There must have been a reason the band, or more specifically Ian, skipped formal introductions and launched into a fleshed out version of traditional (main) set closer Reprovisional (tagged Roadrunner by The Modern Lovers) instead, followed by another 4 high-gear, driving songs before Guy, not Ian, takes a couple of seconds to proceed with formalities and Great Cop continues the musical downpour. There must have been a reason the stakes were high.

During interlude 2, Ian actually hints that all of it might have something to do with their performance on the previous night at the same venue when he “was having a bit of problems” and listening to the banter that ensues I remember having checked out both of these recordings sometime ago but I can’t remember what Ian is referring to specifically.

Either way, this recording right here documents a memorable performance with a bunch of highlight renderings and sounds phenomenal. Surely, a number of people attending are being a serious drag, but the band takes it all in stride and Ian and Guy do some clever “problem-solving.”

Oh man, what a tape we have here. First you'll notice the mix, which is warm, rich and clear. Joe's bass is really prominent, and that's a big plus for me! The guitars are nicely panned on either side, vocals and drums strong in the stereo field.

The band is playing a cool jam as the recording begins. Then it's a beautiful flow of rocking tunes with Guy's Nice New Outfit being a personal highlight. Great Cop is as angry as it gets here, which is a big contrast to how Ian introduces it. In general, the band is clearly enjoying themselves.

Things get weird, though...aside from a few stage divers there's some people apparently flipping the band off, yelling etc. and basically just souring the mood. There's some epic banter, which I won't spoil here...still, the behaviour of the few bad apples is a pretty big bummer for me. The performance of Suggestion feels especially sad because of the stuff that's going on. I still guess that most of the room was just full on enjoying the music.

So, instead I concentrated on Brendan's drumming for a moment, and man he throws some sweet jamming, ie. the middle quiet part in Suggestion. Apparently the cassette was flipped here as the very last part of the song fades out.

The band pushes on with rocking fury as a fiery Latin Roots and a huge Shut The Door bring down the house. I swear the guitars sound like some fighting beasts in the latter.

Once again the encores are well worth the wait, and the evening closes with a sweet, groovy and danceable instrumental version of Fell, Destroyed. Definitely a highlight!

I recommend this recording strongly for the excellent mix and fiery performances. The band was really tight due to relentless touring. Also, the banter should amuse you a little for sure...!