technical precision of the studio versions, with the added emotional intensity of a LIVE atmosphere. In fact, this LIVE album makes the studio versions sound contrived and cheesy by comparison. This album simply sounds too good to be LIVE, but also way too good to have been recorded in some studio!

The Thieving Magpie is Marillion's best album, period.

It's a shame that people new to Marillion most often start with the albums Misplaced Childhood, Clutching At Straws, Afraid of Sunlight, and Brave. While these are all very good albums, none of them compares to The Thieving Magpie.

It's worth the money. If you're thinking about buying it, just buy it.

Truly, a great album and a great concert experience...
As a farewell present for fans, the double CD live collection of The Thieving Magpie is perhaps the closest to a Fish-era Marillion concert you'll ever be. This is the band during their heyday (at least in their peak album selling years) just as Fish was about to leave (or be dismissed, depending on who you ask). Here's a band known for its proximity to fans back when they performed to packed arenas. It is, without a doubt, a testament to a great band who, after releasing this album, went in two different directions with two very different results.

The two CDs are divided into a full live version of Misplaced Childhood (the band's greates achievement) and a collection of tracks from their three other albums. The results can also be divided into two groups: awesome and lacking.

Being able to enjoy Misplaced Childhood in its enterity is a true gift that the lads gave to us fans. This is one of those classic albums that transcends time and taste, and that should be around forever. It is also proof of the band's musical talents, both as composers and as performers. This is a 42+ minute track if you think about it!

The first disc starts off with an intro of Rossini's 'La Gazza Ladra' that segues into one of the bands best loved tracks, Slainte Mhath and then visits a varied collection of hits that are taken from different concerts. This disc could have been somewhat better, not because of the quality of the tracks presented, but because of the tracks missing from it. Granted, the band had already released Real to Reel and Brief Encounter, so a few of the better known pieces of Marillion's music was already out in live versions, but still, a better way to say goodbye and thanks to the fans would have been to include Forgotten sons, Assassing, Garden Party and/or Market Square Heroes.

Still, this is an album that should be owned not only by Marillion fans, but also by every and anyone who loves great music.

Energizing live performance!
I have always admired Marillion's live albums because of their intensity, and among them The Thieving Magpie is probably the best. It shows how a band can transform studio music into a true expression of the human soul. It shows that it is possible to enhance perfection.
All of the bands member perform at their best, seamlessly adding strength and warmth to the music. Their level of energy and coordination is untypical of live performances. I particularly enjoy Ian Mosley's faster and unrestrained drumming, as well as Fish's voice which adds tremendous sensuality to the music. I have to admit that because the album is a compilation of several performances there are some discrepancies in the sound quality. However I don't think this is reason enough not to give this masterpiece a five star rating.
The selection of songs in the first disc contains some of Marillion's best. My personal favorites are Slainte Mhath, Fugazi and Script for a Jester's Tear. If you are already familiar with the studio songs you will undoubtedly be blown away by their emotional live versions. The second disc contains an equally intense and complete live performance of Misplaced Childhood that sounds even more natural than the original album.
The Thieving Magpie was Fish's last performance with the band. They were never the same after that and probably never will. It's a farewell to one of music's finest bands and as such is hard to listen to it and not feel that they have left and empty space that may never be filled again.

A great tribute to the Jester`s epoque!
...One of my favorites musical hobbies is buying live albums because at stage you can judge the quality of the musicians without any chance of further corrections. The Thieving Magpie is a great tribute to FISH when he was Marillion`s main vocalist. CD number one contains great performances of Slainte Mhath, Chasea Monday, Jigsaw, Punch + Judy and Sugar Mice. Script for a Jester`s tear is good but not good enough like Hogarth version included in the offcial bootleg Live in Caracas,1992. CD 2 is the live version of Misplaced Childhood that I consider suverb and uncomparable,better than the studio vertion. This CD covers one of the greatest moments of this megagroup.

Great for live Misplaced Childhood, but....
Considering this could have been the ultimate live experience (Marillion being one of my favorite bands), I think I may have set standards too high for The Thieving Magpie. La Gazza Ladra is a two-disc set featuring many fabulous songs from Fish-era Marillion, and a second disc sporting a complete, uninterrupted performance of the entire album, Misplaced Childhood.

My complaints fall squarely on the first disc. Since it was assembled from a number of different shows, there are major inconsistencies in sound quality, ambience, and musical energy from the band. Without the feel of Fish's onstage charisma and the tense chemistry between the band members, many of the songs feel like flat recitals of the studio versions. Live albums must do their best to try and preserve the experience of being at the show, but for much of disc 1 that experience is lost. However, _some_ of the songs here slay the studio originals. "Script for a Jester's Tear," which is one of my favorites, is tremendously more intense here, as is "Incommunicado," the big single from Clutching At Straws. "Chelsea Monday" feels a bit slower so the band can better explore the elaborate emotional textures of the song, and it's better as a result. "White Russian" also gains a great deal of power in the live delivery. Parts of "Fugazi" are likewise more intense, especially the ending.

Why a Marillion fan should really want to own this is to have disc 2, where Misplaced Childhood is performed. What is already an intensely emotional work of music is in some ways more so thanks to the added vivacity of the live setting. They capture the feeling of the studio version, support it with topnotch technical precision, and slightly increased power on Fish's behalf. Rothery's solos are sometimes embellished, which is good. More of Rothery's guitar playing can only be a good thing.

A good live release, but it's no replacement for the real thing. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A benchmark for live to radio compilations
This compilation is, at the time of writing, the best part of ten years old. And, in my humble opinion, it has never been bettered. Production quality is first rate, performances are almost flawless and the mix of music is spot on. You and yours can't fail to be sucked in by this one. John Cale's first poem blending seemlessly into Tori Amos doing 'Silent all these years', Beck's 'Mexico' is hilarious and wry even after all this time, The Modern's just don't want to end and you won't want them to, Lindsay Buckingham comes up with a magnificent arrangement for an old Fleetwood Mac tune (since copied badly by The Dixie Chicks) and a just wonderful ode to Chet Baker to finish. This is a CD that makes much of modern chill out laughable and shows what can be acheived by a group of people who really love music. It is a primer for the rest of the Rare on Air series and a great place to begin. Grab this while it is still in print.

best compilation i own
i originally bought it for "never goin back again" an acoustic version by lindsey buckingham. but there are about seven other really strong songs on the album. and how they tracked the selections is something you could tell a lot of thought and time was put into. songs in general flow one into the next beautifully, especially track twelve into thirteen. highly reccomend to anyone considering.

An excellent document of the best of the early 1990's
Rare On Air Vol 1. is the first in a series of 5 live compilation cd's from southern california's KCRW. "Morning Becomes Eclectic" hosted by Chris Douridas was possibly the greatest music radio show of it's time in all of the U.S. On any given morning from 9am to noon, live performers from the likes of Beck to Joni Mitchell to Patti Smith show up to turn in intimate and often startlingly great performances. This first edition is the best so far and features excellent songs by John Cale, Michael Penn, and Tori Amos. After Douridas left the station for a new job at Dreamworks, the morning show fell flat with new DJ Nic Harcourt. Some say it's picking up steam again and luckily the whole world can tune in via the internet. The first 3 in the series are all worthwile and this particular addition shows why KCRW is a groundbreaking music radio station. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Though probably of zero interest to anyone not already a fan, this set definitely has its virtues. The now-legendary Lubbock group lasted less than a year and played about a dozen gigs while releasing one barely distributed album before Joe Ely, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, and Butch Hancock split up to pursue solo careers. Yet their recent reunion spurned enough interest to force to the surface this rather drab recording of an Austin show. What's most apparent is that this was Jimmie Dale's band--Ely gets minimal leads, Hancock none--and perhaps rightly so. Gilmore turns in a stirring cowboy rendition of Sam Cooke's "Bring It On Home to Me," for one. And as that title indicates, this was an eclectic band for its era; they were into songs, period, and they went all over the musical map (folk, honky-tonk, country blues, Cajun, modern singer-songwriter) for 'em. The fact that they hardly cut any of these on their studio album or subsequent solo efforts makes this a bonanza for their already established following. --John Morthland ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A perfect portrait of a real hard-country Texas bar band.
What an amazing document of this legendary alt-country band, live in action during its faint, glimmering, short-lived first incarnation. These recordings were apparently made in front of an audience of less than a dozen people, the sum total of the patrons of a teensy Texas watering hole known as the Knite... You'd never know it was a near-empty room, though, from the intensity with which the threesome tackled each and every song. They were clearly a powerful, powerfully earnest band, covering oldies and adding new tunes to the hard country canon... These soundcheck recordings are remarkable for a variety of reasons... First off, songwriter Butch Hancock doesn't sing at all, while Jimmie Dale Gilmore was the main vocalist, surprising in itself, but made even more remarkable when you hear Joe Ely's vocals cut through on a couple of tunes -- Ely, the growling, grizzled road-warrior-to-be, singing with a high, youthful, almost nervous voice, singing beautifully, with a sincerity that matched the music. Although the studio album that came out of this group's first year was a bit on the reserved side, these live recordings are passionate and compelling: this is what a real 'billy band sounded like, back in the earliest days of the "outlaw" era. And it was mighty fine. Highly recommended! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

the wagon still rockin & rollin along at breakneck speed
Well i never--after thinking the Caper couldnt top the live experience created on the Gimme Gimmes awesome Barmitzvah bash, he gets hold of that microphone again and proves otherwise !.With the incomparable back catalogue at their disposal, Big Joe , Big Bitch and the boys just roll out the classics one after another (and still find time for a little drop of reggae inbetween AND a great singing cameo by Leon on "Coconut" as well). The Hollywood crowd are treated to timeless punk chestnuts such as Violins, After You My Friend, Razorburn, May 16th, Bombs Away and Stokin' The Neighbours--the list goes on. The Wagon play with such great energy, and the love every minute of it just as much as the crowd, and leading them throughout the extravaganza is the finest frontman in the rock n roll cosmos--Joey Cape. The man is a true colossus, a true demi-god (pocket sized version obviously !)--a man who can do everything (sing ,strum that guitar, bang the drums and in his spare time produce and promote bands AND run his own record label. He is quite simply the greatest (forget Elvis and other such impostors), the Caper is the man. I cannot wait for the next studio album from the Wagon (building further on Blaze, which was a belter and well worth the wait), and also cannot wait for the next tour of England (as i for one will be right at the front paying homage to the greatest band in the universe).

Best live in a dive yet!
I already own the previous six Live in a Dive records and would have to say that this one is the best!

The guitar playing is great, drumming is amazing, Joey Cape's voice is legendary and the comic in the booklet is funny too.

Good first LAGWAGON cd. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

You know you want it.
If you haven't purchased this one yet, it's probably about time. You've heard these songs on the radio,the internet, possibly even on Johnny Carson. This is a classic performance on a decade old CD single, it's impossible to tell how much longer it will be available; and the CD sounds better than anything that you've taped or streamed from the Richard Blade interview.

Morrissey with a bit of flavor
For years Morrissey had done most of his albums with studio musicians sort of giving every album a bit of freshness. I remember when word came out about Morrissey doing a few tracks at KROQ I stayed home from school so I could be one of the first to catch it. It was so much better then I had anticipated. Not only were the songs incredible they were done with some flavor. The sound of the stand up bass with the rockabilly twang of guitar backed Morrissey as he always should have been. Thus beggining his musical conquest with the boys in the band that went on to tour along with the somewhat bizzare femanist voice of Phrank. This is one album that should be held as a classic because you will never hear Morrissey like this.

A must have for any MOZ fan
This CD includes the rare recording of "Love Life," the first Morrissey song to capture my heart. It is definately a must have for any Morrissey fan.

Be happy
Morrissey was obviously in a good mood on the day of this recording. Morrissey's vocals, filled with his unmatched combination of angst, desperation, and joy, hearken back to the nostalgic heyday of Morrissey and The Smiths. The musicianship is superb. "Sing your Life" invites the listener to start dancing on the spot for only the joy to be alive. "My Love Life" is played with Morrissey's reserved abandonment that fans cherish. The recordings are all unique and unrepeatable gems that deserve to be part of every fan's collection.

Smashingly good Morrissey EP
The only thing that I would change about this EP if I could would be to make it longer. Morrissey's renditions of these three great songs of his left me wanting to hear more of the same!

Most EPs and CD singles have only one or two songs that you can't get on a regular album. "Morrissey at KROQ" has three different versions of three of his songs, versions that you can't find anywhere else. The style is unlike anything else that you will hear in Morrissey's other work. "KROQ" has a very old-style rock sound to it, with an old stand-up string bass on the bass line, while the other musicians are busy with newer harmonies. Especially on "Sing Your Life," the tempo is quite upbeat.

This EP really gives us a side of Moz that you don't hear much of outside of his concerts. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

All for the love of rock'n'roll
Although none of the best-known NY bands are heard here (oh, the record contracts flying around CBGB's in 1976 ...) cult favorites like Tuff Darts (Robert Gordon), Mink DeVille, and the Shirts sound like they're having a great time. This collection, recorded over three nights in July, 1976, shows the New York rock scene going in all different directions. It's surprising how "radio-friendly" most of this music seems now. In the days of multi-platinum Peter Frampton and Fleetwood Mac, though, Manster's sped-up cover of the Yardbirds' "Over Under Sideways Down" was absolutely radical. Imagine that. And though it's true there's no real missed opportunities here, its a terrific snapshot of a time, a place, and an energy that's likely not to happen again.

A typical evening of music at CBGBs
Actually, Dale, some of the performers did go further than this album. Mink DeVille may never have become a household name, but the band and its leader, Willy DeVille, released a slew of terrific albums. DeVille still records a new album every couple of years with exceptional quality stuff on every outing. Tuff Darts had a pretty decent first release that got loads of airplay in NYC, but the band's lead singer on Live at CBGBs was none other than Robert Gordon who spawned the rebirth of 50s rock and roll revival bands like the Stray Cats, the second coming of Link Wray, and many others. Gordon released several very strong albums and was a real critical favorite at the time. The quality of recording here is fair at best, but the youthful energy pours out of every song. This is a document of late 70s NYC New Wave which, at its best, was every bit as good as the British counterparts of Elvis Costello, Graham Parker, et al. Would've been nice to get a couple of other CBGB bands who did make it bigger on this disk --Blondie, Ramones to name a couple. Work the money, though.

Close, but could be better
This CD is an attempt at the collection of the CBGB's scene of the late 70's emerging punk/new wave music. Unfortunately, none of the bands represented made it beyond this album. You get great hits like "We Deliver" and "Slash", but overall the musicianship leaves something to be desired, though the emotion is there. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Every city should have a radio show as fresh and intelligent as Morning Becomes Eclectic from KCRW in Santa Monica. Unencumbered by narrow genre classifications, the show has built up an audience for left-of-center singer-songwriters, art-pop bands, world beatniks, jazz fusionists, and hip-hoppers. All are featured on this compilation of live, on-air performances. While the previous four-volume KCRW series, Rare on the Air, may have featured more legends (including Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits, and Joni Mitchell), and hence more consistent material, the sense of discovery and adventure of this latest sampling is seductive. The strongest cuts tend to be the most stripped down: Afro-pop chanteuse Angelique Kidjo's a cappella "Blewu," Beth Orton's tingling voice and guitar performance on "Sugar Boy," Mercury Rev's Velvet Underground-meets-the-Band "Opus 40," and P.J. Harvey's eerie dirge "Is This Desire?" --Roy Kasten ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Lyle Lovett's "Bears"
The simple performance of Lyle Lovett and his guitar doing
Steven Fromholz' "Bears" written in 1974 is why I bought this CD
after hearing it on the air at KCRW. Great energy, in a
special knowing way ! The other music is great too, by far
KCRW's best compilation. Stunningly good studio quality recordings
for live radio show performances, which they all are. You'll love it !

Hypnotic (perhaps to a fault)
Of the 5 CDs released by KCRW, this is my favorite. They are all very good, but "Morning Becomes Eclectic" has more of my favorite music. The covers by Mehldau and Martyn are amazing, as is PJ Harvey's performance. I was also pleasantly surprised by "All I Need." And for those of you who prefer something a little more firmiliar, Semisonic and Sixpence None The Richer add their two cents. All together this is a great record. If there is one flaw, it is that the songs are all on the soft side, which means there is always the risk of being lulled to sleep or into some kind of trance. Not that that's a bad thing -- and considering all of this music was recorded on a morning show, it's understandable. I highly reccomend the whole series.

A good group of songs.
I purchased the disc mainly for the Air song (which is great) - standout tracks are by Beth Orton, Cake, PJ Harvey (real good version of Is This Desire?), Brad Mehldau and Morcheeba. A nice treat is the song 'Glory Box' sung by John Martyn - the song is a cover of the Portishead tune by the same name. Get it when you are craving a new disc - it will suffice.

Extremely Creative!
It has so many different songs that truely make it an eclectic blend! It's definitly is one of the best CD's that collect varios artists. It's probably the only CD of my collection that I can play any time of the day; any day of the week. ... Read more

Album Description

The Blasters emerged from the Los Angeles rock scene in the late 1970s. Led by brothers Phil and Dave Alvin, their contemporary twist on America’s not-so-distant past set new standards for American roots rock. Frequent shows with fellow Angelenos X helped earn the band legions of loyal fans whose numbers continue to swell today. In August 2003, the original members reunited (once again) with both Alvin brothers intact. Captured on their first DVD and this companion CD, the set showcases 19 tracks, including staples like "Marie Marie," "Border Radio" and "I’m Shaking." Joining them onstage are Sonny Burgess, Billy Boy Arnold, and surviving members of The Calvanes and The Medallions – artists who have all played an important and influential role in the band’s history. The Blasters Live! Going Home documents the band nearly 25 years after its formation. They’ve never sounded better. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Exellent come back cd, recorded in Santa Ana, CA
I love local bands from the most beautiful place on earth Orange County! This is one of OC's best rockabilly bands, and they sound as good if not better then they ever have, an extra added bonus is hearing Billy Boy Arnold's duet with them, his voice is so "rockabilly 1950's", and of course he really was a recording artist from that period, and hasn't lost a thing. This concert sounds like it could have been recorded in 1955, I mean this music sounds like the stuff from Sun Records! A great fun set of lively rockabilly and occasional jump blues, by a super tight swingin' band, recorded at the famed Galexy theatere in Santa Ana!

The Blasters are back!
A blistering live set, recorded in the Santa Ana, California's Galaxy Theatre, in the band's old Southern California stomping grounds... Phil Alvin spits out his lyrics like he wants to set the mic on fire, while Dave whips through some dazzling guitar licks... These guys may be old geezers, but they sure haven't mellowed out!

Awesome CD!! Blasters Forever!
Just had to post a few comments about this. When i heard that the Blaster's first and only concert video would be released on DVD and CD i just had to go out and get em both.. all you blasters fans out there will know that these guys are all about playing live! - well, the CD & DVD totally captures the energy and atmosphere... and if you never got to hear em play live... u just have to get this !! - The companion DVD that comes with the CD is just as awesome in it own capacity... Both the CD and DVD feature performances of "Blasters" classics such as "American Music", "Marie, Marie" and "Border Radio". They are also joined on stage by rockabilly guitarist Sonny Burgess, Chicago blues great Billy Boy Arnold and the surviving members of the California doo wop legends The Calvanes and The Medallions.

go buy this now!!

adios

Better then i thought it would be.
Here is the truth, this is a great dvd. The sound quality is excellent, the picture very sharp, the Blasters as a group materiel is a bit stronger then the seven tracks with there invited guests.I was not sure to i wanted to take a chance on this dvd at first, but i am glad i did.I believe it was put together by the former Rhino people, it is a top notch product. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Finally, an over-the-top live album intended to satisfy all of you MxPx fans out there. After ultra-high-energy studio affairs like Life in General and Slowly Going the Way of the Buffalo, At the Show is chock full of live versions of MxPx classics such as "I'm OK, You're OK," "Chick Magnet," and "The Downfall of Western Civilization." Produced by the Descendents' Bill Stevenson, this Washington-based trio blaze through 23 (count 'em) uptempo anthems that, while still derivative of faux Brit punks like Green Day, never fail to deliver the punk-rock goods. With a moderately rousing and extremely accurate version of the Ramones's "KKK," MxPx show that they've certainly done their punk homework, but you have to be a dedicated follower to find this collection absolutely essential. --Mitch Meyers ... Read more

Reviews (60)

this might as well be a greatest hits album
I am impressed. The entire CD is listenable, MXPX is great live, Mike is amazing. With a lot of their songs off of TEENAGE POLITICS and SLOWLY GOING THE WAY OF THE BUFFALO this is a very punky CD. A lot more punk than their newer THE EVER PASSING MOMENT, which came afterwards. Twenty three tracks... that says it's a punk album right there. I love their cover of the Ramones' "KKK Took My Baby Away." Fast and great for MXPX. And the CD overall: amazing, packed with fast paced punky songs. Opens up with a fast punky song, ends with, (of course they had to get this one in there), "Punk Rawk Show." The crowd doesn't take away from the band. This right here might as well be twenty three tracks of MXPX's greatest songs.

MxPx Compilations Rock
I don't have any of MxPx's CDs with new music, but I have both compilations( At the Show and Ten Years and Running).They are both awesome. This CD starts as it ends:with one of their most popular songs(start-Tomorrow's Another Day,end-Punk Rawk Show).It follows with two fast-paced songs which I consider as some of the best on the CD. There are,however, three things which detract from this CD. First, if you have their other CDs, the only new song will be the cover of the Ramones' KKK Took My Baby Away(where they improved on the original).Second:Chick Magnet.Everyone I talk to that listens to MxPx seems to love that song(probably why it is on the CD), but I don't know why it is so popular.Third, there is a stretch in the middle with about three straight shouting songs.I really don't care for shouting songs and don't think MxPx does them very well. Despite the negatives, the 18 or 19 quality tracks make this CD a very good buy, especially if you don't own their other CDs. This is very good work from one of the few Christian punk bands out there(and the best Christian band out there)and one of the better punk bands out there, Christian or secular.
Here are what I consider as the best songs on the CD:
5.Sometimes You Have to Ask Yourself
4.KKK Took My Baby Away
3.Under Lock and Key
2.Andrea
1...

INVITATION TO UNDERSTANDING

Good live CD!!!
Of course nothing beats actually seeing them live, but the recording is decent. It doesn't really capture their power though. You see MXPX does their best with their older stuff, and if it were up to me they'd make one that would top Slowly Going the Way of the Buffalo or Pokinatcha, but sadly they decided to go and produce boring pop-punk stuff, but this CD will remind you of what they use to be. A definate must buy!!!

MXPX
Well i am a punk rock fan. so in that respect i have yet to be disappointed with this cd. however, i could have sworn that i bought this cd in the "Christian" rock section. much to my dismay it mentions the word God only ONCE on the entire album. to that extent i have been severly disappointed in this cd. after all i purchased it on the grounds that i would be listening to a Christian punk rock band. beyond that i truly enjoy the gritty sound of this cd. furthermore it offers clean listening that i can listen to with other Christians without offending them.(something that would be highly impossible with the per se, the clash, Ramones, or SP) i would recommend that you not buy this cd unless you are already a punk rock fan. if you happen to be new to the genre i would recommend that you steer clear.

MXPX rocks live!!!!
For all of you seasoned mxpx fans out there, this CD is what you are looking for! It has some of the best mxpx tracks around, and it's all of there faster songs. Mike Hererra (lead singer) mixes perfect bass riffs with and incredible song writing talent. Some bands trade speed for lyrical qaulity. For mxpx, however, that is not the case. Another treat for you true punk fans is the cover of the ramones "KKK took my baby away" which suits the band well and I prefer this version to the original! It has all of there greatest songs : Party, My House, Be there, I'm OK you're OK, and middlname! If you are looking to get in on mxpx, this cd is a perfect representation of what mxpx is all about, and for you seasoned listeners of mxpx, this is a blessing to your collection. Buy this CD without DELAY! ... Read more

Amazon.com

This double live CD, recorded with the Dukes on their tour supporting Earle's 2002 album Jerusalem, takes its title from "John Walker's Blues," Earle's song about John Walker Lindh, "the American Taliban"--a song that got him Dixie Chick-ed off adult contemporary and country rock stations across the U.S. Subtitled "an audio documentary," the album coincides with the release of a feature film that follows Earle as he tours, mounts a play, and campaigns against the death penalty. Earle talks quite a bit between songs; his monologues are affable, entertaining, and leftist. Along with WoodyGuthrie and D.Boon, Earle's one of those rare musical activists who understands that successful political songs must have music that's exceptional and politics that are personal. There are extraordinary renditions of some of his finest soapbox songs, including "John Walker," "Harlan Man," "Christmas in Washington," and "Billy Austin." A couple of tunes that sounded stiff on Jerusalem--"Ashes to Ashes" and "Conspiracy Theory"--receive far better, and more rocking, treatment here, while "Copperhead Road" is turned into a Scots-Irish reel, which works surprisingly well. The highlight is a take-no-prisoners cover of Nick Lowe's "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace Love & Understanding." --Mike McGonigal ... Read more

Reviews (28)

A solid live album with a great Townes cover!
I have to throw in my two cents worth regarding Earle's "John Walker Blues". Contrary to what some of the critics here have stated, "John Walker Blues" is NOT over-simplified or anywhere akin to the jingoistic dreck put out by other "country artists" like Toby Keith.

Politics aside, I think it's crucial to remember that it takes a sophisticated writer to 1) humanize a demonized figure, 2) create a complicated sympathetic character, and 3) attempt to understand the point of view of characters we often don't relate to. To do so is not to simplify. In fact, it complicates the whole affair by forcing us to consider the HUMAN involved in the story.

Steve Earle has made it very clear that he doesn't support what John Walker Lindh did. Rather, his song is an attempt at UNDERSTANDING why someone like Lindh might do such a thing. It's easy to jump on the simplistic jingoistic wagon that Toby Keith did. It's not so easy to hold the mirror up and consider how we (as a culture) might be implicated in his tragic turn.

And while you might disagree with Earle's musings over what might have turned Lindh away from the American way of life, it's another matter to write off his approach as simplistic. Earle is pointing out that life is not so neatly divided into black and white, or right and wrong. Instead he points out that sometimes the very things we say we want are what destroys us in the end.

That said, this album is a must-have for Steve Earle fans due to the incendiary versions of "Ashes to Ashes", "The Unrepetant", "Amerkia (V 6.0)", "Jerusalem", and the infamous "John Walker Blues"; the short acoustic bluegrass set that includes an absolutely rocking electric version of "Harlan Man"; the singer-songwriter heavy disc two with a wonderful cover of Townes' "Rex's Blues" as part of a medley with the Townes eulogy "Ft. Worth Blues"; his five minute introduction to "Christmas in Washington" which actually adds to the power of the song; and his son Justin's respectable studio recording of an original tune.

This is a great album for the already converted fans who are interested in getting rawer versions of some of his more recent work as well as some rare nuggets. Casual listeners will want to stick to the studio albums!

instant classic
Steve Earle continues his remarkable winning streak with this live album. There are things you can quibble about: It could have been longer, and there are a few songs that I would have personally liked to have heard ("Taneytown," for example). But, it's hard to complain about a two-disc live album from America's most vital singer-songwriter, on his most eventful and controversial tour ever, the latter aspect which just serves to accentuate the urgency of Earle's socio-political muse.

An Earle concert is like getting at least three different bands (the loud one, the quiet one, and the bluegrass one) in one, and this album reflects that. It all fits together beautifully. Of course, Steve does his (mostly political) monologues as well, but they are funny and to the point, while overall he keeps the focus squarely on the music. And, that part is just terrific--the songs are all worthy alternatives to their studio versions, and in some cases (The Unrepentant, Ashes to Ashes, Billy Austin, Conspiracy Theory, to name a few) they are marked improvements.

The record closes with a furious take on "What's so funny 'bout peace love and understanding," and a beautiful little tune called "The Time you Waste" by Steve Earle's son Justin. The whole thing is great, intelligent fun from start to finish.

5 Stars for Guitar Town, Lose a Star for Each One Since
Which should place this one into negative stardom...Oh boy, saw him live in NYC in 1997 and it was a disaster. With his talent long since AWOL, he's turned to politics that puts him in favor with the elitists in the recording industry, academia, mainstream newspapers, and well-to-do socialists. Siding with the political issues of agenda setters in the mass media is not brave, folks, and don't pretend Earle is singing for the common man. I've got two words to replace the respect I had for Earle circa 1986: Gary Allan! He's the real deal, and someone who is far more melodic, accessible, and fun. Dwight Yoakam also stands as a lesson to Earle in how authenticity matters.

Preachin' to the choir
The problem that seems to plague Steve Earle is that he is not nearly as clever and smart as he seems to believe he is. Unfortunately, most of his fans, especially the newer ones that probably think 'Guitar Town' is a cute little cover song during his set, lap up his misinformed diatribes and sermons on stage as gospel truth while those there for the music roll their eyes. So, Steve read a couple books about Islam and Judaism and wants to tell you about it...he's still against the death penalty....he's an advocate for free speech, although I've been to two shows where he asked people to leave when they asked, 'what about the victims?' during one of his anti-death penalty speeches. Earle is no longer a singer-songwriter, he's an activist that just happens to write songs.

'Jerusalem' was a spotty album at best, and the material does no better when presented live. 'Amerika 6.0' sounds like an outtake from 'Transcendental Blues', a warmed over and slower 'All Of My Life'. And that is the issue with all of Steve Earle's recent releases, they are uninspired and tired, like he's trying to channel John Mellencamp during his 'Uh-Huh' period or something.

While I don't agree with Earle's politics (as I stated earlier, Earle has no original thoughts or insight, just what he's read and overheard makes it into sound bytes and his songs), and he's a hypocrite when it comes to free speech, I just wish he would go back to writing great songs. I suppose that's what disappoints me the most about Earle these days. Listening to Steve Earle now is like watching a once great athlete fail on the field and come up short. It's sad, it's heartbreaking, but hey, we can all say, 'Remember when...?'

Excellent
This CD is well worth the price. it's one of the best live sets you could even hope to hear him play, much less own. Perfect mix of rock, blues,bluegrass (real bluegrass),and country. All done with motivated speeches and cuthroat honesty. A must have. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

All hail Sterling and Moe
Lou Reed and John Cale didn't need the short-lived Velvets reunion in '93. They had already reconciled (and clashed again after) with "Songs for Drella." The VU reunion, if anything, tarnished their reputations--Cale far less than Reed, however. For the American fans who couldn't attend the brief tour, this live album is a good document of why it probably shouldn't have happened, at least as far as the two "stars" are concerned--even though no VU fan wasn't curious to hear it, and hoping beyond hope that the magic would still be there. It was in fits and starts, but the "recycle the hits" approach and Reed's inability or unwillingness to sing all but a few of the songs decently spoiled it.

However, the album is worth it for what it did for the unsung, quiet heroes of the Velvet Undergound: guitarist Sterling Morrison and drummer Maureen Tucker. Despite being the pillars of the group's rhythmic sound in the '60s, their contribution was always undervalued by their own modesty and the dismal recording quality of the VU's original albums. You could never really hear the true power of their playing, which was the bedrock that made Reed's and Cale's explosive interaction possible. Well, on "Live MCMXCIII" you can finally hear them clearly, and the primal power is still there, undiminished despite 25-plus years on the sidelines. The tour and album also provided the two with some long overdue financial reward for their groundbreaking work. Reed and Cale didn't need the money, but who could begrudge Sterling and Moe finally seeing some payoff? (Sadly, Sterling would not live much longer after this was released.)

So think of this album as a worthy contribution to the VU catalog, if nothing else for the dignified and intense contributions of the amazing Sterling Morrison and Maureen Tucker.

Unnecessary
I'm sorry, but this album is not needed. I love the Velvets as much as anybody, but this album pales in comparison to any of the original live albums. I want my VU albums to be groundbreaking! This is nowhere near that. Just your usual rock and roll. The superb VU atmosphere and sound is not present here. Who cares about the sound quality, if the music is not as good as it was? Go for the old stuff instead.

Great Live Recording
This is a great live recording of the VU!
A few reviewers have called it uninspired. They think that the band should sound as raw and raucus as they did in 1968. Guess what? We all get a little bit older and a little bit slower.
I think all four of the VU pulled off a great (albeit short) reunion. The video of the same is excellent viewing/listening. I'd love for the video to be released on DVD.

This CD came out shortly before the late, great FZ died and after I listened to all my Zappa discs I played this set over and over to get me through. Kinda weird to rely on the VU to get me over some Zappa blues, but it did!

Enjoy this CD set. Don't buy the single disc version. The long "Hey, Mr. Rain" is worth the price alone.

Average
Hmm. Not bad, not good. But the hidden tracks are garbage. They made some good songs worse. There are better live VU albums than this. An unnecessary album.

Sovereign
Documentation of the three reunion concerts of 1993 in Paris. The Velvet Underground sound equally well as 25 years ago, only this time the songs are not followed by embarrassed silence, but by excited applause. Most of all I like „Sweet Jane", „Some Kinda Love" and the great „Coyote", the only new song that the for a short time reunited Velvet Underground played. There is also a video with the same title of these concerts. Likewise recommendable. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Neil Finn's restless creative spirit didn't lounge during Split Enz's and Crowded House's two decades of achievement. In this live recording (culled from five shows at New Zealand's St. James Theatre in April 2001), Finn not only pauses to take stock in his rich career, he often generously shares the spotlight with an impressive array of guest musicians (brother Tim, guitarist Johnny Marr of the Smiths and Electronic, violinist/vocalist Lisa Germano, Radiohead's Phil Selway and Ed O'Brien, and Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder) who've come to back him and express a little fandom of their own. The results are gratifying cross-pollinations: Vedder sharing vocals on Enz's "Stuff and Nonsense," "Take a Walk," and a jagged version of "I See Red"; Finn tipping his hat to Morrissey on the Smiths' "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" after Marr's jangly "Down on the Corner"; and sharing an always-welcome harmony with Tim Finn on material from their various projects together. If there's a criticism to be made, it's that Finn occasionally shortchanges himself here. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (32)

a good friend
Have you ever met someone for the first time and you feel instantly comfortable with them? Like you have know them all your life. Well, that's the feeling I get when I hear a Neil Finn song. For that matter and song from the entire Finn brother career (Split Enz, Crowded House, Etc.). While always being new and fresh, I am always how easily the songs flow through me and fit my mood.

On 7 Worlds Neil brings some truly old friends, (Johnny Marr,Phil Selway and Ed O'Brien,Eddie Vedder, Lisa Germano, his son Liam, and ofcourse Tim) all adding to the warmth and fun of this live CD.

Along with the Neil Finn songs we get some from our buddies, Johnny Marr's "Down on the corner," Lisa's "Paper Doll" and who can forget the dead-on Smith's classic "There is a light...."

So buy this CD and hang out with some old buddies.

The MagniFINNcent Seven
Every once in a LIVEtime a group of musicians "collide" and something special happens. Such is the case with this stellar collection of eclectic talent, who are led by the artistic genius of Neil Finn and sound like they've been playing together forever. The best from Neil's two solo efforts, "Try Whistling This" and "One All," are well-represented and rival his Crowded House catalog. But what makes this album shine is the creativity and generosity with which Finn weaves and distributes the playlist, and how these choices imbue the album with a remarkable flow and vibrancy. Three Split Enz numbers are magically resurrected and rejuvenated: Eddie Vedder spearheads Neil's galvanized "Take a Walk" off the 1982 album "Time and Tide"; and Vedder takes over on two Tim Finn-penned songs from 1979's "Frenzy," sensitively rendering the achingly beautiful "Stuff and Nonsense," followed by a ripping, raucous "I See Red." Former Smiths ax-man Johnny Marr (hey, he's got a voice!) rocks his own "Down On the Corner," and Neil's right at home with with the Marr/Morrissey classic "There is a Light That Never Goes Out." Lisa Germano dims the lights with her plaintive, touching "Paper Doll." The brothers Finn share the mike on several numbers, with Neil & Tim harmonizing on the superb, previously unreleased "Edible Flowers." Neil closes the show on acoustic with an audience sing-a-long to one of the greatest songs ever written, "Don't Dream It's Over." The perfect finale to an exceptional live collaboration.

Great after a few listens
Upon first listen to this album I was fairly dissapointed. Initially, the vocals on the One All songs seemed weak and I didnt care for the work of Eddie Vedder on several other tracks. However, after a few more listens this album has become a favorite. Neil Finn's voice has an incredible pure resonance live and it shines brighter than any of the other vocalists who are not as strong. Vedder's renditions of Stuff and Nonsense and Parting Ways are surprising gems after a few listens. The Finn standouts are the cover of There is a Light That Never Goes Out (even better than the original), She Will Have Her Way, and Weather With You.

Recommended.

Seven Worlds Collide
Neil Finn first broke onto the music scene in the 70's as one of the founding members of Split Enz, one of New Zealand's most successful pop/rock/punk bands, and garnered worldwide attention with minor hits "I Got You" and "I See Red." Split Enz, as their name suggests, eventually split ends and Neil went on to form Crowded House in the 80's. Neil enjoyed more success with Crowded House and the hit singles "Don't Dream It's Over," "Something So Strong," and "Weather With You." Crowded House eventually became a little too cramped as Neil and his brother Tim disbanded the group to focus more on their solo work and brotherly collaborations. Try Whistling This, Neil's first proper solo album, shyed away from the Split Enz and Crowded House material as Finn began to take a darker edge with his songwriting in tunes like "She Will Have Her Way," "Sinner," and "Addicted." Despite much critical success, as is par for the Finn family, Whistling failed to take off commercially in the states. Never one to take a day off, Neil promptly went back to work on crafting One Nil, his sophomore solo release. Once again released to critical acclaim in Europe, Australia, and Asia, American record execs at Sony/Work didn't hear another "Don't Dream It's Over" on there. As the Work label was collapsing and Sony was cleaning it's roster of established acts, Neil went back into the studio to re-work One Nil into One All - partly due to label pressures, partly due to his perfectionistic tendencies. The traditional record label stories follow leaving Neil with a refurbished version of an album which was already fine to begin with, but without a company to release it in the States. In steps Nettwerk, a Canadian-based artist-friendly label that was for all intensive purposes founded on the international success of Sarah McLachlan, to release One All. Always the showman, Neil continued to tour throughout all this to sold-out audiences across the world culminating in 7 Worlds Collide, an experiment as he says to form a band of his friends and some of the greatest musicians today, play a week of shows, and disband before things start going bad.

Neil's constant touring resulted in the all-star 7 Worlds Collide shows, recorded in Neil's native New Zealand. From the One Nil/One All sessions, Germano and Steinberg return, this time accompanied with Radiohead's Ed O'Brien and Phil Selway, the Smiths' Johnny Marr, Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, brother Tim Finn, and son Liam Finn and his popular Kiwi rock band, Betchadupa. Highlights include an acoustic version of Crowded House's "Fall At Your Feet" and "Don't Dream It's Over." Eddie Vedder and Betchadupa shine on the Split Enz classic, "I See Red," taking it into new territory. Lisa Germano's bewitching "Paper Doll" and "Cry Wolf" would give anyone goosebumps while Neil does a fine job with the Smiths' classic "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out." Try Whistling This's "Loose Tongue" has one of the most memorable bass lines this author has ever heard, and the live rendtion of "She Will Have Her Way" brings out the fun and energy inherent in the original. Guiding us through all this is Neil's traditional Kiwi charm and wit which is unmatched by any live performer today. If Neil Finn considered 7 Worlds Collide an experiment, and the cd/dvd of the shows his published results, someone fund this sonic scientist again.

One of the best live albums I have heard
This live album is a awesome listen as it isn't just a greatest hits live it is a collection of amazing songs performed by some of the world's leading musicians. I love Neil Finn and wish I had been at these concerts to witness such a mind blowing set. To give some examples of the best on offer here (they are all good)Loose Tongue, Take A walk, Stuff and Nonsense, Neil's rendition of The Smiths There is a Light thet Never Goes Out send's shivers down my spine and Don't Dream it's Over is a great finale with just Neil and the guitar. If you are new to Neil, or a casula fan or just love good music you should invest. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Taking threads of rock, pop, jazz, swing, cabaret, and Middle Eastern music, Moxy Früvous weave a kaleidoscopic tapestry of sounds with lustrous voices and vibrant melodies. Floating above their diversified choice of instruments--which at times includes congas, accordion, and a tin whistle--are the band's trademark vocals: four mellifluous voices blending in intimate harmony, like a barbershop quartet covering Tom Waits, Bobby Darin, Ravi Shankar, and the Beach Boys at a Beatles convention. Interspersed between the songs are snippets of the band's on-stage banter and frequent interactions with the audience, bringing everything from a Moxy show into your living room except for the overpriced drinks and the idiot next to you who won't stop screaming over and over for the same song. A rich treat. --Katie Sigler ... Read more

Reviews (30)

The live banter is just like a real moxy show!
If you have never heard Moxy Fruvous this is a great album to start with. I remember a long time ago a fellow fan told me that most people who hear them first on album do not like them, but who see them live love them. This album is the next closest thing to seeing them live. Great renditions of some of their hits (King of Spain, Gotta Get a Message to You) with a smattering of awesome banter. The bit about naked puppets and oscar gets me laughing EVERY time! Hope you enjoy!

Complete chance leads to great musical find!
While walking the halls of my school, I noticed a CD lying on the ground face down. I picked it up to inspect it and all I saw was an ugly fish-duck looking thing, the words "Live Noise" and the initials "MF." Intrigued, I picked it up and pocketed it, seeing that no one was searching for anything around my area. When I got home and put it into my stereo, I had no idea at all what to expect. The first song (Michigan Militia) came on, begining with the lyrics "I like to keep it in the refrigerator/Let me be your American Gladiator." "Garbage!" Thought I, but I listened on and after that first song, couldn't stop listening. Somewhere in the CD, I heard a skit which gave me the band's name; Moxy Fruvous.

Here I am, 3 months later. Not only do I still listen to "Live Noise," but I've bought "Bargainville" and "Wood" since that day and can't get enough. I really don't know how I survived without this band. I'd been a fan of They Might Be Giants since age 10, but in my opinion, these guys rock on a higher level. The silly songs, such as King Of Spain are great, but it's the serious songs that really get me. Horse Shoes, Fly and The Drinking Song are especially beautiful and well-performed. I happen to like the "Live Noise" version of Video Bargainville more than the "Bargainville" original. A lot of the songs, such as King Of Spain and Video Bargainville are faster than their studio-recorded counterparts, which makes the songs even more enjoyable.

The skits are funny, the songs are great, what's not to like? The harmonies are clear and well done and the tracks flow smoothly. This is a CD that you can listen to and not do anything else. Just sit in a room by yourself, turn the volume up, and enjoy the music. This CD is calming, inspiring, thought-provoking and a general pleasure, through and through. The only problem I have with the CD is an extremely small one: I don't like the second King Of Spain version. Many do, I don't. What can I say? There are a few Fruvous songs (Gulf War Song, Spiderman, etc.) that I would've liked to hear on this CD, but I guess the producers couldn't fit them ALL on. The Drinking Song is powerful and a great ending to a great cd. It sounds like I'm just on Fruvous' nuts (pardon the expression), but this CD truly deserves all the praise it's been getting. I'm very greatful to that unknown person who dropped their Moxy Fruvous CD 3 months ago and let me experience such a great band.

I HIGHLY recommend "Bargainville" by Moxy. I'm listening to it right now.

Signing Out, Colin Grover

progzimity@yahoo.com

(I apologize for any spelling or grammatical errors, as I hadn't spell checked this review)

great, for a while
This CD grew on me after a while. It is good-at least at times. The second half gets a bit bogged down for my taste, but tunes like "Johnny Saucep'n" and "Gotta Get A Message To You" are great performances. "Fly" and "Horseshoes" are also standouts. Some of the songs are good, some are dumb and most are dumb and then grew on me. The performances are very good overall but the "banter" between songs can get stupid sometimes. Not in a good way either. Some is amusing, but they do try hard to be funny and don't always make it.
It is great CD when I'm in a certain mood and I do think that a real Fruhead would love it.

A great showcase of live Früvous
I have only had the pleasure of seeing Moxy Früvous live once, and it seems unlikely that I will see them anytime soon, since they're no longer together. It was a great experience, though, and this album captures a lot of that experience. The band is really on top of things when performing live, and most of these tracks actually sound as good as or better than their studio counterparts. In addition to being excellent musicians, the four members of Früvous are also great showmen, and Live Noise manages to showcase some of their amusing between-song banter, as well as an improvisational song about the state with the lowest highest point (although they unwittingly give the wrong answer). I would highly recommend this album to anyone interested in Moxy Früvous. It shows them at their best.

Great mixture of styles
Great CD, lots of different styles, almost anyone can find at least one track that they will like. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

This one gets heavy rotation...
Ever since I discovered The The about 12 years ago, this album has been a staple in my music collection. I love that they don't fit into a certain genre and definitely think that they have been overlooked as an experimental group that was definitely ahead of it's time. "Slow Emotion Replay" is an incredible track that pulls you out of the introspective shadow of the rest of the album. I was disappointed to have not been able to find anything on the Internet about The The, so if anyone knows of a website, please let me know!!

ON A GLOOMY SUNDAY NIGHT, LET MATT JOHNSON ENTERTAIN YOU
...On a gloomy Sunday night, when the sky is overcast, and so is your soul, you come and seek comfort in this tavern where you are entertained, or rather consoled in the misty environment of the bar by the hauntingly eerie voice of Matt Johnson, whose songs unwrap the deepest darkest secrets of the evil human soul - its desires, its insecurities, effortlessly, in the most casual manner, jeering god's masterpiece, that is the confused human.

"DUSK", can be considered as one of those albums that have a redeeming quality. The songs are simple to understand and empathizing, if one wants to mend one's ways, and are difficult and testy, for those who seek revelry and boisterous adventures to calm their emotional turbulence.

Uncomplicated, yet far from beautiful, the songs in "DUSK" have no catchy riffs, no flamboyant guitar displays, but modest tunes, which are made alive by Matt Johnson's confirming manner of singing, and his blatantly honest down-to-earth lyrics. This fact is made even more surprising by the fact that Johnny Marr, the main guitarist of THE THE, was a part of THE SMITHS, which is as known for Johnny's rich guitar-playing, as it is, for Morrissey's earthy lyrics & singing: Johnny's presence in THE THE is somehow overshadowed by its unassuming music.

With "DUSK", it is Matt Johnson, from head to toe. The number, with which the album kicks off, "True Happiness This Way Lies", gives a glimpse, or much more than a glimpse of Matt's strong presence as the force keeping THE THE alive: He instructs with his speech, rather than his singing, of the dirtiest desires of the human soul, and the answer to true happiness in life - call it cacophony, or haughty confidence in one's ability to convert the other. "Dogs Of Lust", along with "Slow Emotion Replay" are the only two conventionally catchy numbers, in the group of seemingly somber tunes.

By a long shot, not "Dogs Of Lust", but the album reaches its summit during "Lung Shadows" and "Bluer Than Midnight" - two of the most unusual songs ever created. While in one of these, Matt's whispers give a feeling of malaise of an evil spirit lurking in the darkest corners of one's house, whereas in the other, it seems as if the spirit has actually entered one's body and is whispering out aloud one's deepest darkest fears, which one loves to hide so cozily.

"DUSK" exemplifies simplicity: simplicity of music, simplicity of words: strong and honest. It is a perfect medicine, an empathizing entity, during days when one is feeling blue and needs just the right person to fill some sense into one's rattled head. Appositely titled, "DUSK" is as subfusc as anything can be, with the nature of a mentor, who seems to know the psyche of the listener only too well.

my most important cd
i have been coming back to this cd over and over for over 10 years. im only 26 and i know this cd more than any other cd. its not even the type of music i would suggest is MY type of music.

none the less...
i come back again and again.
so much knowledge and wisdom on this disc...

so much.

:)

The most magical part of the day....dusk
Enough cannot be said about this album. Its moody, lyrically reflections, the atmosphere of dark heat felt. It is impossible for me to have a favorite The The album but I think this is perhaps the one. For those who've not had the pleasure of seeing The The live. I can only say this. If you think the album is that powerful and moving, seeing Matt sweat his way through these songs on stage bathed in red light and a haze of smoke only makes these songs that much more so. One of the least appreciated songwriters of the last few decades, Matt proves himself over and over again that he can make magic. This album is magic and a must to hear, listen to and feel.

The 90s best busic by far
In the 90s we didn't have too much to look forward to when it came to music. But Matt Johnson rescued the entire decade for me with this album. His best by far, lyrics that are simple in their complexity, and speak directly to you. This man is a true poet. I have had this album for years and it is one of a few that I never get tired of hearing. If you only own one album by Matt Johnson, this should be it. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

If you don't own this, there is a hole in your life.
I don't like live CDs, as a general rule. I bought this anyway because Concrete Blonde's live performances are so dynamic and amazing, much more emotional than their studio recordings. Live in Brazil does about as good a job as a live recording can do of maintaining the raw emotion that is the key ingredient in a powerful live show. Johnette explodes repeatedly, and Jim is on point, as usual. Highlights include Tomorrow Wendy (the best live performance I've ever heard of this song), Caroline, I Was a Fool, Violent, Roxy, and Joey. Why they omitted Jenny, I Read is beyond me, but I guess I can forgive them.

money, art, a broken heart, where did you want to go?
I have been a Concrete Blonde fan since I was twelve years old. They remain my favorite band. I have seen them live several times in the last 13 years. I along with a myriad of other devotees have been waiting patiently for an official live album. Johnette and co. deliver. Johnette's voice is coated in its usual velvet and explodes from its hard core (hence the concrete blonde metaphor). The band retains integrity with a lack of pretense as usual. I am completely satiated by this release.
Among the standout tracks, I recommend: "Valentine" for the sheer rage of it, "Everybody Knows" the Cohen cover is spat out with such venom live, "Little Conversations" good to hear this one again,"Mexican Moon" conjures its usual duende and callus warnings.

In short. . .I love this band's work. Live In Brazil finds them still socially relevant and in peak form.

Short and sweet review
As many "Live in Rio" albums do....this one really ROCKS. Buy it.

Real Alternative Rock: Punk is Alive
Although I've heard several Concrete Blonde songs over the years ('Tomorrow Wendy', 'Bloodletting' and the amazing cover of Leonard Cohen's 'Everybody Knows', among them), 'Live in Brazil' is the first of their albums I listened to. Although 'Live in Brazil' is not a perfect introduction, it is truly a great album, and I'm sure I'll be listening to lots more from the Los Angeles Trio.

The greatest disadvantage is 'Live in Brazil' is that the songs lack something of an identity, blurring a bit with each other. Even after multiple listening, I'm still not quite sure, looking at the song lists, what 'Little Conversations' or 'Your Haunted Friend' are like, exactly.

But this is a minor flaw. This is an album with amazing guitars, powerful punky melodies, and lots of enthusiasm by the band. Mostly, it is Johnette Napolitano amazing vocal that carries the melodies, firing haunting eulogies ('Tomorrow Wendy') ironic love songs ('Tonight') and angst ridden tirades ('Violent') with equal conviction.

Among the highlights in these two albums is opener 'God is a Bullet', which features one of the best song titles I've encountered in recent times, combined with a great if simple ascending bass line and a great refrain: The music stops while Napolitano screams "God is bullet have mercy on us everyone".

Another highlight is the Leonard Cohen cover, "Everybody Knows", introduced with an amusing commentary, "This is a song by a great-great-great-great-great-great-greatgreatGREAT Man". If Cohen's song was an ironic satire, a tale of depression told with a laugh around the bar, Concrete Blonde turn it into a bitter, haunting punk rock song, ending, quite appropriately, with Napolitano's version of Cohen's bitterest lyric in the song 'Everybody knows that you've been discrete/ but there were so many bitches you just had to meet/ without your cloths/Every body Knows'.

Also memorable is 'I was a Fool', where the acoustic song becomes in the final chorus to a Post Punk yell, with heavy guitars and bass to match, "Scene of the Perfect Crime' which is just beautiful and sad, and set closer 'Tomorrow Wendy' an alternative rock classic, even if the guitar reminds me a little bit too much of the Pixies's 'Where Is My Mind?'

Concrete Blonde's live album is a must have for fans of alternative rock. If you like guitars distorted, songs aggressive, and vocals angry, bitter and chaotic, this is an album for you.

wonderful album
Happened to catch a song by Concrete Blonde in a store and went looking for an album. I am surprised that I haven't discovered this great band before now. I want to particularly thank the guy who complained that entertainers should not express their political opions (unless, presumably, it agrees with the opinions authorized by Big Brother). I am particularly pleased to have the opportunity to take a small action in opposition to this particularly repugnant and unAmerican notion, and to support a band with the courage to speak out against those who are trying to destroy the most cherished American values. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Pixie are the best band ever!
BBC is a wonderful compilation of the Pixies. It contains several alternative versions to many of you favorite Pixies songs. I recommend that anyone who like great music should obtain BBC. ... Read more

Album Description

Recorded in New York & Dublin on St. Paddy's Day 2001,features 20 tracks including some Pogues tracks. EagleRecords. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A True Gift To Shane Fans!
I can't take it out of my CD player. A wonderful Paddy's Day live recording combining popular tunes from the Pogues and Popes. Shane is in top form on several songs, among them Aisling and Nancy Whiskey. He is in fine form on all others save one - Shane's crooning on Lonesome Highway is, frankly, painful. This recording is worlds better than Streams of Whiskey and a must have by fans of Shane and the Popes.

It only took a year to get here!
So the now infamous St. Paddy's Day 2001 live album finally sees the light of day in 2002! Fans of Shane MacGowan & The Popes have suffered long hard this past year with every release date getting pushed back, but let me tell you, now that it's out, it's well worth the wait!

Those of you that recently purchased The Pogues' "Streams Of Whiskey" live album (which The Pogues are rumored to be quite unhappy with), will be pleasantly surprised in the amazingly improved recording quality on Shane's disc. The instruments and vocals are crystal clear, well the instruments are. Shane's drunken bellowing is of course: Shane's drunken bellowing!

Yet, our favorite 20th century Paddy is in fine form here. Shane & The Popes bang out ould Pogues, Shane's, Traditional, Pope's tunes and even a cover of the last song Hank Williams Sr. wrote before he died: the eerie "Angel Of Death". And if all that wasn't enough, we're also graced with hearing both Shane's sister, Siobhan and their mum, Theresa sharing the vocal duties.

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SHANE STILL STANDING HIGH
Having seen Shane in concert, vomiting on the stage, I didn't know what to expect from this live album. It exceeds my expectations. Shane sounds more drunk on the spoken introductions to the songs than he does when singing. Once the song starts up, he gives it all he has, which is quite a lot. In my opinion, he is one of the greatest singer/songwriters of the century. This live album is a special treat, as, not only does it include great live performances of many of Shane's songs, but several songs, such as "Rainy Night In Soho," which were never put on an album, but are amoung his finest work. Highly recommended. Drunk or not, Shane is up there with the very best, including Van Morrison, Gene Clark, and a handful of others of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Shane MacGowan and St. Patrick's day
I picked up a used copy of this cd yesterday and after the first few notes I knew it was great. Mind you, I am a big fan already, so I'm not sure if your not already a fan if you'd enjoy this. But the sound is not bad and the song selection is good. The great thing about it is the unbridled enthusiam that comes through in the songs. You can almost see the crowd dancing and jumping along to the songs. Great sing-a-long night for paddys everywhere.

Good evening miene kinder!
Great live album from Shane, full of energy and excitement. His delivery is great, and the Popes rock!(check out their instrumental). This album BLOWS AWAY 'Streams of Whiskey', other reviewers complaining about Shane's performance obviously haven't heard 'Streams'(Shane starts singing one tune and the Pogues are playing an entirely different song! as well as forgotten lyrics, ect.) The sound quality is great, but the crowd has been EQ'ed out to such an extent that they can hardly be heard (sounds like a crowd of a dozen!) More crowd and more of Shane's solo stuff and this CD would have gotten 5 stars. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Not only is Bootleg Detroit an aptly named live album, it's also an atypical one. For this, "the only official live release of Morphine," Rykodisc has released a low-fidelity recording made by an audience member during the band's Cure for Pain tour in 1994. Although the recording was mastered by frontman Mark Sandman before his onstage death in 1999, the sound quality never rises above that of your average bootleg. The drum sound echoes, and the baritone sax and bass are muddy. However, Sandman's dry voice shines through fairly well. The total package is somewhat voyeuristic, as if Bootleg Detroit were meant to sound like putting an ear up against the outside of a theater. For those who never got the chance to see Morphine's amazing live show, this is, sadly, as close as one can get. Yet even under the aural murk, the band's sexy and sulky low rock is spellbinding. --Jason Josephes ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Buena Buena
I was a bit hesitant to pick this one up, expecting it to have the lo-fi sound quality I have come to expect on anything labled "bootleg." If anyone out there shares this concern, let me put it to rest. Bootleg Detroit sounds as good as any live album Ive heard, and sounds almost as good as a soundboard recording.

The song selection is pretty decent too. Included are Candy, YOu Look Like Rain, Buena, Cure For Pain... most of the classics. I wish they had played In Spite Of Me too, but alas, you cant change history.

So, if you like Morphine, I would definately pick this one up. It's everything fans had come to expect from Morphine. A great live record.

How live albums should not be produced
Morphine's Bootleg: Detroit is a textbook example of how not to assemble a live album: Take a fairly average performance; record it with second-rate equipment; do not eliminate any of the lead singer's banter, no matter how tiresome, mummbly and hackneyed ("Thank you very much, Detroit, Michigan. We're happy to be here") and leave almost half of the disc blank (Don't be fooled by the fact that Bootleg: Detroit contains eighteen tracks. Every instrumental prelude and piece of banter is considered a selection. The album is eleven songs and only forty minutes). Diehard Morphine fans who may already possess a stack of better, actual bootlegs of the band's shows, should be disappointed by Bootleg: Detroit and neophytes can certainly find better examples of the band's slinky night-rock than this murky recording of a sub par concert.

A fans recollection of a magical night.
This is Morphine at their raw best! This recording is a snapshot of one of Morphine's best live performances ever! Mark stated the following year that "the last time we played here at St. Andrews was one of the best shows we've ever had". The band was touring in support of their hit album "Cure For Pain" when they rolled into Detroit on this Monday night to play to one thousand lucky fans at this packed, intimate Detroit club. I remember leaving the show that night with the master tape in my bag -- that is now memorialized on the this disc -- feeling completely energized and transformed. I was repeating the phrase "that was the best show I have ever seen" over and over to any one who would listen. I thank God I was rolling tape that night, recording the "Morphine experience". Unfortunately, when Mark edited it he left out 20 minutes of great music. However, the 40 minutes that is there is exceptional. I am grateful Mark had the opportunity to again enjoy this stellar performance and found it worthy to share with all of you. He is greatly missed. If you never had the chance to see Morphine live, or want to relive the experience, buy this cd, turn the lights down low, close your eyes, crank up the volume and experience the power and magic that was Morphine! Cheers, Alan

MORPHINE LIVE
BUY IT!!! If you like Morphine, or kinda like Morphine, or have never even heard of Morphine, buy it. You won't be dissapointed. There are no bad songs on the album. It even has the onstage banter with the crowd. There are few bands that have been able to accomplish what Morphine has. With only 3 musicians in the band the have been able to create a huge sound and with great diversity. Mark (rest in peace) Sandman is a master with the great art of composition. With such talented musicians they have been able to create a sound like no other. And this "LIVE" album showcases their great ability and beautiful art. BUY IT!!!

Good album
Good smattering of Morphine -- gives you the flavor of a live Detroit performance. Not as polished as a studio track though, so if that bothers you you might want to think twice. Personally, I think it's pretty good. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This is a six-song live documentation of Ministry's 1989-90 North American tour. It is arguably the band at its peak: the material is drawn exclusively from their two best albums (The Land of Rape and Honey, The Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Taste).The lineup is a virtual "all-stars" of hard electro, including Nivek Ogre of Skinny Puppy, Martin Atkins of Pigface, and singer Chris Connelly. This is not mere rehash, as all the songs boast heavier guitar sounds than their studio counterparts. "Burning Inside" and "Stigmata" are distinctly different, both featuring longer arrangements and additional sound effects. There is also a rotation of singers, with Connelly taking the lead on "So What" and Ogre roaring in front on "Thieves." --Mark McCleerey ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Ministry at their peak
Before "Psalm 69" took Ministry to never before imagined heights, they released this 6 song live album which features material from "Land of Rape & Honey" and "Mind is a Terrible Thing to Taste"; and it showcases the band at their peak and at their best. The audio quality is amazing (better than they're recently released "Sphinctour") and presents Al Jourgenson and co. the way they are meant to be heard: with thundering rhythm, grinding guitar carnage, and an insane audience of Ministry fans. "Burning Inside" is amazingly re-envisioned live, and "So What" sends chills down the spine. All in all, "In Case You Didn't Feel Like Showing Up" is an absolute must have for any and every Ministry fan. This is how to do industrial/metal music.

Industrial Perfection
Towards the late eighties Ministry was quietly perfecting the industrial sound. Land of Rape and Honey and Mind is a Terrible Thing to Taste are still two of my favorite hard rock albums. This live CD has only six songs, but the VHS tape has a few more songs on it. It also includes a cameo near the end by Jello Biafra of Dead Kennedies fame. Too bad this album did not have more material on it.

And I was there...
I saw Ministry with KMFDM in Atlanta, Georgia at the Masquerade during the "Mind is a Terrible Thing to Taste" tour from which this was recorded. ( Although this was not the date recorded.) Before heroin ruined the band. A great concert this was. Truly amazing, genre - defying stuff, it spits in the face of all that came before it, and all that would follow. Heavy metal , but not in a dumb hair-metal kinda way. Industrial/dance, but not in a techno-gay-bar kinda way. It's the porridge that Goldilocks chose. Ministry here are at their peak, as far as live performance goes. And it SOUNDS good, unlike some live albums you come across. Utter perfection.

A MISSING 7TH TRACK!!!!
Just a tip for you fans that weren't around or paying attention in 1990. A live version of "Breathe" is availabale on the Sire compilation "Just Say Da" that was released at about the same time as "In Case You Didn't Feel Like Showing Up." It was recorded on this tour and is exclusive to that compilation...Sire thought it would help sales of that compilation and vice versa. It goes perfectly with these 6 tracks on your iPod.

Ministry at its best
No live album is as visceral or ferociously important as this album. Listening to this album will take you back to a place in your life where everything ..., where everyone ..., where the only person you could rely on was yourself. Listen to it with high-quality headphones late at night with the lights off and your eyes closed. For 45 minutes or so you will experience the apex of live industrial music. It's a brilliant album, let alone a live experience. (I break out in a sweat whenever I listen to "So What.") Look, in general, as a band, Nine Inch Nails is musically better than Ministry (in my opinion), but this live album is honestly heads above NIN's fragility live disc. Seriously. ... Read more

Album Description

Aussie exclusive live release featuring three of New Zealand's top artists, Tim Finn (founder of Split Enz who later joined Crowded House), Bic Runga (alternative pop superstar) and Dave Dobbyn (founding member of Th'Dudes and one of N.Z.'s most popular and respected figures). 15 tracks including the Split Enz classic 'Six Months In A Leaky Boat'. This exclusive release also features versions of tracks from each of the artists solo careers! Standard jewel case. 2000 release. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Now that's what i call music
Need a change.
Need to escape from the hussle and bussle of the big city
Need to relax?
Then
This is certainly something essential for u
Just put them on and drift away in the small little world
of bic runga
She's a truly gifted musician!

New Zealand Music at its very best
simply superb...what more can I say

More great Kiwi music
Have had this album for a couple of years and just keep playing it. The synergy between the trio means brilliant music, playing some of their best songs. 'Loyal' will always be a winner (and now Team NZ's theme song) and 'Whaling' just rocks. Pride of place in my NZ collection.

Memories from Australia
This has quickly become one of my favorite CDs. Having only heard "Good Moring Baby" on the radio in Australia, I seeked this album out in the U.S. It was FAR worth it... all three of these artists really sound superb together. Every song is a work of art.

BRILLIANT CD FROM A BRILLIANT TOUR
The songs on this album were recorded live from the 'Together in Concert' shows throughout New Zealand. Bic Runga, Tim Finn and Dave Dobbyn are of New Zealands most talented singer/songwriters. Their concerts last year were a sellout and this CD including 5 songs from each of the artists, is almost as good as the live shows were themselves - a little something to remind you of a night to remember. Their voices blend together wonderfully. Hope they do a repeat tour. ... Read more