Learning to Flinch
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Audio CD (13 April, 1993)
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Reviews (29)

Flinching In Public
This is a very frustrating listen, because it is so darn spotty. The voice is frequently undermiked, and the guitar is often harsh. But it is Warren Zevon in his element. I saw him play a show very much like the ones captured here, in Harrisburg PA, during the tour for "The Envoy." He was a captivating performer, full of wicked humor and some amazing chops.

The best moments on "Learning To Flinch" come when Warren sits behind his piano and lets loose. "Excitable Boy," "Hasten Down The Wind," are the CD's highpoints. But you also have to put up with a nearly inaudible version of "Mr Bad Example" and a puzzlingly drawn out synthesized opening to "Roland The Headless Thompson Gunner."

"Learning to Flinch" will likely always stay in my library because of the handful of great renditions here (especially "Boom Boom Mancini"), but only the die hards should feel like they absolutely have to own this. Even more criminal is that the superior "Stand In The Fire" concert album remains out of print.

Great
Anyway, Zevon starts out with one of his great puffs of smoke: "Some days I feel like my shadow's smoking me, Some days the asbestos don't shine." I love that image of a shadow smoking a person -- it evokes a lung cancer, a state of yellowed teeth, death, and yet, the lyrics are carefully crafted: on some days does Zevon, and I'm going to presume that there's plenty of chain-smoking going on on this album, feel that his shadow is smoking him and that the asbestos is not shining. Even in the face of certain frivolous lawsuits, the implication remains that there are days when the asbestos shines -- when Warren still casts his own smoke. Later in the smoke, we're reminded that Warren's "smoking down [his] asbestos-faking life and times," and the lump hits the cancer. Oh, is this a painful puff. And it was so painful, on so many levels (the SMOKE-1 special is essential viewing), for Warren. But like all Nicotine works of music, it somehow raises the spirit -- of both the listener and the singer-songwriter.

Zevon was lifelong smoker and asbestos is cover-up excuse
Anyway, Zevon starts out with one of his great puffs of smoke: "Some days I feel like my shadow's smoking me, Some days the asbestos don't shine." I love that image of a shadow smoking a person -- it evokes a lung cancer, a state of yellowed teeth, death, and yet, the lyrics are carefully crafted: on some days does Zevon, and I'm going to presume that there's plenty of chain-smoking going on on this album, feel that his shadow is smoking him and that the asbestos is not shining. Even in the face of certain frivolous lawsuits, the implication remains that there are days when the asbestos shines -- when Warren still casts his own smoke. Later in the smoke, we're reminded that Warren's "smoking down [his] asbestos-faking life and times," and the lump hits the cancer. Oh, is this a painful puff. And it was so painful, on so many levels (the SMOKE-1 special is essential viewing), for Warren. But like all Nicotine works of music, it somehow raises the spirit -- of both the listener and the singer-songwriter. ... Read more

Asin: B000002L15
Sales Rank: 25204
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Pop    3. Rock    4. Singer/Songwriter   

Alchemy: Dire Straits Live
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Audio CD (1984)
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Reviews (39)

A Masterpiece
I'm a huge Dire Straits fan and when I heard this album I was blown away. Dire Straits were a great live band and this recording is one of the best ever. The songs on this CD are much more mature than the original studio versions and make great listening.

'Once Upon a Time in the West' was an average song from the 'Communique' album, but on this CD it has become a 12 minute long hard rock song, with better vocals, and huge instrumentals featuring some of Mark Knopfler's best guitar work and some very good drumming. Tne sound of the bass drum in this track is so atmospheric. 'Sultans of Swing' is played in a similar style and is much faster featuring longer solos too.

'Expresso Love', 'Romeo and Julliet', 'Tunnel of Love' and 'Solid Rock' all sound a little cheesy on the first few Dire Straits studio albums, but on this CD they have become much more mature and sound like classic rock songs rather than songs produced in a cheesy pop way just to sell records. I also believe that Dire Straits had matured more as band by this stage and therefore took on a whole new theme for the songs of their previous albums.

'Love Over Gold', 'Private Investigations', 'Two Young Lovers' and 'Telegraph Road' all sound similar to the studio versions which are very good. Although on this CD the solos are improvised and are a little longer which makes the songs sound even better.

Finally 'The Going Home Theme' from 'Local Hero'. It is pretty similar to the studio recording but is also a great way to finish a live concert with the saxophone blasting out the rich, atmospheric sound of 'Celtic' isstrumentals.

Overall a great live recording and any Dire Straits fan should add this to their collection. I also recommend this CD to people who are not really Dire Straits fans. I can imagine that most people wouldn't buy it due to the fact that Dire Straits classics like Money for Nothing, Walk of Life and Brothers in Arms are not on it. Unfortunately when Alchemy was recorded, the Brothers in Arms album had not yet been released. However the absense of these songs should not influence your decision in whether to buy this CD because it is absolutely awesome.

The best live album I've ever heard from probably the best live band I've ever heard! Just can't get bored of it. I'm really gutted that I was only 1 year old when this recorded. I would have loved to see Dire Straits live! :D

A High Quality Live Performance...
I recently purchased this album for a friend of mine.She had heard it one time in the '80s (on cassette) but was unsure of the name of the album, so she was never able to buy it.After listening to the album once, it became clear why the opinions of this album differ so greatly.

First, there are only eleven songs on two CDs.Many people consider this number to be to small to warrant the use of 2 disks.However, these are not 3 minute tracks. Overall, they come to a total of around 90 minutes.I have no problems with this, but some people I know do.

Another problem some people may have with this CD is the distinctly different ways some of the songs are performed.For example, the studio edition of Sultans of Swing falls into the categories of fast swing and slow rock.On this album, however, the song is played in a much more up-tempo way, bringing it out of both these genres.Personally, I prefer the live edition more, yet I know several people who do not.

Finally, the main reason people have such differing views on this album involves whether or not the person listening likes instrumentals or solos.Granted, all of the songs have lyrics, but, as stated earlier, the 11 songs come to 90 minutes.Consequently, all of the tracks are longer than their studio counterparts.For example, Sultans of Swing is 10 minutes long with about five minutes of instrumentals. This is compared with the 5 minute studio version.

So, the bottom line is, if you like instrumentals and longer songs, you are probably going to like this album.

If you don't like to hear instrumentals, or if you think the songs on a live album should sound fairly similar to the studio versions, then stay away from this album, and pick up a copy of "Brothers in Arms" instead.

Best CD ever???
Best CD ever??? NOT.
I was actually abhored by this live album, especially part one.
The band did some splendid work during their time but this certainly does not rank with their best. ... Read more

Asin: B000002L5V
Sales Rank: 3574
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Pop    3. Pop/Rock    4. Rock    5. Rock & Roll   

Year of the Horse
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Audio CD (17 June, 1997)
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Editorial Review

Long may he run, sure, but Young and friends sound like they're in dire need of a creative refuel on this ho-hum live set. The man's clearly coasting. He knocked off the Broken Arrow studio disc without a second thought, and here the tapes roll for 83 minutes in capturing an OK performance (highlight: "Slipaway," the labyrinthine disc-two opener) that is effectively nothing more than an officially sanctioned bootleg. Let's hope he either gets inspired enough to deliver a Sleeps with Angels-style opus or finally wraps work on what should an awesome archival retrospective. --Jeff Bateman ... Read more

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Reviews (20)

Not the best live one but not bad either.....
I've not listend to this in quite some time and decided I needed a charge. This was Neil and Crazy Horse doing long jams to some really good songs. I love the long, drawn out version of Danger Bird. Slip Away was another cool tune. I guess what I like the best about this is that he chose some songs that have not been recorded live before. I feel the version of When You Dance and Mr. Soul are simply fantastic. This disc may not be as good as some of his other live ones, but it's not to shabby either. Worth a listen folks......

great set, bad sound
I am a big Neil Young fan and think that this is a great set list, but the sound quality is just not there. It sounds like it was recorded from a mic in the audience rather than from a mix (was it mixed?).

From the mouth of the Horse...
No one has kept the eternal flame of psychedelic rock alive with more sincerity, or longer than Neil Young.Perhaps the artist says it best himself on 'Big Time': "I'm still living the dream we had... for me it's not over".Even if you snicker a bit at the concept, it's obvious that Young still believes in love, peace and understanding, and it's certainly a noble ralling cry to cling to.Those who have abandoned the concept have frequently aspired to much less.

'Year of the Horse' is an underrated live set from Young, panned as lacking enthusiasm (those not familiar with Young may not realize that not every song he writes was intended as an 'ace-in-the-hole' for American Idol), or for retreading old territory by asking, "Do we really need another live version of 'When You Dance', 'Mr. Soul', 'Pocahontas', or 'Sedan Delivery'"?To even modestly addicted Neil fans, the immediate and immutable response is, "YES!".Consider that popular among the more rabid of us are web sites that attempt, with some precision, to detail every song ever performed at every concert by Young (check out the Sugar Mountain web site).Now, that's rabid.The appeal of alternate takes on any Young song becomes especially pertinent since Neil, like his chosen mentors Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix, so frequently reinvents his compositions.On this disc, 'Mr. Soul' is a case in point.Here we have a mid-60's souped up, fuel injected hot rod from Buffalo Springfield that has morphed into an acoustic blues romp, with Neil's 6 strings sounding loose enough to be falling off the guitar with each strum.Young's ode to Hendrix appears at the end of a high octane 'Prisoners Of Rock n' Roll', as he breaks into a psychedelic 'Star Spangled Banner'.

The set list for 'Horse' is remarkably diverse as Neil highlights such gems as 'When You Dance' from 'After the Goldrush', to 'Human Highway' from 'Comes A Time', to 'Sedan Delivery' from 'Rust Never Sleeps', to 'Big Time' and 'Slip Away' from 'Broken Arrow'.In nearly every way Young is "a little bit here and a little bit there", as he sings on 'Scattered'.He wears as many artistic hats as he does real hats these days.In giving Neil a double-disc, Time-Warner invited Young to surely make it seem like four, offering 12 songs from 8 different venues, with textures ranging from the haunting echos of 'When Your Lonely Heart Breaks' to the relentless jackhammer that is 'Sedan Delivery'.

Yet the best number on tap here is the seemingly innocuous 'Barstool Blues' from 1975's 'Zuma' album.This song sits innocently in the setlist until Neil uses it to ambush us like a Viet Cong guerilla, pulling the trigger with ferocity on 'Old Black'.Young has never been a finesse guitarist in the mold of Eric Clapton, or even Stephen Stills (making comparisons between the two rather meaningless).Instead, Neil sculpts sound from his instrument, and he's chiselin' up a storm on 'Barstool Blues'.

The only song I could have lived without is another selection from 'Zuma', 'Dangerbird'.I don't mind the song being heavy, but it's about as deep into depression as Neil goes (which is DEEP), and it's a few fathoms below my own tolerance.But everything else works, and works well, and should be pleasing to Neil fans ranging all the way from novice to completist.In fact, since Neil and the Horse are more consumable coming from the stage than the studio, a specially priced double-disc such as this is a nice way to get a representative sampling of Young's remarkable career.

I suppose if most Young fans had their pick of songs performed on the 1996 US tour, they might want to supplant the retreads with even more diverse selections, such as 'Long May You Run', 'Bite the Bullet', or 'Don't Cry No Tears', but I'm content with leaving Neil in charge and trusting his deejaying.Over the years, he's certainly earned that trust and respect. ... Read more

Asin: B000002NGH
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Country-Rock    3. Folk-Rock    4. Hard Rock    5. Pop    6. Rock    7. Singer/Songwriter   

Under a Blood Red Sky
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (15 June, 1990)
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Editorial Review

There seem to be two major camps of U2 fans now: Those who dig the early albums (good and sensible people), and those who only like the ones from the '90s, putting everything previous down as "classic rock." But U2 only became a classic rock sort of band in 1984, with The Unforgettable Fire. The real early stuff, from '80 to '83, still comes off as edgy--and it's comparatively ignored. Here's a sampler: Under a Blood Red Sky is from a U.S. tour (1983's) in which U2 still thought of itself as a hungry little band from Ireland--and draws (fairly wisely) from the band's first three albums. There's nary a misstep on the entire disc, although it could stand a few more tracks. --Gavin McNett ... Read more

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Reviews (64)

Huh!
This is just garbage. I hate this album! This is the worst live album I know...terrible! Awful!

How I wish I was there.
Such a great live ep/album from a time when U2 were still considered to be "the next big thing". A great performance of songs from their first three albums. This is only eight tracks, but there's alot of rock and emotion within. A must to own for the versions of "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and "40", but also for the inclusion of the obscure songs "11 O'Clock Tick Tock" and "Party Girl". "Under A Blood Red Sky" does need a good remastering job, and why not toss on the live tracks from "Wide Awake In America" as well? Or how 'bout a new live album while I'm wishing?

A 5 Star Record With Much Room For Improvement
This is a five star album for a variety of reasons:

A. The song selection. This is a release from a supremely confident band, trusting that their audience will enjoy the songs they enjoy playing and not just the obvious favorites. Party Girl? 11 O'clock Tick Tock? Rock on!

B. If you are of a certain age, UABRS is inextricably linked to the Red Rocks concert video that was incessantly played on MTV for months and months (and months) back when MTV was not only concerned with music but on a mission to break high quality, envelope-pushing new music in America

C. It is a snapshot of one of Rock's great bands peaking for the first time

All that said, Under A Blood Red Sky cries out for the Deluxe Edition treatment. This short (under 40 minutes) album was sold as an EP upon it's 1983 release and if memory serves was priced accordingly. It seems like this sold for under $6.00 on vinyl. In my humble opinion, Island should blow the dust off the masters re-release it:

A. Remastered in SACD format

B. Fleshed out with all or most of the songs played on the dates originally recorded for the album (I saw this tour at the old Paramount Theater in Portland, OR in 1983 and I remember they were still playing some of the great tunes from Boy, An Cat Dubh particularly sticks in my memory)

C. With a second-disc DVD containing the whole Red Rocks concert

D. Why not add some MTV interview footage from the time?

E. A liner note essay from Paul McGuinness telling the story of the first American transformation: From obscure Irish New Wave up and comers to America's Alterna-Rock heroes with the release of War and the Red Rocks video

UABRS compares favorably to the Who's Live At Leeds. The Who release was an explosive live document also, marred only by it's brevity. The Deluxe Edition remedied that and proved a revelation. Come on Island, get on the stick!

... Read more

Asin: B000001F5F
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Alternative Pop/Rock    3. College Rock    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Post-Punk    7. Rock   

Waiting for Columbus
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $17.98
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Editorial Review

Few rock concert documents can match this 1978 live album for sheer musicianship, or for its full-blooded representation of one of the best live bands ever. Little Feat's turbulent '70s pilgrimage had been studded with commercial detours when its second incarnation as a swampy, blues-rock sextet clicked musically, and these English and American dates, beautifully recorded by George Massenburg, capture the band in all its rowdy, precise glory. The late Lowell George's influence had been damped down in the studio, deferring to his bandmates' writing and singing, but Columbus is dominated by his gruff, lyrical vocal presence and the mercurial tang of his indelible slide guitar. With the Tower of Power Horns aboard to inject razor-sharp horn work, this romp through the Feat songbook of southern-fried rock represents a satisfying summation of the band's best works, every bit as engaging as their studio models. This is simmering, smart music measured by an honor roll of great songs with no lapses. The only caveat--and a minor one--is the deletion of two tracks to squeeze the original two LPs onto a single CD. --Sam Sutherland ... Read more

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Reviews (50)

a live set of boogie rock magic, southern flavored
this cd might be obsolete with the introduction of the newly expanded version, but i don't have that one so I won't review it.This cd is intense and awesome, often cited as one of the greatest live albums ever recorded.And it does hold up since the 70's, with great tunes that are perfectly played and wonderfully arranged.this is boogie rock that is extremely polished, with synths and bongos giving it a party-rock atmosphere.A great live document to a very underappreciated band; just pop it in and enjoy.There isn't a weak moment on here.

One Of The Great Live Albums Ever
My cassette of WAITING FOR COLUMBUS is even better than the original CD because it features two songs not on the first CD version. I have the studio versions of many of the songs, but some of the live versions feature slightly different lyrics and arrangements. This, along with concert recordings by the Allmans, Outlaws, Skynyrd, Nugent, UFO, and some others, is one of the quintessential live albums of all time. A worthy addition to any rock fan's library.

"Waiting..." Waited a Bit Too Long
This isn't a bad live album.The raucous encore of "Feats Don't Fail Me Now" is almost worth the price of admission.

However, it's unfortunate that Little Feat didn't release a live album in 1974 or 1975, rather than 1978.By this point, Lowell George's influence was waning, the band's tendency to noodle makes for ridiculously long jams in a live setting, synthesizers were being used as a musical crutch, and a number of selections are drawn from the Feats' weaker late-70s albums.

Again, this isn't bad, but it could have been so much better. ... Read more

Asin: B000002KI9
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Blues-Rock    3. Boogie Rock    4. Pop    5. Rock    6. Rock & Roll    7. Southern Rock   

The Last Waltz
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Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $24.98
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Editorial Review

"As you might have heard, we got a couple of friends joining in with us tonight," mutters Robbie Robertson dryly. Recorded at San Francisco's Winterland on Thanksgiving Day 1976, the Band's swan song is a rousing celebration, not a bittersweet eulogy. The friends in question: Ronnie Hawkins, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Neil Diamond, Dr. John, Paul Butterfield, Muddy Waters, Pinetop Perkins, Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, Bob Dylan, Ron Wood, Ringo Starr. Add studio sequences featuring the Staples and Emmylou Harris, and you have a pretty formidable supporting cast for the Band, who always did quite well on their own. All involved have done better work elsewhere, but that's far beside the point, which is that anyone who wasn't there should be very, very jealous. --Marc Greilsamer ... Read more

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Reviews (20)

The Musicality of the Band
Great musicianship from the mainstay of the evening, with guest appearances from a host of the "old school" (rock?)stars during that period in American music (it feels odd referring to that period in a past tense, but it is almost 2 generations ago).The Band couldn't have been rock.Progressive, Alternative... it must drive the critics and catagorizers looney.How about great music from North America.Together this group had a fullness and richness to their sound that others in the field could only envy.I recall that Clapton was reported to have left Cream and wanted to start up a group along the lines of the Band.Clapton gets part of his wish and is invited to join in the festivities of the Last Waltz.Can you imagine being there at this event?It would have been a phenominal experience.This release documents this historic occasion with an evening of stellar performances by all guests.A beautiful release.

Why do the best things always disappear?
Like THE LAST WALTZ! The Band succeeded in pulling off not only the greatest live performance of all time, but also proceeded to play songs of their own that actually outdid their original studio performances! Wow! Wait until you get this CD around your ears through your headphones! Listen closely to rocked-up versions of "Stagefright", "Up on Cripple Creek" (could that be played any heavier?), "It Makes No Difference", and "Mystery Train" (they drive old Dixie down pretty good, too). Robertson is the best guitarist ever (yes, I'm remembering Pete Ham and Eric Clapton). Simply unbeatable, because you'll be helpless without this package! Great music-where have you gone?

It would be 5-stars if it wasn't for the controversy
Before you read further, I would like to make a bold statement many would agree with. Robbie Robertson undermined the philosophy that The Band had established with his entire attitude towards this concert. These were five men who each considered themselves equals amongst eachother and Robertson decided he would simply end the group's sixteen years with a film none of the others were interested in pursuing. Not only that, Robbie had Martin Scorcese film him almost exclusively, both on stage and during interviews. Notice how rare the shots are of Garth Hudson and Richard Manuel, two pieces of The Band just as important as the guitarist. This is all without considering the studio overdubs present on the album. With the exception of Levon Helm, each musician's performance was enhanced during the production of both the film and the album. The special moments are present however: arguably the finest live version of "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down", Muddy Waters' "Mannish Boy", Van Morrison's "Caravan", and The Staples joining in for "The Weight" (studio). What makes this 4-stars however, is what is missing: a spectacular version of "Wheel's On Fire", a stunning cover of "Acadian Driftwood" (a difficult song to perform live), Muddy Waters' "Caledonia", and most glaringly, "Don't Do It", the group's final live song with the original five members. Each of these can be heard on "The Complete Last Waltz", a historically valuable (if not in sound quality) bootleg that was released about five years ago. I hope that I have enlightened some of you as to the content and history of this concert. Rick and Richard, your music will live forever in our ears. Rest in peace. ... Read more

Asin: B000002KIC
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Country-Rock    3. Folk-Rock    4. Pop    5. Rock & Roll    6. Singer/Songwriter    7. Soundtracks & Film Scores   

Live In New York City
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (03 April, 2001)
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Editorial Review

If Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band were a playground basketball team they'd be the one made up of local legends that don't have as much spring in their legs as the young bucks, but get by on guts and guile. Culled from the two Madison Square Garden shows that closed out the revived E Street Band's 1999-2000 road show, this 20-song collection deftly entwines fan favorites with fresher material, including two new offerings, the stately "Land of Hope and Dreams" and the solemn "American Skin"--the latter prompted by the shooting of unarmed New Yorker Amadou Diallo by police officers. When Springsteen and company (including both Miami Steve Van Zandt and his successor, Nils Lofgren, on guitar) look back, they temper the force of the original arrangements with ingenuity and a sense of spacing. The E Street Band in their heyday may have served up four-hour marathons, but they felt stopwatch-tight. Here Springsteen reconciles his rocker and reflective sides as "The River" curves along through a serpentine course, "Mansion on the Hill" is given a curious (albeit lovely) Hawaiian treatment, and "Born in the U.S.A." resurfaces as a deep-blues lament. The gang can still muster a take-no-prisoners attack, as witnessed by the hard-charging likes of "Two Hearts" and "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out." --Steven Stolder ... Read more

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Reviews (162)

A DEBT OF GRATITUDE.
Q:What transforms a guy who formerly shrugged off Springteen into a die hard fanatic in one lighting-bolt of an electric moment?

A:THIS!

Or more acurately, the transfixing, jaw-dropping blow-out that is every second of "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out."

And all of a sudden, I "get it."

Let me set the scene:I came home, dogged and tired, from work.I turned on the TV which, thanks to my roommate at the time, was tuned to MTV (I mention my roommate was watching because I despise MTV, both for what it has become and its contribution to; scratch that; its LEADERSHIP of, all that has become wrong with pop music today).And to add insult ot injury, who's video was on?Creed.Without getting off on a rant of what is probably a hundred reasons why, I'll simply say I hate f**king Creed!For the purpose of the story I do have to mention perhaps the biggest reason why:they are laughably fake in their stupid posturing and are poor performers at that.Their standard riffs and the laughable b.s. that is their overly-rightous lyrics simply enhance this disgusting sherade.So I let out a sigh of contempt, because I can't do a thing about their stupifying success, and move forward to HBO to see if I can catch a movie; and what's on?Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band Live in New York.Towards the end of a song (later I would come to know and love it as "Out In the Street") Bruce was prancing around the stage as the crowd chanted a chorus of, "Oh-oh-oh-oh!"I watched for a minute, smiled at the fun he and his band, whoever these guys are, were having, and decided to move on.Then a funny thing happened.All of a sudden there was a close-up of Bruce's sweaty face.His face red, he stood at the mic and shouted, "New York City!"The crowd screamed.He yelled it again.They screamed louder, drums thudering in the background.One more time: "New York City!!!"The crowd reached near meltdown."Lets Go!One!Two!"A crisp piano plays the opening notes to "Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out," as the audience "sings" along to the melody.Bruce walks the stage, throwing his arms in the air, pointing at every section of the audience, an I-Mean-Business look on his face.I gotta see what happens.After a long work-up, he jumps off the piano he has now taken to, runs back to his mic, and again:"One, two, three, four!!!"The band busts full-force into the song and I am feeling something very exciting. As I watch Bruce rip through this song with more vigor, passion and flat-out rock chops than maybe anyone I've ever seen, I think to myself, now this is how it should be!This is ow its done!THIS is why I hate Creed and all their ilk! I flip back to MTV for a split second. Creed is still on (it must have been more than just one video - treat!).I flip back to Bruce.And back to Creed again.The difference is staggering.I'm flipping thinking, "rock star, douche bag.Rock star, douche bag."Back to Springsteen one last time and I say there.How could it get better.He hadn't introduced the band yet.After the band intro I was giddy with excitment from all the energy the was radiating out of Bruce, his band, the obvious love and comrodere between them; and the audience for that matter, and myself.The song is coming to a close, still at full force and Bruce, obviously tired, but somehow more vitalized than when he started, throws up his hand and yells, "Save me somebody!"

Amazing!

As it turns out, Bruce saved me.I finally understood why he is so popular.I never got the whole "Church of Springsteen" thing and never thought his biggest songs I heard growing up were anything so special.I liked them fine, but I like a lot of songs and artists.I only regard a handfull as beign something more; something special.Turns out I never gave Bruce enough of a chance.

My loss.

Since 2000 when this all went down I have become a die hard Boss fan.I have all the albums, I've been fortunate enough to see him a few times (thanks to "The Rising" and its tour coming right on the heels of my new found love and respect for the Boss as a performer and his lyrics), I've found quite a few songs that have inspired me in one way or another, I've gotten others into him and, God help me, I even karaoke his stuff.I consider myself on board with those who have been with him as far back as they can remember, because I feel like I have been too.

Tenth Avenue," which is roughly 3 songs from the end of the HBO version, was what drew me in. The concert would soon be over and, obviously, I had fallen hard. Both for Springsteen and this live performance. I was kicking myself for not coming to this realization sooner, but I could not wait to right this terrible wrong. I rushed out and picked up the DVD and watched it over and over. At the same time I bought the cd version and listened to it over and over. This, other than previously purchasing "Greatest His" in '95 when I was 16 (even as a non-die hard Bruce fan I knew then that it was severly lacking in many a great songs; I just didn't realize how many), was my main introduction to the Boss. Years later, I wouldn't have the introduction any other way. Knowing what I now know about Bruce, his songs in various versions, and his live performances, the stuff captured here ranks among his best. At least in terms putting someone-new-to-Bruce's jaw on the floor.

So after going back and listening to all Bruce's stuff, falling in love with much of it, and driving everyone crazy who doesn't share my fascination with him (although most who watch this and have heard some of the stuff I told them they just had to hear, do see what I'm talking about; even if it doesn't convert them the way it did me, they can see there is so much more to Bruce than they ever thought and now understand why he is a legen to so many), I can honestly say that "Live in NYC" improves on many of Bruce's best works. And that's not an easy thing.

I've read some people complain about a relative lack of hits and standards here, but what is here is as good as anything he has ever done. To see the setlist does not do the quality justice since Bruce improves on so much and does so much differently. Emotionally, every song benefits from his live energy. Besides "Tenth Ave..." standouts include "Atlantic City," which completely reinvents the song. Bruce's vocals are so tight, so emotive, they send chills. Ditto "Youngstown" and "Lost In the Flood." All three of these songs best their album versions here. Only the DVD contains performances of "Backstreets" and "Darknes On the Edge Of Town," and its a damn shame there wasn't room for them on the CD because they too fall into the better-live category. Again, its the emotion in both the vocal quality as well as the all around playing; from Bruce's guitar work to the band's playing as a whole. I've been trying to get these audio versions ("Darkness" apears on the "Waiting on a Suny Day" single along with "Thunder Road" and "Born to Run" from these NYC shows; but "Backstreets" remains MIA)

And I can't begin to explain his guitar chops on "Prove It All Night" and "Murder Inc." He is phenomenal to watch work that axe. Both the DVD and CD give all the guitar solos a big, blistering, stand out sound. You've never heard Bruce like this in the studio (this guitar-hero-greatness extends on an equal, and maybe larger, scale on the Barcelona DVD, if only because there are more chances for him bust it out on that set).

For that legendary E-Street comrodere, you can't beat "Tenth Ave..." here, but "Two Hearts," the super-chardged, cut-lose fun of "Ramrod," the block party that is "Out in the Street," and the emotional bond of "If I Should Fall Behind," are all a thing of beauty to behold - especially during this reunion phase. This crew needs eachother. Just look at Bruce's "Plugged" from his E-Street departure days - they are not the same apart. Yes, Bruce is a solo artist and the songs are his, but he is never better than when he is with his brothers (and first lady) at his side. Together they make his songs theirs - and ours. This is a band - not Bruce and some backing band. They are not replaceable. Even "E-Steet Shuffle," which plays over the end credits, sounds so good and so fun, I wish we could see the performance and I wish it were included on the CD.

So maybe there was a reason I had to stomach Creed after all. Oh yeah, and as far as this item, if I didn't mention it; get it! Both the DVD and CD.

It may just change your life.

Where excellence dominates Disc 1, mediocracy rules Disc 2
While browsing at the record store, the other day I came to realize that I did not own "Live in New York City".I felt it necessary to hear some live E-Street Band action so I picked it up and listened.I was sucked in from the start with "My Love Will Not Let You Down" which was an awesome way to kick things off.The band sounds passionate and energized.It shows for the remainder of Disc One, with a variety of Springsteen classics.One thing I liked was it was not a greatest hits live set, it really covers a lot of other songs mostly.But I did have major issues with the new "Born in the U.S.A.".If you have the band to back you, I don't understand why you wouldn't give it the sound it was meant to have.Disc Two is where the flaws really come in to play."Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out" is fun and Springsteen's gospel-like rock sermon is certainly inspired but 16 minutes?????That is a little much.I never liked "American Skin" not only for its political message but I really just don't think the song is all that great."Land of Hope and Dreams" however, is excellent. But unfortunately when Disc One is great, Disc Two falls flat for the most part.An epic performance of "Jungleland" (my favorite Springsteen song) gets things back to where they need to be and the remainder of the album is enjoyable.Is the album worth it?If your a fan, yes.There are definately some must have moments on the set. It could have been better, but it is still Springsteen live with the E-Street Band and that is never a bad thing at all.

If Springsteen is Lennon than The E Street Band's McCartney
If Bruce Springsteen was John Lennon than The E Street Band would be Paul McCartney. That's how much they compliment each other. It was a truly wonderful and moving experience to see and hear all these guys together again. Let's hope it happens in the studio as well so we can have Abbey Road instead of silly love songs. (written 4/4/2001) ... Read more

Asin: B00005AFVR
Subjects:  1. Pop    2. Rock   

Live at the Whiskey a Go-Go
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $15.98
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• Live

Reviews (11)

Finally....
Okay, I am forever in love with my friend who introduced me to X, because oh my god I don't know how I lived without them. I had the incredible fortune to see them two months ago in S.F., and it was definitely one of the best shows I'd ever been to. Despite the decline in quality that occured in their albums in the nineties with the loss of Billy Zoom, now that they're all back together performing they have this incredible power reminiscent of "the good old days". While their stage prescence can't be entirely recorded into audio, this album comes really damn close.
So... I recommend: Get this album (assuming of course you already have Los Angeles and Wild Gift... those are the prerequisites), and as soon as you get a chance GO SEE THEM! and send my love.

X - 'Live At The Whiskey A Go-Go' (Elektra)
'Live At...' was recorded while the band was out on tour in 1988,with additional guitarist Tony Gilkyson.So,now X was a five piece.No complaint here.Total of 21 songs performed in 72 minutes of up-beat all American home grown old-school punk.Very good choice.Recently,I got to see all four original members reunite for a decent length tour.Which was:Exene Cervenka-vocals,D.J.Bonebrake-drums,John Doe-bass and Billy Zoom-guitar.These 'new wave' era punksters STILL put on a great live performance.They did many of the tracks on this live CD,like "Los Angeles","Burning House Of Love","My Goodness","Devil Doll","Hungry Wolf","Riding With Mary"(my favorite X song),"White Girl" and "Johnny Hit".A nice find.

If you can only take one X Cd to an island-
Take this one....Please!If you like rock and roll, punk, alt... any or all of these etc....this is the one I'd take out of my whole collection.If you want the concert experience while sorting laundry, mopping the floor, or breaking up with your lover-BUY THIS ONE!~Thanks to all the members of X for being the greatest! ... Read more

Asin: B000005IRW
Sales Rank: 109578
Subjects:  1. American Punk    2. College Rock    3. L.A. Punk    4. Pop    5. Punk    6. Rock   

Live in Concert
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 November, 1999)
list price: $11.98 -- our price: $10.99
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Editorial Review

With just a pair of CDs--Tigerlily and Ophelia--in her solo-career arsenal, Natalie Merchant isn't an artist you'd expect to release a live album. Perhaps Merchant is fond of playing live, which shows throughout these 11 tracks despite her relaxed, unflappable vocal delivery. The former 10,000 Maniacs frontwoman leads an amped "Wonder" and then coos into "San Andreas Fault"; the latter is expansive and dramatic, a direction Merchant is exploring that's alternately off-putting and charming. Merchant's version of David Bowie's "Space Oddity" is even more philosophical and meditative. Add to that a languid take on Neil Young's "After the Gold Rush" and you have a full-scale portrait of Merchant's mindset. The ever-somber music is limited in its emotional scope, but there are few performers in mainstream pop who excel more in that range. --Andrew Bartlett ... Read more

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Reviews (57)

Awesome!
Everything about Live in Concert is great:Natalie's beautiful voice, the arrangements and the songs.My only complain is that she didn't include more songs from Ophelia on the record.Besides that, this album is perfect.

Dull, drab, and barely worth listening to
Barely, I say, because three songs DO stand out as fine performances: her rendition of the 10,000 Maniacs song "Gun Shy," a nice performance of "Seven Years," and a fantastic cover of "Gulf of Araby."

Unfortunately, between the three mentioned tracks is listless filler, songs that were slowed down from their orignal album-slowness.

This isn't the Natalie Merchant of the 80s or early 90s. Seems she's aged twenty-five years since then, as the performance aspect of her show is gone, and replaced by sleep-inducing nothingness.

something's missing...
I've seen Natalie in concert 3 times (once with Lilith fair, and twice solo) and this album doesn't capture what I saw at her concerts.Since this is a Natalie Merhcant album, she should have performed more of her solo stuff.The vocals are beautiful and the album is pretty, but it's so downbeat.It doesn't capture the amazing and fun performer that Merchant is. ... Read more

Asin: B00002MZ2G
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Pop    3. Rock   

Is There Anybody Out There? The Wall Live
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (18 April, 2000)
list price: $24.98 -- our price: $22.99
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Editorial Review

Exactly what was Pink Floyd's The Wall? Rock opera? Concept album? Performance art? Mere entertainment? While the truth may lie in a combination of all of the above, during the band's tour of 1980-81, The Wall was a bona fide spectacle. More than anything, Is There Anybody Out There? captures the volume, the bombast, and the grandeur of these famed performances with remarkable accuracy. Meticulously recorded, these concerts are astonishingly faithful to the band's studio versions and flow out of the speakers with practiced authority and absolutely fantastic sound. That said, there are few new revelations to be gained from hearing The Wall live that can't be gleaned from the studio version. Some moments do have an additional spark, however. "Run Like Hell" is launched with blistering intensity, and the first notes of "Another Brick in the Wall, Part 1" will surely raise a shiver. The release also includes two tracks ("What Shall We Do Now," "The Last Few Bricks") left off the original release due to space constraints. Essential for Floyd fanatics as well as those wishing to hear just how terrific a live concert can sound. --S. Duda ... Read more

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Reviews (129)

a fantastic live rendition of the wall
is there anybody out there is a superb rendition of one of the greatest rock albums the wall.music does not get any better.this is one album which is must in every rock fans collection.hugely recommended.

Pink Floyd-'Is There Anybody Out There?The Wall Live'(Sony)
Review no.128.Good sounding 2-CD archive release of one of rock's most ever desired tour.Pink Floyd's 'The Wall'.As some of you might remember,Floyd played something like four(4)U.S. dates for this double-lp's tour,because of it's high cost to move the show from town to town in early 1980.I had a chance to catch the first concert in New York,but didn't have the money.Talk about a regret that took time to get over.'Is There...' is pretty much the SAME tracks in the same running order than the 2-lp 'The Wall' is.Only difference,is of course the entire 95-minute show is in front of a huge audience.So,you get to fully experience cuts like "In The Flesh?","Another Brick In The Wall,Part 1","Mother","Hey You" and "Comfortably Numb" once again.Wear the headphones while played these two disc.You won't be sorry.Comes with two extremely cool CD booklets packed with informative text and full color photos.A should-have.

Great atmosphere!
Pink Floyd takes Roger Waters' rock opera of alienation on the road, with fantastic results!Featured here is 'The Wall' performed in its entirety.There is a great deal of feeling and emotion in these performances and it makes for a great atmosphere.I was not disappointed when I picked up this CD.This has all the attractions of the studio disc with some time for some extended solos to boot.It sounds great for a live performance as well.The enthusiasm of the crowd just adds to the listener's enjoyment. All fans of Pink Floyd will like this. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SVID
Subjects:  1. Album Rock    2. Disco    3. Hard Rock    4. Pop    5. Prog-Rock/Art Rock    6. Rock