Compiled from three European shows (Berlin, Dublin and Glasgow) over the course of six weeks in Autumn 2007, Live presents Black Rebel Motorcycle Club in support of Baby 81. The alternative rock trio of guitarist Peter Hayes, bassist Robert Been, and now former drummer Nick Jago deliver a smokin', two-hour-plus, 22-song set filled with fuzzed-out garage rockers covering their entire discography as well as a few surprises.
In addition to the selections from all four B.R.M.C. albums, Been plays "Mercy" from Howl Sessions Vol. 2 on solo acoustic guitar and segues into a cover of "Dirty Old Town" made popular by The Dubliners and The Pogues. "Promise" finds Been moving from bass to piano in a debut of the arrangement. Hayes accompanies him on trombone. After the main set ends with the raucous "Whatever Happened To My Rock And Roll (Punk Song)," Hayes get his own time alone in the spotlight by beginning the encore on acoustic guitar and harmonica performing "Fault Line." UK single B-side "The Show Is About To Begin" is a bit misleading slotted as the penultimate song of the night. After the credits, Hayes is solo again on "Am I Only," likely at a soundcheck.
As the concert opens, there's not a lot of color in the images as the band is no frills. On stage are just the essentials as they play under white lights, which put them in shadow and occasional darkness with the frequent strobe effect. With "Weight Of The World" some color begins to seep in, but it is desaturated.
Director Tessa Angus has to take the blame for the poor video presentation. The camera work has way too much movement, constant pans and zooms that give the appearance of a bunch of film students first learning how to use the equipment. It's all cut together as a hurried pace throughout, and in combination with the stage lighting, it makes it difficult to see the guys actually playing. Luckily, the music more than up makes up for the visuals.
.jpg?t=20120209092158)
Article comments