Oh yea, a Southside Johnny double-header.

Every year, right around labor day, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes bring their show to the New Hampshire seacoast's Casino Ballroom. For some of us, the event marks the end of summer.

But what a way to close it out! We're looking forward to Saturday night.

The live Southside record was a staple throughout the college experience. It's a great example of what the Jukes sounded like in their earlier years. Plus, the live versions of the classics "I'm So Anxious", "Talk To Me", "I Don't Want To Go Home", "The Fever" and "Having A Party" clearly trump the studio versions. It's the Southside album to own.

Better Days is a sort of Asbury Park reunion record, with the musical cast including: Max Weinberg, Gary Tallent, Little Steven (who turns in some fine guitar solos), Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi. This album came out in 1991 and returned Southside to the top of his game. Just take a listen to "It's Been A Long Time", with the vocal quartet of Southside, Springsteen, Bon Jovi and Miami Steve. It's the real deal.

(First posted on Mark Is Cranky)