Extreme – Take Us Alive: Boston 2009

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Extreme’s reformation was a highly anticipated event in 2008, and following disappointing comeback album Saudades de Rock, their live shows were the thing fans were keenest to experience. This new double live album was recorded at the Boston House of Blues on the last date of the East Meets West Tour (not actually on the Take Us Alive Tour, which took place in 2008) a co-headliner with Ratt, and features a setlist which covers almost every facet of their career (although criminally only one track apiece from III: Sides To Every Story and Waiting For The Punchline), and gives the members time to perform solo spots as well. Most of the song selections, especially from the first two albums, are obvious, but Gary Cherone in particular is in fine form. The problem with the album is the mix, which muddies the music, often leaving Cherone too far up front and muffling the intricacies of guitarist Nuno Bettencourt’s playing. Lacking this usually-prominant feature of their music, as well as the crispness of the riffs, really affects the recording and means it is highly unlikely to replace the studio albums, or even one of the greatest hits compilations, at the top of any fan’s playlist. New fans are advised to avoid as this doesn’t do the band justice.

Written by Andy Lye
More: Hard Rock, Live Albums, Quick.Play Reviews, Extreme