In the early '90s, alternative rock band LIVE began an amazing career, hitting the airwaves with a series of singles that still resonate with listeners around the world. Their hits "All Over You," "The Dolphin's Cry," "Lightning Crashes," and "I Alone" still score steady airplay on radio stations. And after four platinum records (Mental Jewelry, Throwing Copper, Secret Samadhi, and The Distance to Here) in the last 20-plus years, the band still leaves their fans rabid for new music and concerts.
On November 11, 2008, LIVE — Ed Kowlczyk (vocals/guitar), Chad Taylor (lead guitar), Patrick Dahlheimer (bass guitar), and Chad Gracey (drums) — will release their first concert album, LIVE at the Paradiso - Amsterdam, on both CD and DVD with high-definition surround sound.
Recorded over two nights (June 30th and July 1st, 2008), the 16-track CD contains their biggest hits, including "I Alone," "Lightning Crashes," and "The Dolphin's Cry," among others. Two new studio tracks — "Forever" and "Purifier" — round out the album.
In a statement on the release, Kowlczyk says, "The filming and recording of LIVE at the Paradiso was a magical process from start to finish." Of album's live audience, he notes, "Dutch LIVE fans are some of our most devoted on the globe, and they practically steal the show from us. Whether you're watching the DVD or listening to the album, the intense and mutual love between the fans and the band is unmistakable."
A great live album makes you jealous that you weren't present at the event it documents and LIVE at the Paradiso - Amsterdam certainly qualifies as such. It not only captures the passion of the band, but also that of their fans, who can be heard singing in the background at the top of their lungs.
Among the best tracks — and it's tough to choose among them — have to be "The Dolphin's Cry," "Lightning Crashes" and "I Alone." The studio versions of these songs are powerful, but with the palpable enthusiasm of the audience involved, Kowlczyk really shines. You can hear his emotion build and yet he also lets the adoration from the audience further guide and fuel it throughout the performance.
Article comments