Heavy metal is not pretty. Anyone who tries to tell you otherwise is trying to sell you something - but it sure does rock.
After 25 years of rocking, Grave Digger has finally released a live compilation worth celebrating, and they are dishing it up both on CD and DVD for us to enjoy. Formed in 1980, Grave Digger has been one of Germany's brightest stars in the metal arena for years now. Over the past few years, their releases have consistently garnered high praise, and 25 to Live is no different.
Recorded in 2005 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, 25 to Live offers an excellent chronicle of the band's career, spanning their numerous albums. The show was a relatively simple one, allowing the audience to really focus on what they came for: kick-ass heavy metal, with no pretension.
There are no elaborate light shows (though of course some changing colors and flashing now and then), no elaborate stage set-up: just five guys giving it their all to rock the crowd. And the crowd responded appreciatively. There is a reason that so many rock bands record live albums in Brazil: on every live release I have ever heard recorded in Brazil, the crowd is simply insane.
The crowd coming to see Grave Digger that night was no different. They sang along to every word, and often even to the music when there were no words! They consistently chanted between just about every song. They went nuts every time lead singer Chris Boltendahl screamed "Obrigado!" The energy infused in the show is infectious, and I found myself pumping my fist in the air right along with them.
The band is great as well. Monster guitar riffs, machine-gun staccato, lightning fast solos, thundering bass, and pummeling drum work prove that after 25 years, Grave Digger has plenty of life in them. They really seem to be enjoying themselves, evident in the interaction with each other and the crowd. The music is very tight, the playing excellent, and the energy from the band is absolutely great.
Article comments
1 - Guppusmaximus
Cool... I'll have to check 'em out. That's what I love about metal,even though I have heard a ton of bands there are always plenty that I've never heard of. I definately agree about concerts recorded in Brazil... Just look at Iron Maiden's performance at Rock in Rio.
2 - Progged
Guppus: I was very impressed. I have never been a fan of the band, simply because I didn't know about them. But I had the chance to review this and have to admit, I have become a fan. Of course, not every song is a winner, but the music on this DVD just really got me going. Great metal all around.
And, yes, Rock in Rio demonstrates just how amazing Brazilian crowds are.
3 - Val Halla
didnt know there was a dvd, i got the 25 to live cd and it was great, now i need to get the dvd. looking forward to it