None.
To be honest, I have seen bands that have put on very entertaining shows, or sound fairly close to their recordings (I believe without the use of tapes?), but I have never seen a live performance, that sounds as polished, or better, than any band’s studio recordings. That is just a fact, that is what studio magic can do.
Truly live performances, tend to be rawer, more stripped down, voices can crack, players hit clams, sound equipment can fail, etc. So, if one appreciates spontaneity, rawness, etc., then one may favor, live performances.
My ears, and brain, get inculcated to, appreciate and favor, the studio versions. So, that is why I feel no act has ever been better, than their studio recordings.
Nevertheless, Judas Priest always delivers (pun intended). Blue Murder was phenomenal, as Sykes was such a perfectionist/. Early Guns N’ Roses, Ozzy, Kix was always a good time when playing small clubs. Def Leppard. I saw Bryan Adams do an acoustic set with was amazing. Chris Isaak is always great, etc.
I have been blessed to have seen many, many shows over my lifetime, most were good, some were not, but the audio quality of records, has never failed me. 🙂
27 Responses
As I said in a previous response, Mammoth. The albums are good as a one-man band, but the live shows are fantastic as a five-piece band that takes the material to a whole other level.
I said the same thing. I think if the production on their albums were better Twisted would be a much bigger band. Also don’t think Come Out and Play would have bombed like it did. AJ is one hell of a drummer, not to flashy but HEAVY, reminds me of Bonham how hard he hits those drums, something you dont hear on the albums. Ghis is also why without AJ and The Animal i dont know if I can see them live, their rhythm sections was amazing and it will just feel different without them.
I love Come Out and Play! One of my favorite pieces of music! The only thing that annoyed me about it was how different it was from Stay Hungry. No great evil stuff like Burn in Hell or The Beast. I think they were getting accused of Satan music and caved instead of telling the accusers to shut up! They may of had no control of it
Although I certainly have live tracks that I will play over and over thanks to YouTube (Victim of Changes/British Steel 30th anniversary – Sinner & Desert Plains from Live Vengeance 82 as examples) I tend to agree that none sound better live then in studio. The polished sound as Dana mentioned is what draws you in. Especially that first song on side one of an album (for you vinyl lovers LOL). Sets the tone for the album. And “Going” to the show is a totally different vibe then listening to live tracks in your car. I too Mr. Rock and Roll & Doug R. saw the Priest/Cooper show. When Priest came out and hit the stage with All Guns Blazing, the hairs on my arm stood up and I got the same rush as the first time I saw them in 1984!! Real Paul Stanley I PROMISE you, you won’t be disappointed if you get to see them!!
I see we agree again. 🙂
To DougR re: Alice Cooper- just a note- agree 100%! Not only is the band tight but Alice hires nobody but the best soundmen on the planet to run the board and make sure its optimum sound in every way. The fella we knew had worked for Quiet Riot, Warrant and Ratt prior to getting the gig as Alice’s live concert sound guy. What a thrill & honor to watch somebody that good at thier craft.
Guns n roses